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Book conventions, fairs, and festivals are popping up everywhere these days! No matter what kind of book you've written, there's a group of fans out there just waiting to dive into something fresh and exciting. These events are fantastic opportunities for both readers and authors. Readers absolutely love meeting their favorite authors and stumbling upon new books. Meanwhile, authors get the chance to showcase their work and grow their author brands.

Some of you may be seasoned pros at these events, but if you're a newbie just starting out, you might be curious about what to expect. We've put together a handy list to get you ready. Even if some tips seem like common sense, it's easy to overlook the basics when you're off on a new adventure!

Be Sure to Pack

• Plan accordingly based on the type of convention you're attending when deciding how many to bring. Bring enough books, but don't overcrowd your table. Just a few at a time on your table will do. It’s a great way to show that your books are popular and flying off the table.
• If you have an entire book series, bring copies of all the books, as many readers are looking for the immersive experience a series offers. If one book draws them in, they're likely to want to buy the whole series.

• Freebies/Swag
  • People love free stuff! Not only will this attract readers to your table, but it'll also help spread the word about you and your work long after the convention. The more unique your item, the more people will want it! 

  • Choose your swag based on what works for your budget. If you're feeling a bit fancy, you might go for magnets with your book cover or pens with your website on them. For a more budget-friendly choice, consider printing stickers that feature your book cover, quotes, pictures of the main characters, or fun sayings related to your book or genre.

  • Offer a fun way to explore your work for free, whether it's your latest book or other titles you've written. Print bookmarks or postcards with a QR code that lets them dive into your excerpts online. 

     Here's a tutorial on how to create QR codes.
• A Guestbook/Sign-up Sheet
  

  • If you have a newsletter, make it easy for visitors to sign up right at your table.

  • Have a fun giveaway for your books or merchandise, and everyone who signs up at the conference gets a chance to win.

• Pens and Markers

  • People are definitely going to want signed copies of your books, so make sure to pack a bunch of pens or markers that you like using. It's always a good idea to have extras, just in case.

• A Payment Processor
  • Attendees are looking for hassle-free payment options at these events, and you want to be able to accommodate several types of payment. Consider secure, seamless payment methods such as Stripe, Square, or PayPal. 
  • Be sure to offer at least one payment method that doesn't rely on Wifi, just in case there are issues in a venue full of people using Wifi.
• The Basics
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Water bottle and basic snacks
  • Power bank for recharging your electronic devices
  • Book stands/easels

Stand Out in the Crowd

If you find yourself with a table or booth among a sea of other authors, you'll want to make sure you stand out and grab people's attention!

• Make Sure Your Table is Eye-Catching

  • Use a table cover that shows off your brand and includes the colors of your book cover(s). Aim for a look that's cohesive, classy, and unforgettable.

  • Try using an online design tool like Canva or Adobe Express to create some fun and colorful visuals for your table. At the very least, make sure you have a sign that clearly shows the price of your book(s).

  • Showcase your latest release front and center, and display your other books in a fun and creative way, like fanning them out or using a few small book easels. 

  • If you have a book trailer, keep it running on a loop on a laptop or iPad. It doesn't have to be fancy or professionally made, it just needs to grab people's attention and pull them in.
  • Post your banners or balloons higher than attendee's heads so that your table is easier to find in a room full of people.
• Offer Interactive Activities

  • Set up a fun photo opportunity related to your book, like a photo booth, frame, or themed backdrop. And if you're in costume, folks will probably love snapping a picture with you.

  • Have a game that visitors can easily participate in such as a short trivia challenge about themes related to your book or spinning a wheel for a chance to win some special swag.
• Be Approachable and Available

  • One of the things people will remember long after the event is how you presented yourself and interacted with others. Be sure to smile and chat with people as they pass by. Instead of overwhelming them with details about your book right away, show them that you're friendly and approachable.

  • You don't have to go all out in what you wear, but it might be fun to wear something that matches the vibe of your table. Try to incorporate the colors from your book cover or decor in your look.

  • Put your best foot forward to share your book (and yourself) with those who are curious. It's not just about selling books; it's also about making connections and growing your brand.

  • Polish up your sales pitch—people are more interested in a quick, exciting glimpse of your book rather than the whole backstory. Try sharing a fun, two-sentence teaser for those curious to learn more. 

  • If you get the chance, hop onto any panels happening at the convention! It's a great way for potential readers to spot you, get to know you better, and be drawn to your table.

Give Them a Special Incentive to Buy

• Offer special promotions or discounts just for the event

  • Use IngramSpark’s Share & Sell purchase links to offer special prices on your books just for those attending. Place a sign next to your books with a QR code and a friendly note inviting them to scan and buy now. Also, have some postcards or bookmarks with a QR code for readers to take home, so they can easily purchase more of your titles later.

Hopefully this info helps you feel more comfortable and confident about attending your first conference or book event. Think of it as a fun opportunity rather than a challenge, and you'll find it's a great way to boost your confidence, make new friends, and naturally increase your book sales.