Write For Us
Writers’ Guidelines
Rev. 4/20/2010
As a FAMILY publication, our mission is to provide relevant information that both serves and entertains Michiana families. We look for writers who share our vision and demonstrate a fresh, engaging writing style, have a keen sense of our readers’ interests and focus specifically on topics that matter to families in our community.
Family Matters and Topics
To provide families with resources that matter to them, articles may include family-related topics ranging from health, education, fashion, news, community development, senior living, home décor, family pets, cooking, fitness, parenting, childcare and general human interest stories. We ask writers to use local experts who are authorities in their field. To ensure we remain family-focused, every article should include a local family or parent “voice.” We also publish profiles of outstanding families and family organizations, interviews with local family parenting experts, reviews of family books and relevant snapshots of local families.
We often incorporate illustrations to accompany articles as well. If you are interested in submitting a story or illustration, we ask that you examine our previous issues and familiarize yourself with the subject matter and tone of the magazine.
Inquiries and Proposals for Articles, Columns and Illustrations
We are happy to consider any story idea or illustration that reflects the values and mission of the magazine. Please keep in mind that submissions are accepted on an individual basis, and consideration concerning appropriate articles is subject to the focus of the current issue, relevance to the publication and space available.
Submission Guidelines
Articles should be submitted electronically. Text files and documents may be sent to betsy@michianafamilymagazine.com, but we do ask that you keep attachments to a minimum. Also, please include your name, address, phone, fax number and email.
All submitted editorial content must be factual and unbiased. Inquiries often come from local businesses that wish to write a feature article on their business or industry. We do not accept articles if the content is self-promoting for the business name. This is considered advertising and/or advertorial content; therefore, space for this content must be approved by and purchased from The FAMILY Magazine. It will be listed or noted as paid advertising, not as an editorial.
Lead Time
Because we are a monthly publication, we require that any inquiries concerning future topics be submitted at least two months prior to the intended publication of the article. We suggest writers examine our editorial calendar for information concerning the proposed focus of each month’s publication. Please visit our website for more information.
Headshots and Bio
We always appreciate a personal touch. That’s why we ask writers to include a headshot or family photo along with a short bio (no longer than 30 words) to accompany their submission. For contracted feature stories, The FAMILY Magazine will commission our exclusive photographer to shoot the headshot if the writer does not have one to supply. Photo releases are required with all photos.
Length
The average story should range from 400-600 words. If a writer is contracted to write a feature, the length can be upwards to 1000 words.
Please send your inquiry to:
Betsy Tavernier, Publisher
The FAMILY Magazine
5230 Beck Drive, STE 3B
Elkhart, IN 46516
betsy@michianafamilymagazine.com
Office: 574.293.3261
Fax: 866.745.6246
If The FAMILY Magazine publishes your submission, it may also be published electronically on www.michianafamilymagazine.com or on other partnering websites.
All submissions are subject to editorial review and approval by The Family Magazine and may be edited for grammar, content and length limitations.
