Over the past few months, I've gained SO MUCH insight from reading into the world of writing and publishing thanks to many of you, dear readers/writers/agents/editors. I have learned so much from just being a part of this great big Blogosphere -- it has changed my life.
However.
I'm taking it to the next level...
...wait for it...
...I'M FINALLY GOING TO MY FIRST CONFERENCE! WOO-HOO!!!
Ahem.
My amazing husband surprised me yesterday and gave me the go ahead to book it, and for that he will be rewarded with...well, that's of a private nature and this is a family blog.
Anyhoo, if you're wondering, it's the South Carolina Annual Writers Conference in Myrtle Beach, SC.
I'm ready to meet people, face to face. People who are passionate about the same things I am. Who are confused about the same things I am. Oh, to brush up against other authors IN PERSON! To feel the frenzy in the room when, I don't know, Rachelle Gardner is standing there in the flesh. Or Suzie Townsend. Or Irene Goodman. Gah!!!
Hang on, I'm gonna be sick.
I'm freaking nervous. It's not until October, but still. Help me? Please?
Do you have tips for a first time conference goer?
I mean, I want to know everything. What do I wear? What is a MUST to bring? I'm definitely going to have queries, synopses and chapters on hand, but what else???
I'm going to do a post with your helpful tips, where you will be mentioned! By me! Does that sweeten it? No? Hmm, well maybe I could send you two tickets to that thing you love? Or diamonds (Thank you, Old Spice Guy, for that one)? Which reminds me, you totally need to check out agent Nathan Bransford's post yesterday about writing maladies...the guy is hilarious!)
So, any advice is greatly appreciated.
Now, if you see anyone on the news for breaking a hip while doing cartwheels, that'd be me.
I went to my first ever recently. It was a small 40 people event but awesome and great and already I am seeing "fruit" from it! :O)
ReplyDeleteOnly advice I have is prepare as much as possible and bring business cards, a one-sheet, your first chapter...think that's about it.
ReplyDeleteAnd be yourself...they'll love you!!!
I'm nerVOUS to for my first conference in Sept. I can't wait to hear how yours goes.
~ Wendy
That's great!! Hope you have a great time!
ReplyDeleteWear comfy shoes. Dress in layers--in case it's cold or hot in the speaking rooms. Bring a bag that has a folder with note paper for notes, pens, and cough drops or candy in case your throat gets dry from talking and meeting people.
I went to a conference once. Had too much to drink and made a pass at a senior publisher. My advice would be to avoid doing similar.
ReplyDeleteBeth, I'm so excited for you. You're gonna' have a great time. They are so much fun and you'll meet some fantastic friends and come home with scads of info.
ReplyDeleteTips-Bring notebook, things to write notes and names, if you have business cards, bring those (they are handy when talking to editors, agents...), and meet as many people as you can.
We (www.kindredheartwriters.com) have several "evergreen" posts on attending conferences. You're gonna love it!!
Have fun! I just read somewhere about the things writers should be doing if they're truly serious about writing, and attending a conference a year was at the top of the list. So, good for you! I'm going to my first in September. Let us know how yours goes!
ReplyDeleteSo excited for you! Writers conferences were really the beginning for me. Check out this post: http://kindredheartwriters.com/2010/08/davis-bunn-and-writers-conferences.html
ReplyDeleteIt's got some great ideas. My suggestion? After you've packed everything on your list, stick some chocolate in your suitcase!
No advice...I'm not a writer. But it sounds like so much fun, now I want to go to a writer's conference! Enjoy :)
ReplyDeleteVery cool. I look forward to reading the post with all the advice, and also to reading all about the conference when you get back.
ReplyDeleteOooh, fun, fun, fun! I'm going back to a small conference this year. I'm setting aside funds to attend a bigger one next year (Either Willamette in Oregon, or the PNWA).
ReplyDeleteAdvice? Smile. Attend any receptions (you meet quite a few people that way), if you have the chance to do a pitch do it (one of the workshops I'm attending this year is Pitch Party - how to deliver an in-person pitch, I'm planning on pitching next year at the bigger conference, so I'm thrilled I got in this class.) Don't bring too many books, you'll end up buying some while you're there and your bags will be heavy heading home.
My gosh, you get to meet Rachelle Gardner? Awesome!
Have fun, can't wait to hear how it goes?