Assisted vs. Commissioned Memoirs

We handle two types of memoir projects and everything in between. If you have already written your memoir and want us to help with the editorial, design, and production steps, we call this an Assisted Memoir. If you would like us interview you or your loved one to create the text of a memoir and then create the printed book, this is a Commissioned Memoir. We work closely with you at all stages of production, from interviewing to editing to printing. Here is the abbreviated process:

Assisted Memoir:  You send us your written manuscript, and we edit at the level you wish, always maintaining the authenticity of the author's voice. You have full editorial control.

Commissioned or As-Told-To Memoir:  We interview you, transcribe the interviews, distill text from the transcripts, and edit for readability and clarity. We maintain your voice and edit sensitively so that your memoir reads well, provides the information you want, yet reflects you in a completely authentic way. Authenticity is important to us and we do not embellish your stories. Family members often say that their relative's commissioned memoir "sounds" just like him or her.

For both types of memoirs, we then proceed to the next step, design and formatting, adding your photographs, captions, and supplementary materials; e.g., genealogy charts, family documents, letters, translated materials, or custom maps. The galleys (printed drafts) flow back and forth between you and us for your revisions and approval, right up until the files go to print. We want you to feel satisfied and safe in the knowledge that the all-important corrections have been made, whether it is the name of an aunt, the acknowledgment of a valued employee, or your grandson's birthday.

Then we educate you about optimal printing and binding options for your needs. We work hard to narrow down the dizzying array of variables in print/bind technologies, materials for the cover stock and interior papers, and costs. Once you make a decision, your books are printed and bound to your specifications and delivered to your doorstep. Copyright is yours.

You are unique and so is your memoir.