Write-up

 The annotated manifestos constitute a well-suited training data set for the BERT model.Footnote6 During training, the BERT model uses the annotated training data to learn about the specific task. In this case, BERT learns about the relationship between specific text features and issue categories via machine-learning. I then apply the trained model to the unlabelled texts of interest (press releases, parliamentary speeches, tweets from parties, tweets from individual party members). I use the model to classify each document into one of the issue categories specified in the codebook.Footnote7

 Compared to a manually coded gold standard,Footnote8 the BERT model achieves an accuracy of 58% for press releases, 59% for parliamentary speeches and 50% for tweets.Footnote9 These are comparatively good results for cross-domain topic classification of multiple categories (20 categories), especially applied to such a diverse set of texts as in this article.Footnote10

 The main goal of the analysis is to identify the effect of each individual channel characteristic on political parties’ issue salience. In order to achieve this, I use regression analysis on different samples and combinations of communication channels.

 Issue salience functions as the dependent variable in the analysis and is based on the results of the text analysis described above. It marks the percentage of attention a party devotes to a specific issue within a communication channel (e.g. press releases) over one quarter of a year. I choose to calculate issue salience by quarter as it allows a more reliable estimation than by month. Issue salience by month could be heavily influenced by external events and some channels do not produce consistent monthly communication.Footnote11 Thus, I use issue salience by quarter as the dependent variable in the regression analysis.

 The first independent variable is manifesto salience. I use it to measure the influence of party preferences on issue salience within a communication channel (e.g. press releases). Manifesto salience refers to the percentage of attention a party devotes to a specific issue in its manifesto based on data from the Manifesto Project (Lehmann, Burst, Matthieß, et al. Citation2022). Manifestos are negotiated at length inside parties and are thus viewed as a ‘uniquely representative and authoritative characterisation of party policy at a given point in time’ (Budge et al. Citation1987, p. 18). Consequently, manifestos represent the ideal agenda of political parties and are therefore well-suited indicators to capture party issue preferences (Norris et al. Citation1999). As postulated in the hypotheses (H1–H3), the influence of manifesto salience on issue salience within a communication channel is expected to vary depending on the channel’s characteristics. To account for the potential variation in mediated, centralised and pre-structured channels, I use dummy variables as further independent variables (see Table 1).

 However, simply comparing multiple channels in a single regression model is not enough to identify the effect of each individual channel characteristic. Rather, it is necessary to isolate as much as possible the potential effect of each channel characteristic. In order to achieve this for the three identified channel characteristics, I use different samples. To investigate the effect of a specific characteristic, I compare two channels that are similar with regard to several characteristics except the specific one under investigation. Based on the resulting samples, I run different regression models for each channel characteristic.

 In order to measure the effect of a primarily journalistic audience (mediated channels) on issue salience, I compare press releases with tweets from party accounts. Neither channel is directly influenced by any pre-given structure (e.g. legislative agenda), and in both cases the party office has a considerable degree of control.Footnote12 Press releases are primarily drafted for a journalistic audience, however, and thus deemed a mediated channel; while tweets allow direct communication with the public.

 For isolating the effect of centralised communication, I compare tweets from party accounts with tweets from individual party members. Here, the only difference between the two channels is the authorship of posts. While communication through party accounts is firmly in the hands of the central party office or PPG leadership (i.e. centralised), this is much less the case for communication via accounts of individual party members (i.e. decentralised).

 To measure the effect of pre-structuredness within a channel, I use parliamentary speeches and press releases. Communication in both these cases is to a certain extent decentralised, but party leadership retains some sort of control (see discussion in endnote 2). Parliamentary speeches are, however, influenced by the bills and topics on the legislative agenda. This pre-given structure does not exist in press releases.

 Based on these different samples, I apply individual regression models to identify the effect of a specific channel characteristic. The first model investigates the effect of mediated channels, the second of centralised channels and the third of pre-structured channels. As model specification, I use OLS regression with fixed effects for country, party, issue and quarter to account for potential unobserved differences between these groups. I also control for the time passed since the last election (i.e. quarters since last election) as this may impact the influence of manifestos on party communication. Furthermore, the observations are not independent from each other as the dependent variable issue salience is measured in percent per party and quarter. Thus, the values for issue salience are dependent on each other. To account for this data structure, I use panel-corrected standard errors (Beck and Katz Citation1996, Citation1995) in a similar way as Wagner and Meyer (Citation2014).

