Turning the Page: Brochure Design That Tells a Story
- Laura Kuhn
- Jul 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 19
A brochure isn’t just a folded flyer—it’s a narrative waiting to unfold.
At Midnight Boheme, we don’t just fill panels with copy and pretty pictures. We create page-turning experiences—brochures that guide readers through a brand journey, chapter by chapter, fold by fold.
Whether you're selling a service, promoting an event, or showcasing a product line, your brochure should do more than inform. It should transport. Here’s how to design one that tells a story—and sells it too.
📚 1. Begin with the Plot: What’s the Journey?
Every great story has:
A beginning (hook the reader)
A middle (build trust, provide detail)
An end (make them act)
Your brochure should follow the same rhythm:
Front cover: Set the tone and spark curiosity
Inside panels: Introduce the who, what, and why
Final panel: Deliver the “what next”—a call to action or next step
💡 Ask yourself: Where do I want the reader to start—and where should they end up?
🎨 2. Use Layout as a Storytelling Tool
Your folds are your pacing. Use them to create natural pauses, big reveals, and visual rhythm.
Try this:
Gatefold: Build anticipation, then open to a dramatic center spread
Tri-fold: Structure like a narrative arc—problem, solution, next step
Accordion: Perfect for a timeline, journey, or visual unfolding
Guide the eye. Use columns, icons, and visual cues to move the reader forward—just like turning pages in a book.
✍️ 3. Let Copy and Design Co-Write the Story
Your copy is the voice. Your design is the emotion. Together, they carry your message home.
Tips for synergy:
Open with a tagline or bold statement (like a book’s first line)
Break up body copy with pull quotes or captions
Let headlines set the tone for each section
Use typography styles to differentiate voice (e.g., italics for testimonials, bold for benefits)
🎭 Your brochure isn’t just describing what you offer—it’s performing it.
🖼️ 4. Choose Imagery with Narrative Power
Photos shouldn’t just be filler—they should say something.
Use:
Lifestyle images that show the customer in action
Behind-the-scenes shots for authenticity
Illustrations or icons to carry visual metaphors
Full-bleed photography to add cinematic flair
Every image should support the story you're telling—whether it’s aspirational, historical, luxurious, quirky, or heartfelt.
📦 5. End with a Resolution (and an Invitation)
The final panel is your closing chapter. Don’t leave your reader hanging—invite them to act.
End with:
A compelling call to action (“Book your stay today,” “Visit the showroom,” “Scan to explore more”)
Contact info and links
A visual payoff that leaves a lasting impression (think logo, tagline, or signature image)
📖 A good brochure doesn’t just close—it concludes.
🌙 At Midnight Boheme, We Design Stories You Can Hold
From romantic wedding brochures to spooky murder mystery programs, we bring narrative thinking to every layout. We believe your brochure should feel like a storybook with a purpose—one your audience wants to read, keep, and share.
Let’s design one that unfolds beautifully—and leaves them wanting more.
Midnight Boheme🎨 Story-Driven Brochure & Print Design | New Orleans, LA
Where every fold tells a tale—and every panel sells a brand. Let’s tell your story ➝