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What Makes a Good Press Release?

What Makes a Good Press Release?


Alison Hargreaves
Alison Hargreaves Updated:
4th of July 2022

Where do I start?

Getting acknowledged by a national title can be difficult, but with a little bit of know-how, you can get the biggest names in the industry shouting about your business. Your story needs to be "news" and as our awards are unique in celebrating excellence in customer care, this may give them the angle they need.

What makes a good press release?

  • The best press releases have a big, attention-grabbing title. Try to use a friendly, conversational tone and a eye catching image at the top.
  • Go easy on text! Press releases with over 500 words are likely to be ignored. Don't forget to spell check!
  • Treat press releases like a CV. Keep it as simple as possible and make sure that the essentials are in order of priority. Have a short introduction with an image, followed by either bullet points or a brief overview, then include the website at the end.
  • Make sure that your subject title is as exciting and catchy as possible to encourage the Editor to open it.

My press release is ready! Now what?

  • Research the publication – Is it suitable? Who is the best person to contact? How can your product or company contribute?
  • Know who you're speaking to! Writing generic emails to multiple recipients makes you look lazy and could end up in junk mail folders. Try to make your email as personal as possible and do your research on who you're speaking to and whether they're the right person to contact. You don't want to be emailing somebody who no longer works at that publication! 
  • Call ahead. Take the time to call first, then submit your email or send your post. If you hear nothing, follow up with another call.

 

Alison Hargreaves

About the author


Alison Hargreaves

Alison founded Guides for Brides in 1995 and has been advising brides and businesses ever since. She has an unrivalled knowledge of the wedding industry and is part of an international network of wedding professionals and entrepreneurs. Alison frequently appears on podcasts and expert panels as well as judging various wedding awards.

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