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Welcome to Allegra in Fairfax, VA.
Your one-stop resource for marketing, print,
and mail services.

Call Us! (703) 698-7820  / Fax Us! (703) 698-7823

 

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FAQs

Q1. How should I prepare digital files for you?
Answer: We work in both PC and Macintosh formats; so don’t convert your file just to have it produced. Always provide a hard copy of your project to show it exactly the way you envision. Also, find out how your file should be saved – the most common file formats we use for graphics are JPEG, EPS, and TIFF, among others. To print a full-color image, make sure you save it in the correct color format, to match either RGB or CMYK color printing processes. However, it is always a safe route if you would discuss it with us before submitting any files over to us.  If your files are large than 5MB, please use the File Transfer feature to upload your files to our web site.  Call if you need help to do this process.

If you are not sure how to prepare your digital files, bring your disk into our location and one of our graphic designers can help you format them correctly. Check to make sure any links in your project are also included on your disk, along with the printer and screen fonts used in your piece. If you have any more questions about what to include with your files, do not hesitate to call.

Q2. Can you archive my artwork?
Answer: Yes, generally if you let us know that you'd like to have a reprint for the same products in the near future! We archive your document for at least a period of 6 months to make sure your re-ordering process quick and simple. Many of our clients utilize this service to save time and cost.

Q3. Can you match any color?
Answer: We can absolutely match any PMS Pantone spot color. However, some process colors are more difficult to match than others, especially certain shades of reds and blues. Things that affect color match include: screen calibration, what material is printed, the output device, the light source, and, believe it or not, even the age and gender of the person viewing your document. We will do our best to match the colors you need.

Q4. Do you have a price sheet?
Answer: For standard work we can approximate what a project will cost. However, many jobs are customized projects requiring specific methods of production, and may require an individualized estimate.

Q5. How long will it take to complete my job?
Answer: It really depends on the amount of work involved. Once we receive your order, discuss your specific needs, and you approve the artwork, we can give you a more accurate completion date. If we are missing any element of a file, we will contact you or your organization as soon as possible to get the missing information. Please be sure to provide accurate contact information with all of your incoming orders.

Q6. What kinds of digital files can you accept?
Answer: We work with a variety of software in PC or Macintosh formats – supporting most popular graphic software programs like PageMaker, QuarkXpress, Corel, Illustrator, PhotoShop, Microsoft Office, Publisher, and others. If you are working with software not listed here, please give us a call; we can probably still use your artwork.

Q7. How can I set up an account with you?
Answer: If you expect to place frequent orders, you might want to establish an account with us. Once you provide us with your account information, we can certainly work with you in saving your repeating files digitally.  The repeating orders are already stored in our system and it will be a breeze to request for repeating prints from those.

Q8. How can I get a quote on my project?
Answer: The fastest way is to use our online ordering and quote request service. When we receive your request, we will review your specifications, and e-mail or call you with a quote. Or – if you prefer – you can call us, stop in to our location, or request that one of our representatives come to see you.

Q9. Do you offer any design assistance?
Answer: Yes - if you can imagine it, we can help you design it. Our graphic designers can create anything from a simple direct mail piece or newsletter to a complete product brochure. We will work with you to select the paper stock, ink colors, graphics, and fonts for a piece that will make you stand out from your competition.

Q10. What kind of quantity should I order to get the lowest price?
Answer: We recommend that you order what you really need. As much as 35% of printed materials can become obsolete before they are used, so what may appear to be cost effective in the short run may prove to be costly in the long run. Consult with us so we recommend more accurate and effective solutions.