Monday and Tuesday of this week, I had the joy of attending the Christian Product Expo in Lancaster, PA. I went with CAN (Christian Authors Network), who was hosting the breakfast on Tuesday. Each author sat at a different table so we could chat with the retailers. After that, we each gave a five minute speech. And then we all had books to sign and give away to the retailers.
This is the first trade show I’ve ever attended–the closest thing to it was the Home School Fair I went to last spring. Otherwise all my big events have been writers conferences, so this was a great new experience for me–a glimpse into another, critical side of the industry. It was so interesting to sit at the tables and heard the store owners talk about how they got into this, how long their stores have been open, what they use for engraving, what sells best in their stores, how much they charge for certain things . . .
But of course, one thing I really loved was hearing, “Oh, that’s where I know you’re name! I carry your book!” and “The Love Finds You line is so popular!” =)
Though for me, the absolute best part was the signing. Getting to chat with each and every retailer, seeing where they were from. I had a box of Love Finds You in Annapolis to give away, and also a box each of Jewel of Persia and A Stray Drop of Blood. I knew going in that most of them would already carry the LFY line, and none would carry the WhiteFire titles. So I was really, really intrigued to see that they were just as interested in my Biblical titles as Annapolis. =) One retailer apparently even started reading JoP during the morning activities and was raving about it over lunch, LOL.
I think so often we get caught up in OUR part of the world, our specialty, our corner, that we tend to be oblivious to the other sides. Or at least I am. 😉 This reminder that those other sides of the coin are still part of the same was wonderful. To realize that we’re all working toward the same end, joint parts in the body of Christ, striving to do the same things–reach others for Him, and tend His flock. It was an experience I’m eager to repeat, and one that will affect how I see my own side of the coin from now on.
Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award winning author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary.
What fascinating conversations to listen in on! The chance to connect with retailers is priceless.
Blogger tried to mark your comment as spam, Tammy, but I rescued it. 😉
Love to hear that they're raving! Thanks so much for recommending my books to them. That's awesome. =) I hope you've been well!
I took a little blogging break and have missed your posts. This is very good one to come back too. Thanks for sharing about the other side of the coin—very interesting indeed. I plan to post soon about comments I've received about my book recommendation to the ladies at my church who read my blog. They rave about your books! I'll tell you when I finally get it done.
Blessings!
LOL. At the moment you are very well poised to win one in the drawing for the big giveaway in ten days, Kathleen. =) You've definitely commented more than anyone else this round!
And I adore you for it, my friend. =)
Thank you for sharing with us. That was very interesting. Did one of your Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland get stuck in a box corner that you found when you got home? I would like to have an autographed copy! 🙂 Kathleen
lanehillhouse[at]centurylink[dot]net
Sounds VERY cool! And I'm not surprised folks were raving about JoP. I've done it myself 😉
Well, it's not for selling books–publishers and other product-makers rent booths that the retailers can visit to learn about new products. I went with an organization that's working on establishing a relationship with the host company of the event. So it was all giveaways . . . but a great chance to meet people!
Wish there had been something like that i my area when i was selling books. Although i did meet quite a few super authors!
Sounds wonderful!!