Use these examples as starting points. The strongest final message usually includes one detail that is specific to the person, couple or family.
1. Define the purpose
Decide who will receive the book and which moment it preserves.
Choose a clear start and end point, such as an announcement, event or remembrance period.
Write one sentence describing what belongs in the book—and what does not.
2. Collect from the right sources
Use manual entry for a small number of important messages.
Upload supported PDFs when messages have already been compiled.
Use screenshots when the visual source is important or no direct import is available.
Use eligible social imports only for accounts and content you are authorised to access.
3. Select rather than copy everything
Keep messages that add warmth, context, a memory or a distinct voice.
Remove obvious duplicates, accidental replies and unrelated conversation.
Retain a mixture of short reactions and longer contributions.
Ask permission before including sensitive or private material.
4. Review extracted text carefully
Check names, emojis, apostrophes and line breaks.
Confirm the author and message have not been reversed.
Correct extraction errors without rewriting the contributor’s personality.
Review the final page preview, not only the source list.
A useful order for the finished book
Start with a cover and short introduction. Then arrange the messages chronologically, by contributor group, or by theme. Chronological order works well for announcements; thematic sections often work better for memorials, retirement and longer projects.
Privacy and permission
Being able to see a comment does not automatically mean it should be printed. Consider the contributor’s expectations, the privacy of the original post and whether the book will be shared beyond the intended recipient. Avoid including contact details, private account information or material unrelated to the occasion.
Quality control before checkout
- Read every page at normal zoom and enlarged zoom.
- Check that names remain attached to the correct messages.
- Look for duplicated paragraphs and missing characters.
- Confirm the cover crop and title.
- Ask one other trusted person to proofread sensitive projects.