A family history in seven steps

Step 1 → Ambition & initial exploration

In a personal meeting we explore your background, your story and your wishes. We discuss whether the book is intended as private family heritage, a representative corporate gift or a public release. We also consider the tone and presentation, intimate, narrative, academic or familial.

We then make an initial estimate of scope, print run, budget and schedule.

From this first phase both the author and the designer are involved, so text, images and layout are developed in alignment from the outset.

Step 2 → Concept & Narrative

Based on your wishes we develop a clear editorial and visual concept for the book. We choose the narrative approach, for example chronological, thematic, by generation, or organised around houses, businesses or key moments.

We prepare a provisional chapter outline and determine the balance between historical context, personal stories, anecdotes and legends, imagery, layout, typography, paper choice and any special binding or finishing. Now that the scope is more concrete, the budget, a possible mock‑up and the schedule are further developed and agreed with you.

Step 3 → Research & Sources

Next we gather and organise the material on which the book will be based. This includes historical (genealogical) research in relevant archives and publications, supplemented by conversations and interviews with those involved or their descendants.

An initial selection of documents, photographs and any objects that support the story is presented to you.

This produces a carefully documented foundation in which factual accuracy and personal memories reinforce one another. From there we can work purposefully towards the text and design.

Step 4 → Writing the manuscript

Based on the research, the material is crafted into a readable, coherent narrative.

Chapter by chapter we develop a style that honours both historical accuracy and the personal tone you envisage.

You will receive draft chapters for your feedback so we can adjust tone, emphasis and any sensitivities in good time.

All the while, we work on image editing in parallel with the text so text and design develop in tandem.

Step 5 → Editing & authorisation

The complete manuscript is carefully edited for style, clarity and consistency without losing the story’s voice.

We re-check facts, dates and names and refine formulations.

You (and any reviewers within the family and/or organisation) receive the text and proposed imagery for authorisation so you can verify and approve the substantive details.

Step 6 → Final design

After content approval we finalise the design, image processing, layout and typesetting, refining the publication down to the smallest detail.

Following this last revision you will receive a final proof of the entire book, where content, design and material choices come together.

After the final corrections have been made, the book is ready for printing.

Step 7 → Print production & supervision
After your final approval we prepare the book for printing and binding.
You can rely on our supervision throughout these production stages, with a critical eye for optimal quality and finish.
When the books are ready we can, if desired, handle packing and distribution to your family and contacts, and to retailers if it is a public release.

Well-crafted heritage publications are a powerful legacy: they connect generations, strengthen identity and preserve untold stories.