We’ve all heard it: “Print is dead.” But honestly, we couldn’t disagree more. In a world overflowing with screens and scrolls, print still has the power to stop people in their tracks when it’s done right.
When our friends at Marywood University came to us looking to refresh their admissions materials, they didn’t just want something informative. They wanted something that future students would feel, something that would capture the spirit of Marywood and make a lasting impression in the real world.
That’s exactly the kind of project we love, because creating something beautiful on paper takes more than good design. It takes a team that truly understands how creativity, photography, and printing all work together.
Starting With the Story
Like any good project, we started with the message. What did we want students to think, feel, and remember after flipping through these pages? This wasn’t just about writing copy, it was about shaping a tone and story that spoke directly to high school seniors dreaming about what’s next.
Once the story felt right, we built out a wireframe. Basically, a blueprint for how content and visuals would flow. Because we know print inside and out, we thought ahead about how text and images would live together on the page: where the reader’s eye would go first, how colors would reproduce, and how the layout would feel once it was printed, not just on a screen.
Bringing the Vision to Life
Next up: photos. We carefully planned every shot to match the story, from the collaboration in classrooms to the calm campus green. During the shoot, our design and photo teams worked side by side, updating the layout in real time so we could literally see the final piece coming together.
That kind of collaboration makes all the difference for our print pieces. It’s what happens when designers, writers, and photographers work with the print finish in mind from the very start. Every decision (lighting, color, composition) was made to look its absolute best once it hit the press.
Print Proofs & Press Checks (the fun part!)
Once the design was finalized, we didn’t just hit “send” and walk away. We partnered closely with one of our favorite local printers to review press proofs, check colors, and make sure every little detail was perfect.
Since we’ve spent years working directly with our print partners, our team has the experience to translate creative vision into real-world feeling. We help select paper stock, special coatings, die cuts; basically, all the stuff that can take a project from “nice” to “wow.” And by staying hands-on during production, we make sure the final piece looks exactly how it’s meant to.
The Finished Piece
The end result is a premium, tactile publication complete with die cuts, spot gloss, and a soft-touch matte coating that practically begs to be picked up. It’s a piece that doesn’t just tell Marywood’s story, but also makes you feel it. And with more than 20,000 copies heading out to future Pacers, we’re confident it’s leaving an impression that lasts.
Why We’ll Always Love Print
Sure, digital is fast, flashy, and everywhere, but print connects on another level. It slows you down just long enough to make something memorable. From the very first brainstorm to the final press check, our team brings years of experience with print to every project. That’s what ensures you get a piece that looks beautiful, feels intentional, and tells your story perfectly.
So, is print dead? Not even close. When done right, it’s one of the most powerful tools your brand can use to stand out. We can’t wait to help you bring your next big idea to life on paper.