 In a first step, it is worth taking a look at the overall distribution of issue salience within each communication channel. Figure 2 displays the extent to which issue salience in press releases, parliamentary speeches and tweets (party accounts and individual party members) differs from manifestos (ideal agenda) across all three countries and parties. It shows the difference between manifestos and the other channels per issue.Footnote13 What becomes clear is that issue agendas vary considerably across channels. This is especially pronounced for the issues of ‘democracy’ and ‘political authority’. While they play comparatively small roles in manifestos, this is not the case in the other channels. Political parties use social media (tweets) in particular to discuss democracy in general and to engage with or attack political opponents, as indicated by the issue of ‘political authority’ (e.g. references to party or personal competence). Similar patterns apply to press releases and parliamentary speeches, but to a more limited extent. Hence, discussions of political processes and competition between political actors are much more prevalent in tweets, press releases and parliamentary speeches than in manifestos. This is not surprising as these channels allow political actors to discuss and comment on different stages of the political process on a regular basis. The same cannot be said for manifestos, which are generally negotiated at length inside parties and only published ahead of elections.

 Conversely, issues that are comparatively important in manifestos (e.g. ‘labour’, ‘welfare state’) receive significantly less attention in the other channels. Press releases, parliamentary speeches and tweets from party accounts or individual party members, however, also show clear differences between them. While ‘European Union’ receives comparatively greater attention in press releases and tweets from party accounts, parliamentary speeches show a relatively strong focus on ‘equality’ and ‘foreign affairs’. Similarly, ‘agriculture’ is comparatively salient in parliamentary speeches and press releases, but not in tweets. Hence, we can clearly observe different issue agendas across party communication channels, lending further support to past findings (Elmelund-Præstekær Citation2011; Norris et al. Citation1999; Tresch et al. Citation2018).

 In the next step, the analysis focuses on how different communication channel characteristics affect issue salience. Through the different samples introduced earlier, I compare channels that are similar on a number of dimensions except the specific characteristic under investigation in order to isolate the effect of a particular channel characteristic. According to hypotheses H1–H3, the influence of party preferences (ideal agenda) on issue salience within a communication channel should be moderated by the specific channel characteristics. As discussed earlier, the issue preferences of parties (ideal agenda) are represented by the variable manifesto salience in the models.

 Table 3 displays regression results that measure the moderating effect of channel characteristics on the influence of manifesto salience.Footnote14 The first model compares tweets from party accounts (direct) and press releases (mediated), but it does not find any statistically significant differences between them, as indicated by the interaction term. Therefore, H1 cannot be supported based on this finding. This contradicts a common argument in the literature. Existing research argues that mediated channels, such as press releases, are tailored to the needs and interests of journalists, who are usually interested in issues that are already salient in the media and among other important actors, but not so much in the communication of issue preferences (i.e. ‘owned’ issues). This is the case because the latter offer nothing ‘new’ and therefore do not have a high news value (Dalmus et al. Citation2017; Meyer et al. Citation2020).

 Although surprising at first sight, the lack of difference between direct and mediated channel fits well with hybrid media system theory. In hybrid media environments, actors simultaneously use ‘older’ and ‘newer’ logics in producing, distributing and consuming news and political information (Chadwick Citation2017). Journalists nowadays rely not only on traditional sources of information (e.g. press releases), but leverage alternative sources (e.g. social media) as well. Political actors, in turn, adapt to this new logic and now also address journalists through direct channels (e.g. Twitter aka X). Furthermore, the time and personnel required to draft social media posts is comparatively small. Parties can therefore discuss a broader set of issues and strict prioritisation according to the ideal agenda may not be highly relevant on many social media platforms. Therefore, hybrid media environments and the low costs of producing social media content can explain the lack of difference between direct and mediated channels observed in this study.

 The second regression model evaluates the influence of centralised communication on parties’ issue salience. Although decentralised communication arguably can serve as an amplifier of central party messages, H2 still expects that party preferences have a greater influence on issue salience in centralised channels than in decentralised ones. This should be the case as centralisation allows better coordination and firm control of content by the party office. Furthermore, decentralised communication may also provide an incentive for parties and their members to expand their appeal by focusing on a broader or different set of issues. Therefore, communication along the ideal agenda should be more prevalent in centralised channels than in decentralised ones. In the model, I compare (centralised) tweets from party accounts with (decentralised) tweets from individual party members. The results indeed show a stronger effect of manifesto salience in the centralised channel (see interaction term). The effect is statistically significant and H2 can therefore be supported.

 The guest list is one of the most crucial elements of a successful EVJF. So who should you invite to your special day? The first question to ask is: who are the people closest to the bride-to-be? Witnesses, bridesmaids, close friends and, of course, family members such as a sister or cousin are essential guests to consider. It's always a good idea to consult the bride-to-be directly to make sure the guest list matches her wishes. After all, it's her day, and nothing should be left to chance. This not only ensures that the right people are present, but also avoids any faux pas.

 This is the first decision you have to make, and it's not always the easiest. Too soon before the wedding? You forget the final details of the big day. Too late? You run the risk of tiring out the bride just before the big day. The ideal time is often between one and three months before the wedding. You also need to take into account the availability of the participants. A doodle or Google Form can work wonders to simplify the choices. And if possible, plan a back-up date, because life is rarely a smooth ride.

