The marketing of a book is an ever evolving, actually, never ending process. As writers, we’re always looking for more and different ways to present our work. My associate and I, after creating All Ways A Woman, explored locations, organizations, retail settings, and gatherings like Girlfriend Afternoons and book groups. We kept our eyes and ears open for new venues, trying always to think beyond the usual.
The ongoing process took (takes) contacting organizations, talking to people, visiting sites, texting, emails, letter writing, and … talking to people. (Did I already mention that?) And after presenting our work a few times, we received invitations and referrals. There are no guarantees in this process. Some events will be highly successful, some moderately successful, and others, not so much. But always your work is out there.
It’s wise to be affiliated with a local writers’ organization, always a source for networking, referrals, contacts, ideas, education, and events. The Desert Writers Expo, sponsored by the Palm Springs Writers Guild, happens to be the next event on the itinerary for All Ways A Woman.
In our constant quest for venues, we’ve compiled this list of places where we’ve presented and sold our work:
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Champagne book signings in private homes
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Book talks and readings at book clubs
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Book talks and readings at museums
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Book talks and readings at libraries
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Book talks and readings at local organizations and women’s clubs
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Book tables in retail settings e.g. Pottery Barn and The Wine Emporium
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Book Expos
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Art Shows (In its tribute to women, the book combines art and poetry.)
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Book talks and readings at galleries
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Book stocked in retail stores e.g. The La Quinta Museum Store
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Online on Amazon
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Facebook All Ways A Woman page
The important idea is to keep putting your book out into the public flow of events. We’re always open to and looking for new ideas. Maybe you’ve found one or two here you can use. If you’d like to share what you’ve found successful with your work, we’d love to hear about it! And as always, happy writing and happy marketing.
And whoops! A friend just reminded me to add independent coffee shops to that list. Thanks, Eve.
Another friend has suggested spas. Thanks, Jim.
It sounds like you have put together a great plan! Your book is so unique and beautiful; I can’t imagine anyone seeing it not wanting to have one on their coffee table.
Thanks, Danielle. We keep evaluating the plan as to what works and what doesn’t.