FAQ’s for yearbook senior tribute ads –

What will my senior remember most about his/her yearbook ad?
It’s all about the message! A meaningful message written from the heart about your own senior and focused on your personal feelings about him/her will be the most memorable. Keepsake memories are made from a personal message, along with quality imagery … rather than size or quantity of photos.

How can I give my senior an ad that will look better than the school’s yearbook ad templates?
The simple answer is: Good design! We find the most effective and timeless ads communicate a senior’s unique personality in their senior year.

This is so emotional, I’m having a terrible time writing a special message. Help!
Follow your heart. What are unique and special things about your senior’s personality and in his/her life? Writing about that is what will make your message meaningful!

Why do your sample ads have generic wording?
We post sample ads primarily for design layouts. Each meaningful message will depend on what you want to say to your senior.

How long should my message be?
For your Breakaway ad, we suggest 4-6 short sentences – with one general topic per sentence.

Tips & Suggestions for a meaningful ad message
1- We suggest handwriting on the old-fashioned 3×5 index cards to capture your main points. Then start condensing. (see example below)
2-Salutation – use either given name … or better, family pet name or nickname. The seniors love this, as long as it’s not horribly embarrassing.
3 – Personality description – Words such as generous, loving, caring, funny, serious, determined, clever, independent, compassionate … Also consider listing things they love (or don’t love), such as Mountain Dew, or
4- A family memory – such as a trip, activity, family gathering, birthday, significant event …
5 – Something currently significant or something at which they excel  – such as making the pep squad or tennis team, musical or theater performance, sport, church accomplishment (baptism, youth leader), community service, a favorite school subject …
6 – A specific hope/wish for future – college, fulfillment, family, profession.
7 – Words of wisdom/advice 

Sample process – About Sophie
1 – Salutation – family nickname: Schmoogie.
2 – Personality – Spirited, independent, confident, caring, determined
3 –  Family memory – Family camping trip to Yosemite, 9 people in a small cabin
4 – Something currently significant – Relationship with beloved horse
5 – Hope for future – Success in college and becoming a veterinarian
7 – Words of wisdom/advice – Eat your vegetables or “Remember to keep on swimming” (family advice when things get challenging – reference to Disney’s “Nemo”)

Finished message –
To our Schmoogie – How proud we are watching you grow into a spirited, independent, confident and determined young woman. Remember on our camping trip to Yosemite when you exercised your independence by picking up your bedding from our crowded cabin and slept out on the porch? Even now when we watch you and your horse Miles ride the Coto trails, we know with your confidence you will fulfill your dream of being a veterinarian.  Just remember to keep on swimming. We love you so much! ~ Mom & Daddy

Hope that helps. And remember, we are here to help you custom design the perfect yearbook ad for your senior!

Want an amazing, custom personalized senior yearbook tribute/ad? Just contact Breakaway (nancy@breakaway-grads.com) for link to the gallery of all Breakaway’s yearbook ad/tribute samples.