So You Wanna Be a NYT Newlywed: A Guide to Cracking the Wedding Announcement Code
Ah, love. It's all sunshine and roses...until you realize your dream of announcing your nuptials in the hallowed pages of the New York Times feels about as likely as winning the Powerball (while simultaneously being struck by lightning, but in a cute way). Fear not, fellow romantics with a hankering for high-brow headlines! This guide will be your compass on the high seas of NYT wedding announcement etiquette.
Step 1: Be an Early Bird (Because Apparently Everyone Else Wants to Be, Too)
This ain't your high school newspaper. The New York Times is a competitive beast, and those coveted wedding announcement slots are no exception. Plan to submit your announcement at least six weeks before your wedding date. Eight weeks is even better. Why? Because apparently, everyone and their college roommate wants to announce their eternal love in the Grey Lady's social pages. The sooner you submit, the sooner you'll (hopefully) avoid the heartbreak of rejection (although, ahem, tissues not included).
Pro Tip: Think of this as your "practice marriage proposal." If you can handle the nail-biting wait for a response here, the actual proposal should be a breeze (famous last words?).
Step 2: Craft a Killer Announcement (Because Snoozeworthy Doesn't Sell)
Just like that time you tried to impress your crush with a bad Shakespearean sonnet, a boring announcement won't win you any points with the NYT editors. Think beyond "On [date], Mr. Fancypants and Ms. Richlady were wed..." Did you two meet skydiving naked over the Amazon? Did your dog play a pivotal role in the proposal? Incorporate these quirky details!
Remember: Keep it classy. This is the New York Times, not your grandma's gossip rag (although, let's be honest, grandma would probably love a good skydiving story).
Step 3: The Photo Op (Because Apparently Symmetry is Key)
Forget those goofy selfies with your cat as your maid of honor. The New York Times has a certain...aesthetic. Think classic portraits, elegant smiles, and a distinct lack of wacky props (unless your wacky prop is, you know, a Pulitzer Prize). Professional photos are a plus, but well-lit, high-quality snapshots will work too.
Here's the weird part: The Times editors are sticklers for symmetry. That means your photo should ideally feature you and your beloved standing side-by-side, with your eyes roughly on the same level. Yes, this might involve some awkward crouching or strategically placed stools. But hey, a little discomfort for eternal matrimonial bragging rights, right?
Bonus Tip: If you're worried your photo isn't NYT-worthy, consider reaching out to a local photographer who specializes in wedding announcements.
So You Submitted... Now What?
Now you wait. And wait. And maybe check your spam folder occasionally (just in case). The New York Times is notoriously tight-lipped about the selection process. There's no guarantee your announcement will make the cut, but hey, you gave it your best shot!
Remember: Rejection is not the end of the world (or your love story). Celebrate your upcoming nuptials with loved ones, and consider sharing your announcement digitally or in your local paper.
FAQ: Wedding Announcement in the NYT - Decoded!
How to write a winning announcement? Focus on unique details, keep it classy, and maintain a formal tone.
How early should I submit my announcement? At least six weeks before your wedding, but eight is even better.
What kind of photo should I submit? A classic portrait with good lighting, where you and your partner stand side-by-side with your eyes roughly on the same level.
Is there a fee to submit an announcement? No, but there is a cost for the announcement itself, depending on its length.
How will I know if my announcement was accepted? The New York Times will contact you directly if your announcement is selected.
