So as most of my regular readers know, I'll be making my first public appearance as an author at the NYC Independent and Small Press Book Fair in December. There will be massive amounts of authors there, all genres, so here's the thing: how do I get people to come over to the table where I'll be (think I'll be with about 5 other authors, so not a lot of space). What would make you actually stop by and take a look at a specific author? Table signs can only be 8 1/2 x 11, and my entire table space will be about 18"x30". I could have promotional items, though as I mentioned in another blog, I'm not sure how effective those would be, long-term.
So...any terribly clever ideas??
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In other semi-exciting news, my second novel, Lost in Paradise, is on its way to the senior editor at The Wild Rose Press for a final read-through. I think this means a publication date might actually be in sight! Finally...
But now I have to think about cute & clever ways to promote this title. I've been so caught up with being cute and clever for One Night in Boston that I haven't given it a whole lot of thought. Hmm...any ideas?
9 comments:
Free cookies?
Back in my restaurant computer tech days I once worked a booth across from an Italian desserts company's booth. They had plates of canolis out all day long and boy, did they get traffic!
So I know from experience that food works. It's not gimmicky, but it does the job.
Allie- I was at the NJ Conference though I didn't stay for the booksigning so I got back early - the goodie room had the usual bookmarks, pens, calenders - someone had tealight candles w/ matchbook with the cover of their book. It all cool stuff to have but I never bought anything because of a promo item. To get people to your table cookies is a good idea and maybe have some bookmarks. Liz
Since I've never had the opportunity, I can only say it sounds like bunnygirl and anonymous have good ideas. I'd just like to congratulate you for your success!
I recently attended a conference and I picked up all the pamphlets, brochures. The tables that we went to included those with colorful display, interactive display, raffles, and food.
Food sounds like a good idea if there are no restrictions on serving homemade goodies. Our local summer theater sold a special cookie at their concession stand for each performance: scones were served at an Agatha Christie mystery; "trash cookies-full of everything" at "The Trailer Park Musical," and a sugar cookie with yellow icing at a show of John Denver songs (remember "Sunshine on my Shoulder?" Corny, but it sold. I can't think of anything to tie in with Boston, except baked beans (yuck!) Any ideas??
Wow - some great ideas here. Thanks! Esp. Dru - the wheels are already turning about what I can include...
Hi Allie,
We went hiking at a state park and left in the morning and got back this evening.
I read where Lucy Monroe took a bouquet of flowers to her signing and had a raffle. People had to come to her table to put their name in her raffle and at the end of book signing, she drew the winner of the bouquet. I didn't do this at either of mine because I didn't have very much room. I did both with lots of other authors. But I thought this was a neat idea. You wouldn't have to give a vase but just the flowers. I'm sure your signing will go great whatever you do!
Diane, Sounds like a fun day! I really like the idea of the raffle. I'll have to see about the logistics of it!
Chocolate never fails.
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