Looking for advice
Good morning, Friends!
Last week’s news of having a book signing has been very exciting. I’d really like to know how you other authors have managed to pull this off! Although this meet and greet is thrilling, it has caused so many different feelings that I almost feel paralyzed by them. So much so that this newsletter took a back seat this week. I finally concluded that this must be what needs to get the ink right now. Sometimes the only way I can move forward is removing the chaos from my own head and getting out my own way.
What if no one comes? My own insecurities make social gatherings uncomfortable. Have I talked to everyone? What if there are awkward moments of silence? I can feel my face getting flushed and steam coming off my body already. The room could be 30 degrees, but I would still need a fan in this state. A good friend suggested imagining the event as if it already happened. Who would be there? What would I say to everyone? Think, “I’m so happy it went so well” and imagine how it went, instead of how it will be. She helped me decide what I really want to say. I hope I do a good job of conveying how My Prosthetic Life has evolved. It has become so much bigger than exposing myself to judgment from friends and strangers alike.
What does a book signing look like? I go right to the literal appearance and organizational aspect of the event. How many books should I bring? How should they be placed on the table? What else should be on the table? Oh – pens would be good! Panic sets in until I realize I can ask for help. I just happen to have a friend who can not only organize space but make it beautiful while she’s at it. Enter my bestie, Lorri. Breathe…ok…it’s going to be ok.
My oldest and dearest friend, Claudia is also flying in from Wisconsin specifically for this event. How will other people know about this event, though? Do I make flyers? If so, where do I take them? Do I advertise on social media? Where else should I get the word out? Will anyone remember to come? Is it a good day? Time? I don’t know about you, but I’m driving MYSELF crazy. Why do I worry so much when I have support like this from my friends?! I am one grateful lunatic!
Amid all this – I have been gathering information again – I found a cute giveaway idea. Although I am not a crafty person, these bookmarks looked easy enough, even for me, to make. The image above shows the first two I’ve created. They are customized for the recipients, but the rest will be different themes and colors. Would you like one?
If you haven’t deciphered the message yet, my point is, I don’t have all the answers right now and the event is four weeks away. This is what I do. Plan things to death. I want to be prepared as much as possible, so I don’t feel what I feel now at the time of the event. That means having to ask for help.
Here's where you all come in. I am going outside of my comfort zone and asking for help. I would love to hear your thoughts, ideas, recommendations, or any other tidbits you may have. Your shared experience and hope are encouraged!
HELP!
Hi Lady! I bet a book signing is frightening! Where are you going to hold it? I'll come, and spread the word! Take a writing tablet or laptop so you can look hard at work if the line disappears for a little while. I saw the greatest pic of a book signing - the author put a vase of flowers on the table and her accent colors in her outfit matched the color of the flowers. She had a wall display of her books behind her and then more on the table. It looked great.