What’s it like to create an heirloom book together? Let some folks with experience tell you...

When I’m not interviewing clients or working directly with families to curate their photos and mementos, I can usually be found at my computer editing and designing your heirloom books.

I get goosebumps when I open a letter or an email from a grateful client. It’s rare that they just say “thanks” and leave it at that. Many wax poetic about the experience and their awe upon receiving the finished book. They almost always express surprise at just how much they actually enjoyed the process of making their book (I try to convey that to prospective clients, but it’s hard to put into words—and why should they trust me, after all, who is trying to sell them a product…?).

Well, let me say that sales is not my thing. I founded Modern Heirloom Books to help people preserve their stories, and sure, it is my livelihood, but it’s my passion first and foremost. So if we’re not a good fit, or you don’t want to move forward, or simply can’t afford to—well, I am not going to give you the hard sell. I may feel bad, I may wish we could have worked together, but it’s got to be a good fit (and timing is so important!).

When I do work with someone, we form a bond—honestly, it’s inevitable. Once trust is established and the stories begin flowing, the bond is initiated. When editing and deeper questions ensue, the bond deepens. And by the end of the process, when a book is almost finished and the excitement is palpable, the bond is even more firmly cemented. How blessed I feel to have a “job” that provides such a sense of connection and meaning.

I’ve been told that I don’t share testimonials from my clients enough. Maybe it’s due partly to a humble nature, perhaps it’s a discomfort with being bold…but I am taking a page from some special fellow creative entrepreneurs and sharing some of the gratitude that’s come my way. It is my hope that you’ll feel comfortable with me, and gain an understanding of what it’s like to work together.

Thank you to ALL of my clients—for trusting me with your stories, and for sharing the love once your project has been completed!

xoxo,
Dawn

Testimonials from past clients: What it’s like to make a Modern Heirloom Book

creating heirlooms to treasure forever

Here’s one I received recently that warmed my heart:

Dear Dawn,

I have just looked through your book again, as I have many times before. As always, I am amazed and gratified by your presentation, layout, and descriptions. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH. It is all I could have hoped for—even more! From the Table of Contents through the final comment—I loved it all! (All!!)

I started a list of things I wanted to mention to you but it became so lengthy, I had to give it up!

It is a book to treasure—which I do—and I will always be grateful for the beautiful job you have done. IT IS PERFECT!!

I plan to have a splurge and send a copy to all of my family and friends! Once again, I can’t thank you enough!

Fondly,
Judy D.

a process that involves collaboration & care

Here’s a snippet of a review, speaking especially to the twists and turns a project can take:

Throughout the process, Dawn was a joy to work with. She listened carefully. She was diligent in working up drafts and gathering feedback. She was unfailingly patient. She brought her own ideas and didn’t hesitate to make suggestions. She even went above and beyond to supplement our research and to deal with administrative hassles with printers due to our last-minute requirements. She delivered on time and within budget.

In every interaction, Dawn conveyed that she cared as much about the book as we did.

Dawn is a special bookmaker. If you are looking for someone to create that special story or tribute to someone you care deeply about, look no further.
—Jenny P.

…and another about vision and collaboration:

We didn’t even really know what we wanted in the beginning and Dawn produced an amazing result. It is a pleasure working through the creative process with her.
—Amy H.

…plus one about process:

Dawn was always ready to make the changes that were inevitable when putting a book together, with good cheer. She is quite well organized and intuitively understood order, placement, emphasis vs. less. I was extremely happy with Dawn’s finished product and wholeheartedly recommend her.
—Gahl B.

…and one about writing, editing, and curating:

Dawn is a therapist, a storyteller, a magician, and an artist with words—how she took what we said and wove it into a story. It truly blew us away!

The process of sorting through 27 years of pictures and mementos was joyfully reflective, but what brought it all together was Dawn’s vision.
—Susan M.

…ah, and then there are the interviews!

Dawn is a warm and engaging person who makes it easy to open up during interviews—even for me, a pretty reserved girl!
—Samantha D.

finished products that awe & inspire

Dawn is a consummate interviewer, a terrific storyteller, and understands how to combine the graphic elements. She took the cream and really brought it to the top.
—Vern O.

My book was simply stunning! And Dawn was a joy to collaborate with.
—Lily R.

words that hold meaning—and bring joy, comfort

We all hope we can pass something of value on to family and friends. The tribute book did just that for Ann. She was ecstatic and we all had to fight back tears watching her flip through the book. She shows it off to whoever comes in the house.
—Terry C.

I still tear up when I look at this book, almost a year later. It is my most cherished possession.
—Maria C.

Thank you, Dawn, for sharing your gifts with us, and for becoming a part of our family story.
—Joe M.

The book was like a bear hug from my dad. I can’t wait to share it with my future children some day!
—Kayla V.

Would you like to see firsthand what it’s like to work together to bring your dream book to life? Reach out if your’e interested in sharing your own memories in a life story book; or honoring a loved one through stories in a tribute book. I can’t wait to hear from you!

**Because privacy of my clients is of utmost concern, I have not disclosed last names for these testimonials.