 Also look out for local events that could affect the booking of a venue or accessibility (festivals, bank holidays, school holidays...). In short, choosing a date requires a bit of flair, a lot of diplomacy and a pinch of luck.

Female Stripper Scottsdale

 The budget is often a tricky question, but one that is essential to the success of the EVJF. The first step is to ask the guests about their financial capabilities in order to establish a realistic budget. It's important to compare prices to choose options that suit everyone's budget and desires. The EVJF budget should be shared equally between all the participants, with the exception of the bride. It is advisable to collect the funds at least 2 months before the event to avoid any last-minute stress. In general, the budget per person for an EVJF varies between €75 and €150, or even more, depending on the activities planned.

 For optimum management, draw up a detailed estimate and suggest price ranges when you do the survey: less than €100, between €100 and €200, and more. Planning staggered payments can also help to ensure that all participants can finance the event. Don't forget to include an extra margin of 20 to 30 euros for unforeseen circumstances.

 This is probably one of the most important points: the location of the EVJF. It must be suited to the number of participants, the theme chosen and the type of activities planned. A villa with a swimming pool for a relaxing weekend? A cottage in the countryside for a nature EVJF? A stylish city-centre flat for a night out? It all depends on the atmosphere you want to create. Renting a place allows you to put down your suitcases, decorate to your heart's content, plan workshops or games without worrying about noise, and above all... live together for 24 hours or more.

 And to avoid unpleasant surprises, make sure you check the rental conditions, the capacity, the arrival and departure times and the equipment available (crockery, sound system, bedding, etc.). And above all, book well in advance, especially if the EVJF is taking place during the holidays or a bank holiday.

 Accommodation is another crucial aspect of organising an EVJF. There are many options: hotels, villas, youth hostels. Around a third of the EVJF budget is usually spent on accommodation. It's important to compare prices carefully and book in advance to guarantee your choice. Youth hostels can offer budget options, while villas and flats can provide a more luxurious and private setting. Make sure that the accommodation you choose is comfortable for everyone involved and that it is conveniently located for the activities you have planned. This minimises travel and maximises celebration time.

 Make way for nostalgia and retro vibes! This theme takes everyone back to the days of cassette tapes, the Spice Girls and low-rise jeans. Fun, colourful and totally offbeat, it's guaranteed to create a crazy atmosphere full of memories.

 For a bride who loves to shine, this theme transforms your wedding day into a veritable red carpet. With its VIP party atmosphere, glitter and rhinestones, it's an ultra-feminine and sophisticated occasion. An opportunity to feel like a star with your girlfriends.

 There's nothing like a good photo shoot to immortalise this unique day. Whether you use a professional photographer or a well-used smartphone, the most important thing is to capture the smiles, the outfits and the moments of togetherness. Set up a photobooth area with a background in keeping with the theme (garlands, balloons, colourful curtains, etc.) and plan plenty of fun accessories: hats, glasses, boas, ‘team bride’ signs, etc. Guaranteed results on Instagram!

 Not every bride-to-be dreams of a nightclub EVJF. For some, the ultimate luxury is to relax. If that's the case, why not opt for a spa day, with massages, hammam, jacuzzi, organic herbal teas and a Zen playlist? You can book into a wellness centre or hire a private spa. Some villa rentals even have built-in spas. And if you want to go all out, have a beautician come to your home for facials, manicures or massages.

 Want to get everyone moving? There's nothing like a dance class to boost the atmosphere and create hilarious memories. Whether it's a sexy Beyoncé-style choreography, an 80s routine or even a flashmob to the bride's favourite song, anything goes.

 On the creative side, you can organise a workshop to make jewellery, scented candles, homemade cosmetics, or even canvas painting. It's a chance to personalise objects, learn something new and have a laugh at the sometimes... highly original creations!

 An EVJF worthy of the name (often) ends with a memorable evening. And what better way to do it than with a well-organised night out? The trifecta: restaurant + bar + nightclub. And if you're staying in the same area or everything is within walking distance, even better!

 Start with dinner in a nice restaurant, ideally in keeping with the theme of the EVJF. Then head for an atmospheric bar: personalised cocktails, bar games, entertainment, or even a private area. And finally, end the evening in style with a wild night out at the club: dance floor, fancy dress and wild choreography.

 The final preparations are crucial if everything is to go smoothly on the big day. Check all the necessary documents and equipment the day before departure to avoid forgetting anything. Drawing up a list of things to take with you can be very useful.

 Personalised scarves and badges are an excellent souvenir idea for guests. Elastic bracelets with ‘Team Bride’ themes can strengthen the bond between guests. Using a photobooth and organising a prize draw for small gifts can add fun and create lasting memories.

 Organising a memorable EVJF requires planning, coordination and a lot of love. By following the steps in this guide, you can create a unique and unforgettable event for the bride-to-be and her guests. From selecting guests and managing the budget, to choosing activities and gifts, every detail counts to make this special event a success.