The Press Release

Press releases can be an amazing way to gain free promotion for your event and the print-media industry is very welcoming to accepting them.  Ensure you follow proper press release formatting including an intriguing heading and include statistics or information in your article that readers would find valuable. Keep in mind that press releases are printed based on availability and the discretion of the publication so they typically need lots of lead time.

Wondering what information you need to include? Here’s a quick checklist:

1. Event date, location (with address) and time. This sounds like a no-brainer, but it can sometimes be easy to forget the simple things!
2. How to RSVP. Don’t leave your guests wondering if or when they need to RSVP or purchase tickets.
3. What will attendees benefit from at the event? Be sure to communicate why the event is taking place and how guests will benefit.
4. Quote. Just when you think the release is sounded too formal, collect a quote from one of your event stakeholders. This could be from a staff members, client, donor or perhaps a local celebrity. Allow the quote to set the tone for your release and be sure to keep it positive.
5. Why is the event newsworthy. This is one of the most important pieces to include. The only reason a local media medium will print your event information is because they think there is something newsworthy to share. So keep it interesting, information, educational and exciting.