Post-Romanticonn 2023 reflections

Yesterday, the Romanticon 2023 book signing occurred in Trumbull. This was my second time attending the event and I am so glad I did.

I got to meet a whole passel of new-to-me-readers, reconnected with some wonderful author-friends and did a hefty amount of book sales. All good things.

And now as I write this at 3:44 a.m. in my hotel room, I am bone-tired – physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Here’s what people ( readers) may not realize.

Attending an event like this for an author is exhausting! Schlepping all your books, paraphernalia, book racks, swag, giveaways, preorders, table settings, is a monumental task, especially for someone like me on the other side of 60 and with no help. I travel to these events solo and it falls on me to get everything together and set up. I’m not complaining – please don’t think that – but it is a lot of physical work. You want your table to appear welcoming, not cluttered, to draw the new-to-you-reader in, but not inundate them, and to appear professional yet approachable and fun all at the same time.

For an introverted hermit like me, that last part is anxiety-producing and exhausting! LOL

Then, there’s the actual event.

Four hours may not seem like a lot to someone, but believe me, when you are standing, trying to make small talk, trying to entice people to buy your book, all the while the noise level in the big room you are in is deafening around you, it feels more like 20! Again, not complaining, just stating the reality of the situation.

But…the positives far outweigh any perceived negatives.

Yesterday, I reconnected with several people, both authors, and readers, I haven’t seen since prior to our pandemic traveling shutdown. Some, it’s been 4 years. That’s a lot of time. Yes, we are all a little older, some of us are more tired ( that would be me!) but it was delightful to see old friends again. And it was glorious to meet new authors and readers. I feel like my friendship circle grew tenfold yesterday.

As I write this, with my voice gone, my feet aching, and my back dreading the long drive – solo- home today, I am still thrilled I attended. This hasn’t been the best year for me so far, and I tend to isolate myself when I’m stuck in my feelings. Being out and about with people -people I consider extended family – truly helped reorient my brain back to a positive sphere.

So, a huge THANK YOU to organizer Kitty Berry and all her wonderful girl-pals who helped out on this glorious affair. It is a well-oiled and precision-practiced event that runs beautifully and gives all who attend the satisfaction of a day well spent.

Now, to pack and then get on the road home.

Be well, kids! ~ Peg

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Published on July 09, 2023 01:00
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