Preparing for a Book Event

Preparing for a book event isn’t that difficult as long as you plan ahead.

As an author you may want to share your words of wisdom with as many people as you can. I like to get creative with my event planning and I have learned some important things along the way.

When Preparing for a book event one of the first things to consider is what type of events do you want to do? Are these events good for your niche? Will they grow your following? Will they be fun?

You also want to ask yourself when preparing for a book event if you want to stay with online events or go live? Personally, for my niche (pet loss) a combination is perfect. And for each event I am clear with my goals and expectations.

I am happy to share with you some of the things I have learned a long the way when preparing for a book event.

But before we get started know that live events can boost your following beyond any expectations you may have.

The main thing to consider is how you present yourself, your brand, and your books.

What to Ask:

Whether you are contacting a host or they found you there could be many variables. Not everyone runs his or her event in the same way.

Some are super organized and take care of their vendors and others…well not so much. When you interview your host you will know if that event is right for you and how much you need to do and bring.

Questions to consider in order planning ahead:

What are the main interests of the people that come to their event?
How have authors done in the past?
Is there anyone else selling books like yours?
How much space will you get?
How much advertising do they do and where?
What is your cost if any for being a vendor?
How many people usually attend their event?
Do they provide electricity?
Do they provide tables, chairs, and table cover?
Is there food available? Water?
Is there someone available to help you transport and set up your display?

Preparing:

Now that you have your event secured and it feels right for your book and brand it is time to begin preparing. Don’t wait until a week before to do these tasks. Its better if you plan ahead and have a special place where you can store all your display items.

Order bookmarks that advertise your book/brand.
Have business cards made.
Have a banner made.
Mind map your table design.
Think about how you are going to display your books.
Order enough books.
Decide what you are going to wear…does it match your book/brand?
How are you going to display your books?

What to Bring:

I make a list of everything I need to bring so I don’t forget anything. This includes things to entertain me when the traffic flow is light.

I transport everything I can into two carry-on suitcases for ease if I have to park far away.

A few things I never forget are the dog, cat, and people treats. I offer something small and healthy. Offering a dog bone or a mint is a great way to get people to stop.

Another is a free gift. My 94-year-old mother and her friends made me red hearts on a white yarn string. People can write the name of their pet on the heart to take with them.

Don’t forget…

Sign-up sheet for folks to give you their email for book updates.
Pens for people to sign your sign up sheet.
Suitcases to carry your stuff.
White tablecloth to cover your table.
Treats for the dogs, cats and people are a great way to start a conversation.
Extension cord, just in case you want lights.
Chair just in case they don’t have enough.
Table just in case.

Follow up:

There are two things I find to be simple and extremely helpful when you want to build followers.

Remember to carry out a simple act of gratitude and kindness to your host and those that signed your sign-up sheet.

On the day after the event so you don’t loose momentum do the following…

Thank your host with a phone call and/or email
Thank your sign-ups with a special email to them

What are some of the things that you would include when preparing for a book event? If you are not sure please schedule a quick clarity call with me.

Wendy Van de Poll is a twelve-time best-selling author on Amazon. She works with authors on all aspects of self-publishing. The genre’s she writes in are pet loss, children’s picture books, human-animal bond, and cozy mysteries. You can reach her to talk about your new project. You can also visit me at Center for Pet Loss Grief