Monday is here but I thought I would talk about my Sunday routine and how I get things done on a busy schedule. My creative wheels are turning faster because my husband and I got into an unexpected spring show in Uptown, Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 7th. I’m working on all the prep work because this is the launch of some new miniature creations.
The best part of participating in events is that I get to bring copies of my books in tow. I have 4 new ones to set out on the table. I’m not aiming to be a Jack of All Trades and a Master of Nothing but when you’re an a writer or artist, you need to be able to create, market, and sell your work. We all wear several hats.
This past weekend, I laughed with another set of twin artists and digital media specialists because we all do a little of everything. Adapting to changing circumstances and coming up with new ideas is normal to us. Of course, we exchanged business cards and social media handles. As a writer, you should have your own cards, websites/pages, and carry them with you for those unexpected meetings.
Getting ready to any event is a circus of it’s own. I usually have a checklist, my totes and tubs, chairs, business cards, books, art, and everything else that’s required for show day. My advice is to look at how other writers and artists set-up their tables for events. YouTube if you’ve never done an event.
I hate to say it but visuals play a big part in a reader stopping at your table. Writers who attend events regularly know to bring candy, freebies – like bookmarks, or games to win a free sign copy. This might be comfortable for some people but when you’re in competition for attention with other writers, you need to pull out all the stops. You need to believe that you’re work is just as good as theirs.
Dressing up your table helps and whether you admit it or not, we are all visual people. We are drawn to book covers by the way they look. When we enter a room our eyes look around at the aesthetics. Someone will do the same for your table. Having signs for your genre and name also help. Having friends that stop by and make your book look like a hot item also help because most of us have the desire to be with the “in” crowd.
I’ve posted this list before but here is what’s on my list for event days:
- Books and signing pen
- Folding table
- Table Cloth
- Business cards
- Banners or signs
- Freebies and goodies
- Sign-up sheets
- Water and snacks
- Scheduling a friend or family member to give you a bathroom break
If you don’t have event, then work with a local book shop to see if they invite authors. Search social media for upcoming events. Some event applications are at the beginning and end of the year. Join events with artists and other kinds of creators. Just type in search and keeping going.
The Spring into Uptown Event is May 7th from 11-8 pm on Hennepin Avenue in-between 31st and Lake Street in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Come visit at my booth!
My posts are Monday through Friday.
Imagine Inspire Create: 52 Weeks of action and gratitude is available at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09S6XCLFY/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_Q7MHM9CFBSASDG56YMJQ
Get closer to your writing goals with my Writer’s Journal filled with writing prompts and exercises. You can find a copy at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0931QRL7C/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_VTHN0QSHXRYK6RJ1XSWQ.
Writer's Block Inc 