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Publications
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Unveiling Stories, Creating Legacies

Where Words Find Wings

For over 20 years, we have published over 50 books across 30 territories, celebrating wellness, culture, cuisine, and innovation. Our custom wellness publications reflect a deep understanding of place and purpose, shaping stories that matter.


Our previous publications include:

- Clean UAE 
- Best Of...series 
- The Land That Remains 
- The Atlas of Ibo Island (Mozambique


Publications

Meet Our Editor

Lisa Durante
Wellbeing Lifestyle Editor 
& Retreat Curator

Hello, I’m Lisa Durante, an editor and writer with over two decades of experience in storytelling and publishing. My journey began with a degree in Sociology from the Vatican’s Pontifical Gregorian University, followed by an MA in International Journalism from London University. Early on, I worked in India as a development writer for a United Nations (FAO) project, crafting narratives that supported impactful change in the Bay of Bengal region.

In 2004, I co-founded GVPedia.com, a global business network and publishing company that connects people, ideas, and innovations across the world. As the editor of the Best Of… book series, I helped create a celebrated collection of destination coffee table books showcasing the innovations and visionaries shaping over 40 countries. These maxi-format publications highlight my love for storytelling, culture, and stunning visual design. My portfolio also includes CLEAN UAE, a pioneering publication exploring environmental, corporate, and social governance in the UAE, as well as ghostwritten books, autobiographies, and reports - all delivered with turnkey precision.

My editorial career in the UAE saw me leading prominent regional publications such as Aquarius, Jumeirah Beach Magazine, Property World Middle East, and NewYou, the region’s foremost magazine dedicated to Integrative Health, Medical Aesthetics, Holistic Healing, and optimal longevity. Each role strengthened my commitment to telling meaningful stories about wellness, culture, and sustainability.

As the co-founder of Wellness Culture Connect (WCC), I continue to weave these values into everything we do. Through beautifully designed content and immersive experiences, we tell authentic, visually rich stories that celebrate places, traditions, and human connections.

At WCC, we believe that the written word and stunning visuals can uncover the essence of a destination, inspire connection, and drive meaningful change. Whether editing a publication, ghostwriting a story, or curating a retreat, I am dedicated to creating work that resonates with authenticity, creativity, and impact.

Let’s uncover the stories that matter - together.


FAQs

What is contract publishing, and how does it apply to coffee table books?

 Contract publishing is a bespoke service where organisations or individuals collaborate with a professional publishing team to produce custom books. These books, particularly coffee table editions, often focus on lifestyle, destination, culture, and wellness, showcasing stunning visuals and rich narratives tailored to captivate a target audience.


What distinguishes coffee table books in the lifestyle and culture niche?

Coffee table books in this niche are designed to be visually impactful, blending high-quality imagery with engaging, informative text. They explore themes like local heritage, global wellness trends, unique destinations, or lifestyle concepts, making them a compelling choice for branding, gifting, or storytelling.

What services are included in contract publishing for coffee table books?

Services are comprehensive and tailored, including:

  • Concept development: Ideation and storyboarding to align with the book's purpose.

  • Content creation: Engaging narrative development, ghostwriting, and expert interviews.

  • Photography and design: Professional imagery and layout tailored to coffee table aesthetics.

  • Production: High-quality printing, binding, and finishing.

  • Distribution: Strategic placement in lifestyle stores, cultural hubs, or online retailers.

What is a turnkey book publishing service?
Turnkey publishing is an all-inclusive approach, offering end-to-end guidance from manuscript development to final distribution. It ensures a seamless process for authors or organisations, particularly for custom books, including coffee table editions.
What are the additional services offered under turnkey publishing?

 Turnkey publishing covers the entire spectrum, including:

  • Manuscript evaluation and developmental editing

  • Copy editing and proofreading

  • ISBN assignment and copyright registration

  • Cover and interior design

  • Printing and binding

  • Distribution and marketing support

What is ghostwriting, and is it part of your services?
Ghostwriting involves creating content on behalf of an author, allowing them to focus on their vision while professional writers craft the narrative. This service is ideal for coffee table books where clients provide ideas, themes, or raw materials that are shaped into compelling content.
Who retains the rights to the book in a contract publishing or turnkey arrangement?
In most cases, clients retain full rights to their books. The publishing team provides expertise and support without claiming ownership, ensuring you have control over the content and its future use.
How does the distribution process work for coffee table books?

Distribution can be tailored to the client’s goals, often including:

  • Placement in luxury and lifestyle retail stores

  • Availability on major online platforms (e.g., Amazon, Waterstones)

  • Custom solutions for corporate gifting or event giveaways

What are the costs associated with contract publishing or turnkey services?
Costs vary based on project scope, book specifications, and services required. It's essential to discuss your budget and objectives upfront for a clear and transparent agreement.
How long does it take to produce a coffee table book?
Timelines depend on the project's complexity, from ideation and design to printing. For coffee table books, this process may range from 6 to 12 months.
Can revisions be made after publication?
Most providers allow post-publication revisions, though they may incur additional fees. It's best to finalise as much as possible before printing to minimise post-production changes.
How do royalties work in contract publishing?
For commercial projects, royalties can be structured based on sales agreements. However, for custom coffee table books commissioned by organisations, royalties might not apply, as the client typically owns the rights outright.
How does contract publishing align with branding or promotional goals?
Custom books, especially coffee table editions, serve as powerful branding tools. They reflect a client’s ethos, offering readers an immersive experience that strengthens brand identity and leaves a lasting impression.

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