My tips for preparing for book events
A little advance planning goes a long way...
I love doing book events, which is why I load up my schedule starting in May and running through October. (I live in northeastern Ohio, so I’m not crazy enough to schedule winter events if I can help it!)
It takes some planning, usually six months in advance, and then there is the endless follow-up to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Now that MOVING MAGGIE is out, this is my 10th book that I’m taking on the road, and with each one, I have refined the process a bit more in the interest of my sanity. (Someday I hope to have a PA to go with me, but for now, it’s all me!)
Just to give you an idea of where I’m going, here’s the link to all my events so far. At least this year, I’m sticking fairly close to home, only crossing into PA for a few events. Last year, I road-tripped to NC, and that took a lot more time and effort, not to mention trying to fit everything in the rental car and still be able to see out the back window!
Here are some tips if you are doing book events, just to make it easier on you and the store!
Don’t wait until the last minute to book a signing. As soon as I know my book is in the store’s system, I call for a signing date. Then, I follow up via email to confirm the date and time, and provide any information or artwork they asked for. (You should have all your book covers on your website available as downloadable images.)
Have a document that lists your website URL, all your social media links and handles, all your titles with retail prices and ISBNs, a brief bio (in case the store will introduce you over the loudspeaker) and all your contact information. Print it out and bring it with you.
If you’re bringing your own stock, create a second document that lists each title’s retail price and ISBN, a line for starting inventory, a line for ending inventory and a line for total sold. Bring two copies—one for the store and one for you. (I’ve been told by more than one B&N that they love this! It keeps everything straight and makes it easier for them to input the info on their form.)
If the store will be sending you a check after the event, provide the mailing address and exactly how the check should be made out. (I have mine made out to my business since everything goes into the business checking account.)
Prepare any table signage, keeping in mind that you may have to adjust your display if the table is small.
Make sure you have bookmarks and a notebook so you can write down the person’s name and any notes about the interaction. Trust me—you won’t remember later!
Have something eye-catching so people can easily locate your table. I am a firm believer in using balloons because they are cheap and can usually be spotted at a distance.
If the store is ordering books, verify the status at least a month ahead of schedule, then two weeks before the event. But always bring your own stock! (Besides, if you screw up when you’re signing a book, you have a spare.)
Check the store’s website and/or social page to see 1) if your upcoming appearance is listed, and 2) if the information is correct. If the store hasn’t listed your event, contact them and ask if they are going to. Then double-check when it’s done. Mistakes (wrong name, wrong date, wrong time, wrong book) happen.
Get a cart to carry everything. I started with a small wheeled bin and now have graduated to one much larger—that’s what happens when you have 10 books out!—that can handle two bins with lids. I also bring several lawn-and-garden-size trash bags to drape over everything, just in case it rains or snows.
Those are my tips. Have I missed any? What do you bring to book events?