Friday, October 31, 2014
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
TEN THINGS YOU NEED FOR A BOOK SIGNING!
BOOK SIGNING SOON? You will want to check out these ten points of advice.
If you’ve been thinking about setting up a table at a book festival, make sure you read this list first. This list has everything you need to make a successful showing. If you find it helpful, please share. Make sure you click the links to see the awesome resources I’ve dug up for you so you don’t have to go find them yourself.
If you’ve been thinking about setting up a table at a book festival, make sure you read this list first. This list has everything you need to make a successful showing. If you find it helpful, please share. Make sure you click the links to see the awesome resources I’ve dug up for you so you don’t have to go find them yourself.
- Books – This may sound obvious, but you need books to sell. If possible, find out how many people are expected to attend, and calculate a 1% – 2% conversion rate. That is roughly how many books you will need to have on hand.
- Posters - These can draw the attention of potential buyers from across the room. Make sure you get 16×20 or larger, so they are easier to see from a distance.
- Poster Frames – If you buy a decent frame, it should last you a while, and you can use it for multiple events. Make sure you bring Windex and paper towels to keep the glass clean.
- Display Tripod – If you have posters, you’ll need a way to display them. Having tripods is a great idea because you can adjust the height and they come with awesome carrying cases.
- Book Stand – A book stand is a great way to display your books and ensure that they don’t keep falling over. People like to touch, and rarely put the books back correctly. This cuts down on that.
- Table Banner – Having a table banner can attract a lot of attention from a distance. Just make sure that your banner isn’t too big for your table or it will droop and look unprofessional.
- Bookmarks – Bookmarks are awesome and cheap free giveaways. They also help make your table look more full and they can be used over and over again. The reusability of bookmarks makes them great for long term marketing.
Personal Dolly – I’ve done several shows and a personal dolly will save you lots of time and back pain, especially if its a far walk from the car to your table. Invest in one of these if you plan to attend shows on at least a semi regular basis.
- Tablet PC – If you really want to draw the crowd’s attention, putting a slideshow on a tablet can be a wow factor. I stole this little idea from Virren Orr as I watched him use it to add email addresses to his mailing list the entire book fair.
- Emergency Power Source – One thing about book festivals and fairs is that they don’t always offer access to power. Having your own power source can be a game changer, especially if no one else has one.
- Business Cards – These are essential at pretty much any event. Business cards are a great way to let people know how to get in touch with you. There are also other uses for business cards, outside of just providing your contact information. Experiment and see what other uses you can come up with.
- Flyers - If you have upcoming events or just want to share excerpts from your books, flyers are a great way to do both. If your event is not ongoing, make sure you don’t order too many or you’ll be stuck with lots of unusable flyers. Its also suggested that you do a small order at first to see how people respond. If they don’t like them, change them, and try again until you find a design that is more effective.
- Awning – These are great to have on hand. Luckily you’ll only need to buy one of these, unless it gets damaged. Awnings can keep the sun off of you in the heat and rain off of you and your books if necessary. You can never go wrong with an awning purchase. Just make sure your awning isn’t too big for your location. A 10×10 will work in most cases.
- Table Cloth – This is a necessary expense because they usually aren’t provided. Table cloths are great for hiding boxes under tables or if you have to share a table, it ensures that you aren’t
sitting at a table with two different table cloths that meet at the middle. A good rule of thumb is to buy at least one 6ft. and one 8ft. so that there are no issues if you end up with a table that is larger or smaller than expected.
- Chairs - Comfortable chairs are essential if you plan to attend an event for a long period of time. Most times chairs are not provided, and if they are, they tend to be flimsy. Do yourself a favor and get yourself a comfortable chair. If you’re serious about your career, you’ll be using it for years to come.
Reader Add Ons
- Transparent Shower Curtains – This, along with clear tape will help keep the rain off or your books when the wind is blowing.
- Plastic Shopping Bags – Customers need something to carry their books in and they’ll appreciate you going the extra mile. It’ll also give people a reason to stop at your table when they have books they’ve already bought, but nothing to carry them in.
- Square – If you need to process credit card payments, then this is a handy little device that will allow you to swipe them and collect payment using your phone.
- Weights and Bungee Cords – These are perfect for holding down your canopy and signs.
- Trash Bags – If you plan to eat or open packaging of any kind, having trash bags can come in handy. However, make sure you keep them out of sight or it will make your area look unprofessional.
- Signing Pens – Make sure you grab a pack, just in case people want their books signed. While you’re at it, have a lighter on hand. If your pen dries up, heating the tip very quickly will get the ink flowing again.
- See more at: http://www.virtualbusinesstrainingnetwork.com/author/the-ultimate-book-festival-checklist/#sthash.tHLZh2lW.dpuf
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
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Scarlett Jade's Latest News!
