Get started

Advertiser Resources

Everything you need to create effective print advertising

Download Resources

📄

2025 Rate Sheet

Complete pricing for all ad sizes, including NGN, TCH, and combo rates

Download PDF
📐

Ad Specifications Guide

Technical specs, dimensions, file formats, and production guidelines

Download PDF
🎨

Design Templates

Pre-sized templates for InDesign, Illustrator, and PowerPoint

Download ZIP
📅

2025 Editorial Calendar

Plan your advertising around special sections and holiday issues

Download PDF
✏️

Ad Design Checklist

Quick reference guide to ensure your ad meets all requirements

Download PDF
📝

Advertising Contract

Template for multi-week advertising agreements and contracts

Download PDF

Design Best Practices

Layout & Composition

  • White Space: Don't cram everything in. Leave breathing room around text and images.
  • Hierarchy: Use size and weight to guide the reader's eye to the most important information first.
  • Alignment: Keep elements aligned to create a clean, professional look.
  • Balance: Distribute visual weight evenly across the ad.

Typography

  • Readability: Use fonts that are easy to read. Avoid decorative fonts for body text.
  • Size: Minimum 8pt for body text, 18pt+ for headlines.
  • Limit Fonts: Use no more than 2-3 font families per ad.
  • Contrast: Ensure text has strong contrast against background.

Images & Photos

  • Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI for all images. Low-res images look blurry in print.
  • Quality: Use professional photos when possible. Avoid pixelated or stretched images.
  • Relevance: Images should support your message, not just fill space.
  • Focus: Use one strong image rather than multiple weak ones.

Color

  • Color Ads: Additional $25 per insertion. Worth it for impact.
  • CMYK Mode: Design in CMYK color mode, not RGB.
  • Black & White: Test your color ad in grayscale to ensure it still works.
  • Brand Colors: Use your business's brand colors consistently.

Messaging

  • Clear Headline: State your main benefit or offer immediately.
  • Single Focus: Promote one product, service, or offer per ad.
  • Call to Action: Tell readers exactly what to do next.
  • Contact Info: Include phone, address, or website prominently.

Technical Requirements

  • File Formats: PDF preferred. Also accept JPG, PNG, AI, InDesign.
  • Bleeds: Add 0.125" bleed if your design extends to edge.
  • Fonts: Embed all fonts or convert text to outlines.
  • Deadline: Submit by Friday 4pm for Wednesday publication.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌

Low-Resolution Images

Images pulled from websites are usually 72 DPI and will look blurry in print. Always use high-resolution 300 DPI images.

❌

Too Much Information

Trying to say everything in one ad overwhelms readers. Focus on one message or offer per ad.

❌

Tiny Text

If readers need a magnifying glass, they'll skip your ad. Keep body text at least 8pt, preferably 10pt+.

❌

No Call to Action

Don't assume readers know what to do. Tell them: "Call today," "Visit our store," "Mention this ad."

❌

Poor Color Choices

Light text on light backgrounds or dark on dark is hard to read. Ensure strong contrast for readability.

❌

Missing Contact Info

You'd be surprised how often ads forget to include a phone number, address, or website. Double-check!

Professional Design Services

Don't have design software or experience? We can help.

Basic Design

Starting at $50

  • Simple text layout
  • Your logo placement
  • Basic formatting
  • Contact information
  • One round of revisions
Request Quote
Most Popular

Custom Design

Starting at $150

  • Professional layout
  • Custom graphics
  • Photo editing/enhancement
  • Eye-catching headlines
  • Multiple concepts
  • Two rounds of revisions
Request Quote

Campaign Package

Starting at $400

  • Multi-week campaign
  • 4+ ad designs
  • Consistent branding
  • Strategic messaging
  • Performance tracking
  • Unlimited revisions
Request Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

What file format should I submit?

PDF is preferred because it preserves fonts, colors, and layout exactly as designed. We also accept high-resolution JPG/PNG (300 DPI), Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Microsoft Word/Publisher files.

Can I design my ad in Microsoft Word?

Yes, but Word isn't ideal for print design. If you use Word, export as PDF and ensure images are high resolution (300 DPI). For best results, use design software like InDesign, Illustrator, or hire our design team.

How do I know if my images are high enough resolution?

Images should be 300 DPI at the size they'll print. If you're downloading from your website, they're probably only 72 DPI. Use original photos from your camera or phone, or purchase stock photos.

Do you offer design services?

Yes! We offer three tiers: Basic Design ($50+), Custom Design ($150+), and Campaign Packages ($400+). Contact us to discuss your needs and get a quote.

Can you help me write my ad copy?

Absolutely. Our design services include copywriting assistance. We'll help craft a message that resonates with Union County readers.

How far in advance should I submit my ad?

Deadline is Friday at 4pm for Wednesday publication. However, we recommend submitting earlier if possible, especially for complex ads or if you need design assistance.

Need Help With Your Ad?

Our team is here to ensure your advertising succeeds

Submit Your Ad Get Design Help