Tell me about profiles please

BTMama

I am in the application phase but want to know more about what to expect when creating a profile. Is this like a scrapbook? Include photos? I don't have tons of info yet since we aren't in that phase. All I basically know is there will be a letter to the birth mother and info about our relationship and how we feel about each other but don't know what else. Do I create multiple copies? What else might I expect? Thanks!!!

silliestbunny

Hi-

I've found that the best source of information is your agency.   Some agencies have strict requirements; other agencies give you more freedom. 
It's definitely not a standard for profiles. 

Since you are thinking about it, start collecting photos.  Many advise not to use wedding photos (we've used one).  I didn't expect that this would be a chore but it took some time to go through them, pull the best, scan them if it wasnt in a digital file.  It's a good busy-project. 

Multiple copies....I can only speak for my experience.  We make multiple copies at any given time.  This was an expence, albeit small in the large picture, that I'd not anticipated.  Our first printing was $300. 

HTH

Dr.Loretta

Ditto silliestbunny--it varies a bit by agency. Our profile consists of a single page front and back, with the front including a short letter and the back a lot of pictures. Our SW told us to collect around 15. They also have a time limit--no pictures older than 3 years old. We will also be doing a video as part of our profile package.

So your agency will be a great resource for you, and should walk you through the process.

Good luck!

TiffanyBlue927

I created mine on PowerPoint, and was able to reproduce multiple copies on Shutterfly. PM me if you'd like the link to my shutterfly book. Mine was about 20 pages long and included pics of us thru the years as a couple, info on what we like to do, pics of our house and pets and family, a little about our jobs and our general likes and dislikes.It took me about 3 months from start to finish, so it's a good idea to start collecting pics and get ideas now. I looked at profile design services online and got some beginning ideas there. "Our Chosen Child" was a site I liked a lot.

I am going to be setting up my own design business at some point, but my daughter is due any minute now, so I have been preoccupied a bit! Let me know if you need help down the road!!

ColoRxGirl

I also did our book on Shutterfly, but I used their design tools.  I uploaded a bunch of pictures of us, family, the dog, etc., then used the backgrounds and fonts to lay it out.  I knew we needed about 10 copies total, so I purchased them using the bulk discount Shutterfly offers.  They also have periodic sales that make the books much more affordable.

I would also be happy to send you a link to our book so you can get an idea of what a finished product looks like.  Just PM your e-mail addy to me.