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Sunday, October 26, 2014
Friday, October 24, 2014
Author Spotllight
M. Sembera - Author
Birth date:
It was something I always wanted to do. I had written things here and there but never sat down and put everything together to write a book. It just happened that it was the right time in my life to be able to focus and get it all down.
ARC of Stolen Innocence (Shadow Series) by Addison Kline
Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
Thank you so much for the interview questions and for sharing my work! <3 M.
Birth date:
May 21, 1976
Where are you from:
I was born in Baton Rouge Louisiana and lived there until I was 11. I now live in Brazoria, Texas.
A little about your self `ie your education, Family, life etc:
I am married with three kids. The older two have graduated and moved out but my 9yr old keeps me busier than both of them put together.
Tell us your latest book news?
Charlotte (MH2) was released on Sept. 25th. It was an exciting book for me because it was my first time to write about someone other than Ren.
When and why did you begin writing?
It was something I always wanted to do. I had written things here and there but never sat down and put everything together to write a book. It just happened that it was the right time in my life to be able to focus and get it all down.
When did you consider yourself an Author?
When my first book was published, I think.
What inspired you to write your first book?
There was a short story I write in high school that I planned on turning into a book one day. However, it took 15 years to get it together so I would say my first book is 'loosely' based on that.
Do you have a specific writing style?
I think so but I couldn't tell you what it is.
How did you come up with the titles?
Usually I try to pull it from somewhere in there book or use the overall theme.
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
The main thing I hope to convey is while our flaws often make us who we are, they do not define us.
How much of the book is realistic?
I try to make my books as realistic as possible but they are strictly fiction.
Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?
Indirectly, sure.
What books have most influenced your life most?
The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
Ann of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
The Complete Works of Edgar Allan Poe
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
We write in different genera's and styles but I have to say Arial Burnz. She's really honest and straightforward about all aspects of being an author. She truly is an awesome lady and a great writer too.
What book are you reading now?
ARC of Stolen Innocence (Shadow Series) by Addison Kline
Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
I don't know if I would consider her new but I just finished Bait by M. Mabie and she grasped me alright!
What are your current projects?
Penny's book (MH3) is currently in progress. I'm hoping to have it out around the first of the year.
Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members:
The indie author community, they are so amazing and supportive.
Do you see writing as a career?
yes
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
Nope :) I love Charlotte just the way she is.
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
When I wrote my first short story in high school, I just fell in love with creating the characters.
Can you share a little of your current work with us?
Sure! Marked Heart is a standalone series with interconnecting characters. Penny is mentioned in Enduring Everything and is a strong side character in Charlotte. She is sweet, sincere and for the most part looks at the brighter side of things. Basically she likes to be happy. Penny loves her friends and family but she isn't very good at relationships. With her best friend married to one of her brother's just having had a baby, her roommate engaged and about to be married and her latest boyfriend dumping her, she's feeling a bit lonely. Taking a step back to do some self-evaluation, she decides to lay off of dating for a while. So when she gets a new neighbor, Penny decides they are going to be friends, whether he likes it or not.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
Probably, naming places. I know it sounds silly but for some reason I have a hard time with attaching actual names with stores and restaurants etc.
Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
I have 3 -
Edith Wharton-Age of Innocence to this day is the most romantic book I've ever read. There is something about anticipation that makes a book exciting for me to read.
L.M. Montgomery-Ann of Green Gables is my all-time favorite book. It inspired my love of reading.
The Complete Works of Edgar Allan Poe because he was always able to set a scene and bring it to life. Not to mention there are many morals to each of his stories.
Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?
I work out of an office at my house but I will be attending DITH in Austin Tx. this coming February. It is my first book signing so it is really exciting for me.
Who designed the covers?
Me
What was the hardest part of writing your books?
The editing process... Luckily, I have my editor Margaret from Eye Review. She keeps me in line.
Did you learn anything from writing your books?
There is always room for improvement and to grow in my craft.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
Take your time, hire an editor, learn how to take criticism with grace and always remember, you write for those who enjoy your work not the ones who don't.
Do your have anything specific you would like to say to your readers?
I appreciate the time y'all take to read my books! Without Readers my books would never see the light of day. I am truly grateful for each and every one of you!
Do you remember the first book you ever read?
I do! It was Bears First Christmas and I can remember thinking, 'Wow I'm reading'.
Other than writing do you have any hobbies?
I love to make swag for giveaways but aside from that, I mostly spend time with my family when I'm not writing.
What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?
I don't watch TV but I do enjoy action and comedy movies the most.
Favorite foods / Colors/ Music:
Olives & Feta/Green/Alternative
If you were not a writer what else would you like to have done?
No idea... More than likely what I already do just without writing. I can't think of anything else I ever REALLY wanted to do.
Do you have a blog/website? If so please share your links.
