Preparing for a Writer's Conference

 

Last year at this time I made the decision to attend my first writer's conference! I registered for the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) Conference in Dallas, Texas.

  

Right before the Gala Awards Dinner in 2012

It was one of the best decisions I've made for my writing career.

 

Before I went, I wanted to make sure I was as prepared as possible. I perused countless blogs looking for everything I would need to know about a writing conference. My thought was that I would be less nervous if I knew what to expect.

 

I had the right idea. I went to the conference fully prepared...but I still felt nervous--it just goes with the territory! I was also excited and anxious--but above all, I felt hopeful.

The first night I had supper with all these fabulous ladies!

I think the biggest reason we go to a conference is because we have hope--and we should. We have hope that we'll get the break we've been longing for. Where else can we meet with a wide range of agents and editors? Where else can we learn, first-hand, about the industry? It's a fabulous event for any writer, aspiring or published.

 

This year I'm going back to the ACFW Conference with a lot more experience, less nerves, but just as much hope.

 

Since last year, I signed with a fabulous agent, received amazing feedback from editors, and finaled in a prestigious writing contest. But as of right now, I haven't signed a book contract...which means I'll be pitching to editors again this year.

Yes, agented authors still have to pitch at writing conferences! It's the best way to meet an editor and to put a face with a name.

 

My first pitching appointment last year!
The lovely editor I'm chatting with
sent me this wonderful picture.

Once again, I'm going to the conference fully prepared. I have arrived at quite a few milestones on my writing journey this year, but I know I have a long way to go.

 

Over the next several Mondays I plan to share some of my conference experiences from last year. I will talk about what surprised me, what I wished I would have known before I went, what I would have done different and what I plan to do the same. I'll also talk about all those things unique to a writer's conference like business cards, one-sheets, pitching appointments, thank you notes (that an agent & editor will remember) and all the extras.

 

Your Turn: If you've been to a writer's conference, how did you feel going the first time? If you haven't been to a writer's conference, what would you like to know? If you're going to ACFW, how are you feeling right now?