Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding announcements in The New York Times have a long history, dating back to the paper's debut issue in 1851. Over the years, the section has evolved to include couples with diverse backgrounds and orientations. Anyone can submit a wedding announcement online, and it's recommended to do so at least six weeks before the wedding date. The process is simple, and the announcements are published in the Sunday Styles section of the New York and Northeast editions. To increase your chances of being selected, it's important to brag about any accomplishments, unique aspects of your wedding, and philanthropic work. If you know someone who works at the New York Times, reaching out to them can also improve your chances.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Submission deadline | At least six weeks before the wedding |
| Submission method | Online application |
| Publication day | Sunday |
| Publication editions | New York and Northeast |
| Publication radius | 30 miles of Manhattan in print; nationwide online |
| Publication guarantee | No |
| Publication fee | None |
| Focus | The day the couple is to legally marry |
| Content | Unique nuptials, name-dropping, and accomplishments |
| Contact | Weddings department |
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What You'll Learn
Submit at least six weeks before the wedding
The New York Times has a few guidelines for couples looking to submit their wedding announcement for publication. One of the most important things to keep in mind is timing. The newspaper recommends submitting your request at least six weeks before the wedding. This lead time allows for the announcement to be written, fact-checked, and edited according to the Times's editorial standards.
While the Times sometimes considers late submissions, they give preference to those received at least six weeks in advance. So, to increase the chances of your announcement being published, it's best to adhere to this deadline. The announcement should include the full names of the couple, the date and time of the wedding, their addresses, schooling, and occupations. It should also include the name, title, and affiliation of the person who will legally sign the official certificate.
In addition to the basic information, the Times may also request a formal portrait of the couple. This photograph must be in JPEG format with a width and height of at least 3000 pixels, and a file size between 3MB and 12MB. By providing this information and materials in a timely manner, couples can ensure that their wedding announcement is considered for publication in the Times's prestigious Weddings/Celebrations pages or online at nytimes.com/weddings.
To further increase the chances of your announcement being selected, consider including a narrative about how the couple met, how their relationship progressed, and how they arrived at the decision to get married. This additional context can make your submission stand out and provide a more compelling story for the readers of the Times. So, while the six-week lead time is crucial, taking the time to craft a well-written and comprehensive announcement is also essential.
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Include all accomplishments
When it comes to The New York Times wedding announcements, there is no room for humility. Any and all accomplishments that you or your family have received should be shared. If your relative is a celebrity chef, drop their name. If your future spouse received a prestigious degree, mention it. If you or your partner is an Ivy League graduate, you're pretty much a shoo-in. The New York Times also loves to hear about philanthropic work.
The Times has a long history of featuring wedding announcements, dating back to its debut issue on September 18, 1851, when it proclaimed the union of Sarah Mullett and John Grant, both from prominent families. For over a century, the section remained the domain of privileged society figures. That began to change in 1992 with the introduction of the Vows column, which expanded to include people with more diversity in sexual orientation, race, socioeconomic background, and age.
Today, anyone can submit an application online, and the cost of a wedding announcement can vary significantly depending on the publication's size, location, and length. It is recommended to submit your application early, at least six weeks before your wedding date, but two months prior gives you a bigger timeline to be timely selected and avoids the busy planning period closer to the wedding. If you have connections to someone who works at The New York Times, it certainly can't hurt to reach out and inquire about any steps you can take to increase your chances of being selected.
Remember to include all the essential details in your announcement, such as the couple's names, the wedding date, location, and any special arrangements like a reception. Mentioning the names of the parents can also be appropriate, and adding a personal touch, like how the couple met, can make your announcement stand out.
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Feature unique nuptials
Wedding announcements in The New York Times date back to the debut issue of the newspaper on September 18, 1851, when it featured a single line announcing the marriage of Sarah Mullett and John Grant, who were both from prominent families. For over a century, the section was reserved for privileged society figures, but this changed in 1992 when the first Vows column was introduced, featuring couples with diverse sexual orientations, races, socioeconomic backgrounds, and ages.
Share Your Story
The Vows column in The New York Times features couples from all walks of life and tells the story of "how couples got from dating to 'I Do.'" Share your unique love story, including how you met, any challenges you faced, and what makes your relationship special. Be authentic and let your personalities shine through.
Highlight Your Values
Couples often incorporate their values into their wedding celebrations. For example, some couples emphasize health and mindfulness, while others may prioritize political or social causes. If you have a unique theme or incorporate your values into your wedding, consider including this in your submission.
Include Personal Details
The New York Times often features reader-submitted stories of no more than 100 words in their Modern Love in Miniature section. These stories can be about how you met, a memorable moment from your relationship, or a unique aspect of your wedding. Include personal and heartfelt details that will resonate with readers.
Provide Visuals
Visual elements can enhance your submission. Consider including photographs, especially if you have a unique wedding theme or style. If you're comfortable, you might also share a video or audio clip that captures the essence of your relationship or wedding.
