Getting ready for a #sci fi #Conference @SciFiValleyCon !

Since I'm getting ready for this fun event, I thought I'd share my checklist with you. This is what I bring to an event:

• Display - I get lots of compliments on my table, but sometimes I wonder if it's too much - the point is to sell books, not just look pretty... but it does catch their attention. For purely book events I bring less, but for this sci fi con, I'm going all out!
• Banner(s) - and for this event I'm bringing my photo props!
  
• Black Tablecloth
• Book stands or rack, depends on how much room I have.
• Candy dish, Card holder, Jewelry stands
• Figures - dragon, mermaid, etc, depending on room
• Newsletter signup clipboard
• Raffle bag - depends on the crowd
• Swag - Free stuff with my name & books on it. Hopefully they'll look at it one more time before they toss it... (so don't spend much money on this stuff unless it's useful!)

• Bookmarks - a staple, and I put one series on each side to save on cost
• Postcards - I use postcards to advertise future books or anthologies, and I don't print a ton, it doesn't hurt!
• Author cards - a must, connections are imperative!
• Candy - I attach stickers with my name/books when possible. Candy brings traffic to the table
• Pens - useful, have my name on them, not too expensive
• Magnets - new for this event, they were reasonable and they're useful!
• Bracelets, notepads - these are not free! But I display them to get attention and give them away with the books, helps seal the deal sometimes!
• Gift Bags - I put labels on gift bags for people to carry their purchases from me and I also offer bags if someone is heavy laden - free advertising!
• Me and My Books!
• What to wear - I'm always comfortable, but I do like to add a little flair...
• For bookfairs, I dress business casual, plus add a little glitter in the hair or extra eye makeup
• For Cons like this one, I'll be going dragon - with bigger eye makeup, wings, and possibly a tail if I get around to finishing it!
• the BOOKS!
• I inventory my supply early in case I have to order more
• I bring a box and a half of books, not too many but enough. I've never sold out, but I do sell more every time I go somewhere, so that's positive. This is a bigger event, but most folks are coming for the art, comics, and celebrities. I keep it reasonable and light.

Well, that gives you an idea of how I get ready for a book event. If you have any suggestions or questions - I'm all ears! I'd love to hear about an event you've done or are planning for.

I'm only bringing one extra box of books, not all of them!

Wish me luck!