Start Pitching Christmas Stories *Now*

Thanksgiving is this week, so the chance to get a story in the papers or on TV is pretty much over. Now is the time to pitch Christmas stories to the newspapers and TV. Newspapers have a 3 - 4 week turn-around time, whereas TV programs have about a 1-week turn-around time (meaning, they can get you on in about one week). So now's the time.

For prioritization, I recommend that you pitch the newspapers NOW. Right now. November 21. Put together a press release and email it to them right away so they can start consideration. Then I'd start pitching the TV stations: programs like Your Life A-Z on Channel 3 and Arizona Midday on Channel 12. These people like cooking ideas, recipes, and wine.

What types of stories do they like? Interesting and unusual items work best.

• Wine pairings for smoked or deep-fried turkey (not just roasted).
• White or red for roasted turkey? Two experts offer their opinion.
• Cook all the "trimmings" in under an hour.
• How kids can help making dinner.
• Christmas Souffle' for dessert!
  
• An elegant dinner on a budget.

Interesting variations on the wine and food theme will get the attention of the reporter.

So start pitching your stories now. That'll give you plenty of time to get it to press before Christmas.