When I Came West (Part Thirty-One)
On February 5-7th I attended the Story Circle Network "Stories from the Heart" fifth annual women's memoir writing conference in Austin at the Wyndham Hotel.
I had been asked to be part of the "Getting Published" panel along with six other successful writers. I used this opportunity to promote my books in several ways. I sent bookmarks and postcards beforehand for the conference organizers to place in the "goodie bags" that each woman received when they registered. I took along flyers for When I Came West to place on the "Heart-to-Heart Table" that had been set up for everyone to set out their PR materials. And I took copies of my three current publications to be on display at the conference bookstore.
During the panel presentation I had a copy of all my books displayed along with the other presenter's books at the front of the room. Whenever I answered a question about the publishing process I tried to specifically mention details about When I Came West. During conversations with other authors or aspiring writers I focused my attention on them and their work, but I did not shy away from mentioning my book(s) if the opportunity arose.
I took time to seek out the keynote speaker and thank her for her talk. If there was a lull during a workshop, I didn't hesitate to raise my hand and ask a question or offer an opinion. Then I waited after workshop sessions to have a chance to exchange a few words with the presenter to let her know I appreciated her contribution to the conference.
In the hotel restaurant where we had our meals, I invested some energy in visiting with the interested and interesting waitstaff manager, and I gifted a copy of one of my books to her for her special efforts at making things lovely for all of us. Before the end of the event I sought a chance to chat with the conference co-chairs and thank them for all their hard work and dedication. All of these are small things, but in total they add up to creating an atmosphere of involvement and making connections with others who love the writing life as much as I do.
Did I sell any books?
A few, but I did meet women who will continue to enrich my life. One wants to do an interview and podcast with me about When I Came West and another hopes I'll come to her town to do a presentation.
If I look at the three days I spent at the SCN conference in financial terms (what it cost me to attend--almost $600--versus the money I made) all I would see is red ink. However, if I look at those days in creative terms all I see is the beauty and bounty of women coming together to share their stories and encourage each other.
Was this a successful venture?
Without doubt.
As I file my receipts and write my thank you emails, I am filled with satisfaction and delight.
