Holly Jolly Holidays Spreads: A Three-Step Guide

Have you ever had an idea, but not known where to start? You’re not alone! That’s why Walsworth developed Coverage Starters – a series that highlights spreads schools have created on specific topics. We’ll explore how schools are covering different topics so you can find inspiration and brainstorm your own unique twist. You’ll be able to view spreads or download a zip file of them at the end of this blog. Our first topic in this new series is holiday-themed spreads.

Your student body is more than the clubs they are a part of and the teams they participate in. Students share holiday traditions with their family and friends, and it’s your job as the yearbook staff to showcase your school’s stories. Because most of your holiday fun will happen outside of the classroom, there are ways to prioritize coverage while still enjoying the holidays.

1. Use that Free Time

We all know the last week before winter break is dedicated to finals. What do students do the rest of the school day? Consider your spirit weeks, community outreach events and other activities your school is doing and cash in. Get your interviews, take some posed and unposed photos and show your school’s holiday spirit. Just be sure to have a hall pass! 

2. Yearbook Snap 

Let’s face it: getting coverage of someone else’s family dinner or White Elephant is probably not in the cards for your staff, nor does it need to be. Yearbook Snap is a great resource to advertise during the holidays. Push for your community to upload their holiday photos for a chance to be featured in the yearbook. Learn more about the features and functionality of this app here. 

3. Social Media 

Using IG stories, Snapchat and Facebook are great avenues for reaching students when they are snuggled up on the couch, watching Christmas movies their parents are forcing them to watch. Trust us, they are on their phone. Ask students questions that can be used in mod packages and features, then follow up through direct messaging.

• What are your favorite holiday traditions?
• What is the #1 gift of the season?
• What are your travel plans? Do you host or vacation?
• What is your favorite holiday treat? 
• What is the best Christmas song?

Finding those creative stories over the holidays can help your yearbook stand out this school year while also practicing effective coverage. You’ll also be able to feature students who might not be as involved at school, increasing your student coverage and likely your sales as a result. The more students are in the yearbook, the more they will want to buy it. Below are some great examples of holiday spreads that stood out to us. Download the Zip file of all the spreads here.  Happy Holidays, yearbookers!