Yes! www.BrokenBirdMedia.com
Are you on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest etc. Please share those links also.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorM.Sembera
amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_athr_dp_sr_1?_encoding=UTF8&field-author=M.%20Sembera&search-alias=digital-text&sort=relevancerank
goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4707427.M_Sembera
twitter: https://twitter.com/M_Sembera
google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/107595295959820500628
Instagram: http://instagram.com/m_sembera
Please share your book covers:
Marked Heart Series
#1 #2
Cover reveal for #3 Penny's book will take place in Dec 2014
The Rennillia Series
Prequel Novelette Series
Please provide a personal picture of yourself or one of your favorite photos.
Thank you so much for the interview questions and for sharing my work! <3 M.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
PHOTOGRAPHER SPOTLIGHT
James Guest
Birth date: April
1st
Where are you from:
Louisville, KY
A little about your
self `ie your education, Family, life etc: I was born and raised in
Louisville Kentucky. I’ve been married for 12 years. We have 4
children; Destiny 13, James Jr. 12, Gabrielle 10, and Bella 5.
Tell us your latest
photography news? The most recent news is being the official
photographer for the Centennial Festival of Riverboats. I was able to
photograph the Belle of Louisville’s 100th birthday. I
have had two photos published in magazines; the cover of S&D
Reflector and in the November issue of Kentucky Monthly.
When and why did you
begin photography (Taking Pictures)? I got into photography as a way
to get out of the house after my leg was crushed at work. For the
first two years after the accident I did nothing but sit around which
caused my health to deteriorate. I then decided that I needed to find
a way to get moving again. Photography is like a natural medicine for
me. It has been the only thing that I have been able to find that I
enjoy and is able to take my mind off the pain, even if for just a
little while.
When did you
consider yourself an Photographer? I really don’t know. There are
times when I still don’t consider myself an “actual”
photographer. I go out and create photos because I love to do it. It
still amazes me that people follow my photography on Facebook and
want to purchase them.
What inspired you to
take your first photo? My family. I wanted to take every precious
moment with them and preserve it so that I could always go back and
relive that memory.
Do you have a
specific photographic style? Not really. It honestly depends on what
mood I am in at that time. Some of my photos and edits may reflect
how I am feeling at that moment. So the style is constantly changing.
Is there a message
in your pictures? Yes there is. The message is mostly to myself
though. I let others interpret the photos however they like. What I
meant by the message mostly being to myself is that no matter what is
wrong in any given moment beauty still exists all around.
What other
photographers have most influenced your life most? Honestly, before I
started photography I did not even know who Ansel Adams was. I really
had no influence.
If you had to choose, which person would you consider a mentor? I
can’t say on here because if my wife reads it she will get a big
head. That’s off the record right?
Are there any new
sites that have grasped your interest? I would really love to go to
Ireland for a photography trip. I do have a goal to photograph all 50
states sometime in the future.
What are your
current projects? That is TOP SECRET. Just kidding. I have some
thoughts for a few shoots but nothing worth mentioning.
Name one entity that
you feel supported you outside of family members: I can name almost
3,000; my followers on Facebook.
Do you see
photography as a career? No I see it as my passion.
If you had to do it
all over again, would you change anything? I would have started
photography sooner.
Do you recall how
your interest in photography originated? I’ve always liked creating
photos. I just never pursued it until after I was hurt.
Can you share a
little of your current work with us?
Is there anything
you find particularly challenging in your work? I find many things
challenging about it. For example, creating the shot that you need
during the golden hour. Most people have eight hours to get a job
done while I only have one, if I am lucky.
Do you have to
travel much concerning your work? Yes. I am constantly going to
locations for a shoot.
What was the hardest
part of photography? Creating that one in a million shot of course.
Did you learn
anything from photography? Indeed I have. I have learned to slow down
and look at the world around me. I now notice things that I never
took the time to notice before.
Do you have any
advice for other photogs? Shoot what you love.
Do your have
anything specific you would like to say to your fans? I never thought
of myself as having fans. But, I would like to thank all of the
people who like the photos that I create for taking time out of their
busy days to see the world through my eyes. I cannot even begin to
express my gratitude to those who helped me get where I am today.
Other than
photography do you have any hobbies? Nope.
What TV shows/films
do you enjoy watching? I really enjoy The Walking Dead and The Game
of Thrones. Other than that I really don’t watch TV.
Favorite foods /
Colors/ Music: Food: Anything without a hair in it, I really don’t
discriminate when it comes to eating. Colors: Green. Music: I listen
to pretty much everything except rap and country.
If you were not a
photographer what else would you like to have done? I wanted to be a
police officer before I got hurt at work.
Do you have a
blog/website? If so please share your links. Not at the moment, I’m
currently deciding if I want a website.
Are you on Facebook,
Twitter, Pinterest etc. Please share those links also.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/James-G-Photography/124856084351005?ref=hl
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