Think Outside the Registry
While traditional wedding registries are common, some couples prefer unique alternatives. For example, you could create a registry with small, unique, or personalized items from sites like Etsy. You could also opt for experiences or subscriptions, such as travel-related gifts, that align with your interests.
Embrace Creativity
If you're looking for a memorable way to commemorate your wedding, consider a custom illustration or portrait. This could be a fun addition to your submission, especially if it captures your unique style or includes personal details.
Remember, The New York Times receives numerous submissions, so focus on what makes your wedding and your love story stand out. Be authentic, creative, and thoughtful in your approach, and don't be afraid to showcase your unique personalities.
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Include a photo
The New York Times has strict requirements for wedding photographs. The traditional photographs are a formal portrait of the bride and groom, as well as a photo of the bride alone. The Times has recently expanded the types of images that may be included, such as full-length images of the bride in her wedding gown and informal pictures of the couple in attractive settings. The couple must be "neatly dressed", and the images should be of professional quality. For prints, 5x7 or 8x10 are the preferred sizes, and the photos should be sent via private courier or guaranteed overnight delivery. The photographer should be credited, and pictures will not be returned. Images can also be submitted electronically. Photos of the couple should be horizontal, with heads close together and eyebrows on the same level.
It's important to note that the Times has specific style and formatting guidelines that must be followed when submitting your announcement. While enthusiasm and creativity are encouraged, it's essential to avoid common pitfalls such as excessive length, overly personal details, and using jargon or unfamiliar language. The announcement should be well-written, with a formal, engaging, and conversational tone. Break your announcement into paragraphs and use clear headings to structure the content. Additionally, proofread your announcement thoroughly to ensure it adheres to the Times' standards.
The Times receives numerous submissions, so it's important to make your announcement stand out. Focus on storytelling by highlighting how the couple met, their shared interests, and any obstacles they overcame together. Consider the tone and voice of the announcement, ensuring it reflects the couple's personality. Don't forget to include any notable achievements or contributions the couple has made to their community or society.
Submitting your wedding announcement to the New York Times is a significant milestone and a time-honored tradition. It provides a platform to share your joy with loved ones and elevates your union to a broader audience. The exposure can open doors and create networking opportunities, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
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Network with NYT staff
While there is no direct mention of networking with NYT staff in the context of wedding announcements, there are a few ways to increase your chances of getting your announcement published and potentially opening doors to networking opportunities. Here are some instructive tips to help you navigate the process and possibly connect with NYT staff:
- Understand the History and Format: Wedding announcements in the New York Times have a long history, dating back to the debut issue of the newspaper in 1851. Initially, they were simple notifications in the classified section. Today, they have evolved into elaborate segments with narratives, photographs, and recognition for the couple. Understanding this evolution shows your appreciation for this cherished tradition.
- Timing and Submission Process: The New York Times has a specific submission process for wedding announcements. Navigate to their website and locate the "Weddings & Celebrations" section. There, you'll find a submission form requesting essential details such as the couple's names, wedding date and location, and a captivating description of their love story. It's recommended to submit your announcement as soon as possible after the wedding to ensure timely publication, typically within three to six months.
- Craft a Compelling Story: Focus on storytelling by highlighting how the couple met, their shared interests, and any unique obstacles they overcame. Use an engaging and conversational yet formal tone. Break your announcement into paragraphs with clear headings. Proofread your submission thoroughly to ensure it aligns with the NYT's style and formatting guidelines.
- Stand Out from the Crowd: The NYT receives numerous submissions, so it's crucial to make your announcement stand out. Analyze previously published announcements to understand what makes a story captivating and memorable. Enthusiasm and creativity are encouraged, but avoid common pitfalls. By submitting a well-crafted and unique announcement, you increase the chances of your story resonating with NYT staff and potentially opening doors for further networking.
- Explore Other Sections: In addition to the "Weddings & Celebrations" section, the NYT also features reader-submitted stories of no more than 100 words in the "Modern Love" section. Consider submitting a shorter, heartfelt story about your relationship, which could lead to further engagement and networking opportunities with NYT staff.
By following these steps and understanding the process, you can increase your chances of a successful submission and potentially create opportunities to network with NYT staff. Remember, the key is to craft a compelling announcement that showcases your unique love story and aligns with the style and tone of the New York Times.
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Frequently asked questions
The New York Times requests that you submit your wedding announcement at least six weeks before your wedding date. However, submitting two months prior is ideal as it gives you a bigger window to be selected without being too close to your wedding day.
Any and all accomplishments that you or your family have achieved should be included in your submission. If your family member is a celebrity or you or your partner are an Ivy League graduate, be sure to mention it. Philanthropic work is also viewed favourably by the Times. If your wedding has a unique theme or location, be sure to include this in your submission.
Humbleness! There's no room for it when it comes to New York Times wedding announcements.
Wedding items appear on Sundays in the New York and Northeast editions of the New York Times. They are also published online and feature couples from around the country.
Wedding announcements in the New York Times were traditionally the purview of privileged society figures. However, this has changed in recent years to include people with more diversity in sexual orientation, race, socioeconomic background, and age.
