A Book Signing

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas . . . and a great time for a Book Signing party!  To introduce my recently published book, “288 Chances”, we organized a local Book Signing / Holiday Party that turned out to be a great success.  The event was held at a private residence on Sunday afternoon, December 8th.  Guests arrived to quiet Christmas music playing throughout, the aroma of hot apple cider and a beautifully decorated holiday home, complete with twinkling white lights inside and out - - and even some real snow. 

I had plenty of books on hand ready for signing.  I designed and printed business cards for guests to pick up as they came through the line.  On the front of the card, I included information on where the book is available for purchase, both in paperback and as an e-book for download.  On the back side, I chose an excerpt from my book to give readers a sample of the writings I included.

 

 

I put together an “Inspiration Station” for guests to visit if they chose to.  I offered some printed informational postcards, free for the taking, and also shared some printed articles that outlined some valuable tips and inspirational quotes on writing.  I also created a PowerPoint presentation that played continuously during the 3-hour event, which showed highlights from my book and where I shared some insight on finding the courage to share my words with others.

We offered an assortment of goodies, much appreciated by our guests.

Each guest signed in when they arrived.  We had a drawing at the end of our event and gave away this gift basket to one lucky visitor, which included a complimentary signed copy of my book, some chocolate, a spiced candle and a glass mug with the makings for a cup of hot cocoa or some chamomile tea.  

The next day, the local newspapers published a photo and short article on the event.  All in all, it was a very successful afternoon.  Smaller, more personal group book signings are a great way to put the word out on your book at the local level.  A little planning and organization and you have the opportunity to spread the word about your book in a very positive way.

Here is an interesting article from Authority Publishing.com that may be helpful to you when you plan YOUR first book signing.  It addresses how you might want to personalize your book when signing.

How to Autograph Books: Book Signing Tips for New Authors By Stephanie Chandler

Recently a new author asked me how she should handle autographing her books. It took me back to when I had published my first book, remembering how awkward it felt to sign copies. I also thought about my first business—a bookstore—where we flipped through used books in search of autographs (the equivalent of a literary jackpot!). Some were short and sweet with just a name, while others had more personal inscriptions. Here are some simple tips to help you prepare to autograph your books!

1. Decide where to sign. I like to sign my books on the title page, which is where most books are autographed, though you can also sign the inside cover. In some cases, you may want to sign the front cover, though this is rare and would probably only be appropriate for a coffee table book or something that will be on display.

2. Personalize your message. In most cases people want the book inscribed to them personally, though sometimes it’s intended as a gift so be sure to ask, “Should I sign this to you?” Use their first name and always ask for the spelling since even common names can have unusual spellings. If you have time, try to personalize your message in some way: “It was great meeting you at the XYZ conference” or “I enjoyed learning about your business…”

3. Choose a signature phrase. Ideally you should have one to three phrases that you write each time you sign a book so you don’t have to think too hard! Your message can also be memorable and should fit within the space allotted. When I’m not pressed for time, I sign my books: “Wishing you abundant joy and success.” If a line of people are waiting I simply write “Best wishes.” Here are some others: All my best Thanks In gratitude To your health Much appreciation Warm wishes Best regards Onward Your friend Etc…

4. Make sure your name is legible. Consider the fact that someday your book could be a collector’s item! Even if it isn’t, do you want to leave any doubt that you’re the one who signed it? If needed, practice writing your name so that it is at least partially legible. You should also sign first and last name unless your name is Madonna or Cher.

5. Add a date (optional). Admittedly I usually omit the date—mostly because I can never remember what day it is! But recipients will appreciate it when you date your inscription.

6. Use a good pen. I’ll never forget the day I was signing books and the only pen I had on me was one of those cheap stick pens I picked up from a hotel room. Though it got the job done, I didn’t feel like it demonstrated how serious I am about my work. For those of you who autograph the cover or inside cover, a good Sharpie will probably be your best choice. For everyone else, do yourself a favor and invest in a nice pen. It doesn’t matter if the ink is blue or black, if the barrel is thick or thin, just choose something that you love and that makes you feel like an author! (Oh, and make sure the ink dries quickly!)

Happy writing!

Thanks for visiting!

Brenda  :)