Programme Design
Programme design that turns moments into keepsakes
A programme is often the first thing your audience picks up and one of the few things they take away.
Whether it’s a matchday fixture, awards ceremony, theatre production or corporate event, it needs to do more than list information. It should feel considered, easy to navigate and represent the experience you’re creating.
We design programmes for organisations across sport, theatre, corporate and cultural sectors, creating everything from simple stitched booklets to high-spec, perfect bound publications. Each one is shaped around your audience, your brand and the context in which it’s used.
How we approach programme design
Designed around your event, not a template
No two programmes are the same and the format should reflect that.
Some need to be quick, cost-effective and easy to update. Others are designed as keepsakes, with premium finishes and more complex production.
We start by understanding what you need the programme to do, then shape the design around that, balancing content, structure and format to suit your audience and environment.
That might mean:
- A clean, functional layout for fast-paced events.
- A more editorial approach for longer-form content.
- Or a high-impact piece showcasing photography and images, designed to be kept long after the event.
Built with production in mind from the outset
Because we work closely with Bishops Printers, we design with a clear understanding of what’s achievable, and what works best, across different budgets and timelines.
Format, pagination, paper stocks and finishes are all considered early, not retrofitted later.
From standard A5 programmes on house stocks with matt or gloss lamination, through to more distinctive formats incorporating die-cutting, specialist papers, foiling, embossing or spot UV, we help you make informed decisions about where to keep things simple and where to add impact.
The result is a programme that looks right, feels right and is practical to produce.
Flexible enough to handle change
Programme content is rarely static. Line-ups change. Sponsors update. Timings shift.
We design with that reality in mind, creating structured, repeatable layouts that make updates straightforward without compromising consistency.
Whether it’s a one-off event or a recurring programme, you’ll have a system that holds together under pressure and remains easy to manage.
Personalisation where it matters
For certain events, a standard programme isn’t enough.
Personalised covers, digitally printed, for VIP guests and sponsors, is a simple but effective way to make them feel appreciated and special.
Because we understand both design and print, these elements are planned properly from the outset, making them straightforward to deliver even within tight timelines.
“The Graphic Design House breathed new life into Portsmouth FC’s matchday programmes during the club’s 125th anniversary season, resulting in record sales and delighted supporters… The programmes will become a cherished keepsake, capturing the essence of Pompey’s rich history in what has become an incredible season for the football club.”
Matthew Barker
Head of Marketing
Portsmouth Football Club
A reliable partner from concept to delivery
From initial ideas through to final artwork, print and mailing, we manage the detail so your programme comes together quickly and easily.
You’ll have a dedicated account manager overseeing the entire process, coordinating design, print and mailing, managing everything for you, so deadlines are met.
Our online proofing system keeps feedback clear and centralised, allowing stakeholders to review efficiently without version confusion or long email chains.
And with design, print and mailing working as one connected service, there’s no disconnect between what’s created and what’s delivered, just a straightforward, well-managed process from start to finish.
FAQs
What is programme design and why is it important?
Programme design is the process of creating a printed or digital booklet for an event, such as a matchday, theatre performance, awards ceremony or corporate function.
It’s important because a programme is often the first thing your audience interacts with and one of the few things they keep. A well-designed programme doesn’t just share information, it enhances the overall experience, brand perceptions, and can become a lasting keepsake.
What types of programmes do you design?
We design a wide range of programmes across multiple sectors, including:
- Sports matchday programmes
- Season brochures and show programmes for theatres and live entertainment venues
- Corporate event programmes
- Awards ceremony booklets
- Cultural and heritage publications
Each programme is tailored to the specific event, audience and purpose, rather than using a one-size-fits-all template.
Do you use templates or create bespoke programme designs?
All of our programme designs are bespoke.
We start by understanding your event, audience and goals, then build the format, layout and structure around that. Whether you need something simple and functional or a premium keepsake piece, the design is shaped specifically for you.
Can you design programmes that are easy to update?
Yes. Programme content often changes — from line-ups and timings to sponsors and editorial content.
We create structured, flexible layouts that make updates straightforward while maintaining consistency. This is especially useful for recurring events or matchday programmes that need regular revisions.
What programme formats and finishes are available?
We design programmes across a wide range of formats and finishes, including:
- Standard A5 or custom sizes
- Stapled (saddle-stitched) booklets
- Perfect bound publications
- Premium finishes such as foiling, embossing and spot UV
- Specialist papers and die-cut formats
We guide you through the options, helping you balance budget, durability and visual impact.
Can you help with both design and print?
Yes, we offer a fully integrated design and print service.
Because we work closely with Bishops Printers, we design with production in mind from the outset. This ensures your programme not only looks great but is also practical, cost-effective and efficient to produce.
How do you ensure the programme reflects our brand?
Every programme is designed around your brand identity, tone and audience expectations.
We carefully consider typography, imagery, layout and content structure to ensure the final piece feels aligned with your wider brand and the experience you’re creating.
Can programmes be personalised for VIPs or sponsors?
Yes, we can incorporate personalised elements where needed.
This might include digitally printed covers for VIP guests, sponsors or special editions. These are planned early in the process to ensure they’re easy to deliver without disrupting production timelines.
How long does it take to design a programme?
Timelines vary depending on the complexity, size and level of finish.
For simpler programmes, turnaround can be relatively quick. More premium or highly detailed publications will require additional time for design, approvals and production. We’ll always set clear timelines upfront and keep your project on track.
Do you manage the whole process from concept to delivery?
Yes, we handle everything from initial concept through to final print and distribution.
You’ll have a dedicated account manager coordinating design, print and mailing, ensuring everything runs smoothly, stays on schedule and avoids unnecessary complexity.
How does your proofing process work?
We use an online proofing system that keeps all feedback in one place.
This allows stakeholders to review, comment and approve efficiently without version confusion or long email chains, making the process faster and more transparent.
Can you design programmes for recurring events or seasons?
Absolutely.
We create scalable design systems that work across a full season or series of events. This ensures consistency while still allowing flexibility for changing content, themes or editorial features over time.
Explore more of our work
Yonex All England Badminton Open Championships
A bold tournament programme for the YONEX All England Open, combining high-impact design with clear information for fans.
Hatfield House
An elegant 8-page gate-fold brochure design blending history and modern style to showcase Hatfield House’s 2024 Musical Time Travel festival.
Portsmouth 125 Year Programme Design
Our retro-modern designs for Portsmouth FC’s anniversary season captivated fans and boosted programme sales.
The Home of
Great Design
Call 023 9233 4971
Email studio@tgdh.co.uk
Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9am – 5:30pm.
Bank holidays, closed.
Visit
The Graphic Design house
Walton Road
Farlington
Portsmouth
Hampshire
P06 1TR