It’s been a week since I attended my first Romance Writers of America national conference and I am just now putting it all into perspective.
There is no way I could have been prepared! The speakers were wonderful and the sessions amazing. I think my favorite events were the author signings and the PRO retreat.
Walking into the Harlequin signing and having Nana Malone as the first face I see was so exciting. I had a major fan girl moment, meeting an author whose work I’ve admired for so long made my day. Then, I turn around and its Sarah M. Anderson! If you haven’t read her Men of the White Sandy Series, GET THEM RIGHT NOW!
Let me continue my Sara love fest for a moment. Sara welcomed me to the conference, sought me out several times throughout the week for a quick chat and always had a warm smile and wave whenever our paths crossed. For a newbie overwhelmed at her first conference this meant everything! I want to be her when I grow up!
Were there queen bees and wanna bees? Yes. Should I be surprised? No. Here are my conference survival tips.
- Be yourself – If you’re a jeans and t-shirt kind of gal, don’t go out and buy a suit.
- Manners matter – shake hands, introduce yourself and look people in the eye.
- Take breaks – the conference is hard work, build downtime into your schedule.
- Bring a wingman – If you can, try to attend the conference with a friend.
- Relax, take in the moment and enjoy yourself!
I left the conference feeling more confident about who I am as a writer. I’m more knowledgeable about the industry and I have a better idea of the career path that will be right for me. At the end of the day I’m glad I went.
So the fun is over and now it’s time to get back to writing. A lot has been going on my tiny town of Colton Mississippi. I’m pretty sure my ghost, Ada Mae, was up to no good while I was gone!
Eliana West 