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Collecting Tips

Handwrite Your Letter

I tried typing letters the first time I wrote to celebrities but I felt it wasn't unique. Handwriting became more comfortable because it gives your letter a personal touch. I recommend a handwritten letter unless your handwriting is unreadable.

Make it "Short and Sweet"

Never keep your letter over a page long. Keep it short and to the point. Most celebrities and sports stars do not have enough time to read multi-page letters from fans. Address the letter respectfully (use Mr./Ms./Mrs./President, etc). Include compliments - nobody likes negative letters, especially when you want something from them. Write something that you particularly like about the person you're writing to or a specific work that you like - mention character names and movies in which they starred or appeared (yes, that means you'll have to do research if you don't know their biography/filmography). This would make it appear that you're a true fan rather than a collector. When you ask for autographs, it is important to use polite words like "please" and "thank you"

It is also important that you DO NOT mention that you are a "collector" in you letter. A celebrity is more likely to give you an autograph if he/she feels that it's for your personal use.

Specifically Ask For An Autograph

If you do not ask for an autograph, then chances are you will not get one. I usually ask for a personalized autograph because it has a personal value to me. Sometimes a celebrity does not have a photo to sign, so it's a good idea to include a blank 3x5 index card. In some cases, you will get both a photo and the index card signed. If you wish to send your own photos to be signed, don't send more than 2 photos. The celebrity will get suspicious to why you request so many photos to be signed.

Use a S.A.S.E

Always use a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope (S.A.S.E). It is very important that you use a S.A.S.E as it will increase your chances of receiving a reply. When I send out request, I usually attach two $.37 cents (U.S) on a 9x12 manilla envelope (enclosed with a file folder to prevent it from bending). I enclose this S.A.S.E in a 10x13 manillia envelope, also with two $.37 cents postage. I usually put two stamps because I enclose a folder and in case the celebrity sends extra items. The postage will vary depending on the weight. Write or stamp "Photo - Do Not Bend!" on both the manillia envelopes so the mailman does not bend your photos. Also, write "Address Correction & Forward" below the celebrity's address. If the celebrity moved and has provided a forwarding address, the post office will forward it to the new address or return it to you with the correction indicated.

Wait

Keep a log of celebrities that you sent a letter to. Include the date that you sent the letter to. It helps keep track of your request, especially when you have a large number of them. After sending out an autograph request, have patience. Due to their busy schedule, it may take celebrities as long as 6 months to 1 year to respond. In some cases, you will get a response within a week to a month

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Scott

thedugout

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