Create a Keepsake, Not Just an Insert: Why 2-Page Guides Are a Win-Win for Publishers and Advertisers

Looking for a fresh way to add value to your print publication and bring in premium advertisers? A beautifully designed 2-page insert might be the answer.

These mini guides aren’t just ads. They feel like something readers actually want to keep. When done well, they become a valuable piece of information that places sponsors as trusted community leaders. The result? Advertisers love being part of it… and are willing to pay for the visibility.

The Power of “Premium Association”

When a local business sponsors something like a “Top Doctors” guide or “Holiday Gift List,” they’re not just paying for space; they’re aligning themselves with content that feels curated, useful, and upscale. That kind of brand halo is hard to beat.

Here are a few proven formats that attract advertisers fast:

Example Themes That Sell Themselves

  • Top Doctors & Health Pros

    • Health practices and specialists will jump at this for credibility and exposure.

  • Holiday Luxe Gift Guide

    • Perfect for jewelry shops, boutiques, salons, and specialty retailers.

  • Weekend Getaways

    • Hotels, airlines, and resorts love being featured in local mini travel guides.

  • Best Eats & Drinks Right Now

    • A dining hot list is always a hit with restaurants, breweries, and beverage brands.

How to Format Your Insert for Maximum Impact

There are several ways to structure these two-page spreads depending on the look you’re after:

Two-Sided Guide

  • Front side: eye-catching design, map, checklist, or featured picks.

  • Back side: clean sponsor showcase with logos or ads.

“Sponsored By” Banners

  • A strong branded strip across the top or bottom to reinforce who’s supporting the guide.

Co-Branded Content

  • For high-end sponsors (like an auto dealer), integrate their message directly into the layout with a “Presented by…” feel.

Our Favorite Combo (And Advertisers Love It Too)

One of the most effective styles we’ve seen is a seasonal Insider’s Guide, something like:

“Fall Insider’s Guide to Food, Fun & Local Finds”

Pair a stylish layout (think custom illustrations) with real utility: events, dining recs, shopping spots, maybe even a quick calendar. Readers keep it. Sponsors get long-lasting exposure. It’s a premium piece everyone wins with.

Ready to Create One for Your Publication?

At Progress Printing Plus, we can help you design and print a 2-page insert that not only looks stunning but also attracts top-tier sponsor interest. If you’re looking for a creative way to generate revenue while giving readers something they’ll actually use, let’s talk ideas!

Kristi Rinck