Comparing Memoir-Writing Services: Which One is Right for Your Family?

When the holiday season approached last year, I was determined to find a gift for my parents that would bring us closer together while honoring their life stories. After much research, I explored three popular platforms: Memorygram, Storyworth, and Remento. I decided to purchase all three, allowing my parents to experience each one. Here, I’m excited to share our journey and highlight why I believe Memorygram came out on top.

The Battle of the Legacy Books

To help illustrate why Memorygram stands out, I've put together a comparison table that lays out the strengths and weaknesses of each platform.

Feature	Memorygram	Storyworth	Remento
Multiple Storytellers	Yes	No	No
Color Photos in Book?	Yes, no limit	No, black and white	1 per chapter
Book Size	Larger Format	Smaller and unassuming	Even Smaller
Additional Storage Cost	No	Yes	Yes
Live Phone Support	Yes	Automated Only	None
Data Security	Strong Emphasis	Basic	Minimal Focus

A Memorable Start

We kicked off our memoir experience on a rainy Saturday afternoon. My parents, both in their mid-sixties and rich with stories, were eager to begin.

“Alright! Let’s start with those stories!” my dad exclaimed, while my mom nodded enthusiastically.

Starting with Memorygram, I was struck by how user-friendly it was. My parents both shared stories simultaneously, capturing their intertwined lives. When my mom shared her recollections of their wedding day, dad chimed in with amusing anecdotes about best man mishaps. This collaborative effort made every story richer.

Navigating Storyworth

Next, my parents tried Storyworth. Initial excitement turned to disappointment quickly.

"Why is everything in black and white?" my mom asked, puzzled as she reviewed the text-heavy options.

"Where are the pictures? This isn't how I pictured our story," my dad added.

The lack of visuals made an emotional connection difficult. While the interface was easy to navigate, the absence of color and photos left them feeling disconnected. Less than a week later, they decided to move on to the next option.

Facing Remento

Then they turned to Remento. The sleek design initially impressed them, but that enthusiasm faded quickly.

“Why is there only one photo allowed per chapter? That doesn't do justice to our memories,” sighed my mom.

Dad echoed her frustration, saying, “It's like trying to tell a story without all the chapters.” They encountered hidden fees for additional storage, which caused even more irritation. When they reached out to customer service, frustrations mounted with long wait times and unhelpful responses. “I’d rather talk to a brick wall than get help from them,” my dad exclaimed in exasperation.

Hidden Fees

One of the things I appreciate most about Memorygram is their transparent pricing. With Memorygram, what you see is what you get. There are no sneaky subscription fees or upcharges lurking in the fine print. Once you purchase your legacy book package, you have unlimited access to your stories and photos forever.

In contrast, I was frustrated to discover that with Remento, you're locked into an annual subscription fee if you want to maintain access to your memories. If you cancel or don't renew, poof - your precious stories and photos disappear. Talk about holding your memories hostage! I much prefer Memorygram's approach of giving you full ownership of your book and digital files.

With Storyworth, I was excited about the idea of a hardcover memoir - until I found out that they charge extra for color photos. Want to include that vibrant snapshot of Grandma's 80th birthday party? Get ready to open your wallet. But with Memorygram, color photos are included at no extra charge. You can preserve your family history in full color without breaking the bank.

When it comes to pricing, Memorygram is the clear winner in my book. No hidden fees, no subscription ransom, and color photos included. That's a legacy company I can get behind.

Why Memorygram Shines Brightest

After testing all three platforms, my parents returned to Memorygram and felt that same excitement as at the start. The beautiful integration of photos transformed the experience. They shared quirky snapshots, like my dad in oversized 80s glasses and my mom at her first dance recital. These visuals made their stories come alive.

"Look at this!" my mom exclaimed, flipping through the vibrant pages. "We can actually relive these moments!"

The larger format of the book also made it a stunning addition to their coffee table, unlike the smaller versions from the other platforms that felt less significant.

Memorygram legacy book showcasing vibrant family memories.

Additionally, having live phone support was a huge advantage. When my parents had questions, they received quick and effective answers—unlike their experiences with the other services.

Data Security Matters

One aspect that stood out about Memorygram was its focus on data security. As the only US-based company in this space, it assured us that their cherished stories and photos were safeguarded. My dad summed it up beautifully:

"I’d recommend a product where I know our data is handled responsibly. It just feels right."

Reflections on Our Legacy Journey

At the end of their memoir adventure, my parents took a moment to reflect while flipping through their completed Memorygram book.

"This is like a time capsule!" my mom said, eyes glistening.

"I love how our stories are intertwined, and the photos truly complete it," my dad added with a smile.

This journey taught me that the best gifts are not just material items—they are connections that tell a story. As we wrapped up this chapter, I felt confident recommending Memorygram for its features and the heartfelt experience it fosters.

Final Thoughts on Legacy Gifts

As we prepare for another holiday season, I encourage you to consider a legacy book for your parents. Through my experience with Memorygram, Storyworth, and Remento, it's clear that Memorygram offers a well-rounded, engaging, and beautiful way to preserve family stories. It checks all the boxes: multiple storytellers, outstanding customer support, vibrant visuals, and strong attention to data security.

Giving your parents a Memorygram book goes beyond the pages; it’s about the stories that create a cherished family legacy.

So gather those memories and make this gift a special journey for your family—something that will undoubtedly be treasured for years to come.

Family gathering around the Memorygram book sharing memories together.

Memorygram legacy book showcasing a family photo and handwritten story.

If you're interested to learn more, check them out at memorygram.com