How to Get a Wedding Announcement in “The New York Times,” According to the Editor

If you’ve ever flipped through the "Vows" section of The New York Times on a lazy Sunday morning and wondered if your own wedding could end up in the paper of record one day, you’re not alone. Many couples dream of seeing their love story featured in this prestigious publication, but the process can be daunting. Fortunately, Charanna Alexander, the Weddings editor at The New York Times, has shared her insights into how to get a wedding announcement published in the esteemed publication.

First and foremost, timing is crucial. The Times treats wedding announcements like any other news, requiring a minimum lead time of six to eight weeks before the wedding day. This means that couples should submit their stories well in advance, ideally with some extra time to spare. Submitting earlier than the eight-week window may not hurt your chances, but it’s essential to meet the lead time requirement.

Competition for a spot in the "Vows" section is stiff and global. During the busy season from April through September, upwards of 50 couples a day submit their love stories in hopes of being chosen. While many submissions come from the New York tri-state area, other cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta also over-index. Alexander acknowledges the high competition, but she emphasizes that it’s not just about pedigree and notoriety anymore.

In recent years, Alexander has worked to expand the paper’s parameters for wedding announcements, reflecting New York’s diverse and inclusive nature. The traditional announcements have transformed into what the Times now calls "Mini-Vows," which are brief encapsulations of a couple’s journey to find love and marry. These new announcements focus more on the couple’s personal story and experiences rather than just their social status or family background.

This shift in focus means that couples from all walks of life have a chance at seeing their story featured in the "Vows" section. While it’s still true that weddings of well-known figures or those with significant community impact are more likely to be chosen, the door is now open to a wider range of couples.

To increase your chances of getting published, Alexander advises couples to craft a compelling and unique story that showcases their love and journey. Highlighting the couple’s personal experiences, such as how they met, their relationship milestones, and the significance of the wedding day, can make a strong impression on the editorial team.

In addition to a well-written story, it’s important to include high-quality photographs that tell the couple’s story visually. The Times editors often consider the visual aspect when selecting announcements, so ensuring that your photos are professional and captivating can help your submission stand out.

Ultimately, getting a wedding announcement in The New York Times requires careful planning, a compelling story, and a bit of luck. With the right approach and dedication, however, any couple can have their love story told in the pages of one of the world’s most respected newspapers. As Alexander reminds us, the "Vows" section is a historical gem that continues to grow and evolve, reflecting the diverse and inclusive spirit of New York City and the couples who call it home.