Until about noon today, I was all set to attend RWA 2010 in Nashville. The blogs, tweets, and photos I saw last summer convinced me that I would get a lot out of the conference as a “mere reader”. At RWA, I could meet bloggers and other fellow readers, meet authors, enjoy keynote sessions (something tells me you didn’t have to be a romance novelist to appreciate Linda Howard’s talk). Plus, I am very interested in writing and genre questions, and a look at the RWA list of workshops told me that I would have enjoyed many of them.
Of course, it’s a costly event for a fan to attend. In 2010, RWA will cost about $450. I would be paying for many aspects of the conference — access to editors and publishers, sessions on marketing and publishing, networking — that I wouldn’t use.
Another conference is Romantic Times, to be held in Columbus Ohio April 28-May 2. More than RWA, RT bills itself as an event for both readers and writers. RT is also expensive –$490 for the conference, which includes two dinners. A lot of authors I admire will be there, and some of the workshops look good. But what turns me off about RT is pics like these. I just don’t do costume parties, mantitty, or anything most humans consider “fun”. Whatever the RT idea of a romance fan is, is not me.
A third conference which, unlike the first two, is billed as just for readers, is the Celebrate Romance conference. It’s been happening for the last several years at the end of February/early March. It is run by volunteers, and at $150, is more affordable that RWA or RT. Rumor has it, however, (and the website suggests) that there is NO CR conference planned for 2010 (see Karen’s comment below).
Today, I learned of a new conference (and website), RomConInc.com. It purports to be reader focused (80% readers, 20% authors), and will take place July 7-9 in Denver. Since it is brand new, RomCon has no track record, but Borders is a sponsor, and there will be a reader awards event, which sounds super fun. The fee is a hefty $350, although it does include a brunch, a breakfast, and two dinners, as well as admission to the gala event. There are two cash bar/free appetizer events. Although it promises to host industry professionals, unlike RT and RWA, the RomCon event is geared towards readers.
It also has a website which looks less than promising, as a web aggregator of syndicated news and blog feeds, and cutesy contests and quizzes which feature questions such as “what do you prefer on your hero’s feet?” I have no idea who is running it. An “about” page which gives this info is perhaps forthcoming.
Attending any of these will be expensive. There’s the hotel, food, and the cost of getting there from my remote rural corner of the US, where “you can’t get there from here” is not a metaphor, but a statement of fact. As a nonwriter, and as not even a particularly ambitious blogger, I wonder where my money will be best spent? I could buy a lot of romance novels for $350…! On the other hand, I am 4 hours from the nearest city, and there are no “local” events for me whatsoever. If I have any hope of meeting any of my blogging pals or fave authors, I must get on a plane.
So please advise. Have you attended RWA or RT as a reader? Would you go back? Why or why not? Is it better to spend your money on a tried and true (if not desigend for readers) event, or is it better to take a chance on a promising new one?
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#1 by Lynne Connolly on October 1, 2009 - 6:34 pm
I fly over from the UK for Romantic Times every year, and I’m not the only Brit who does it. It does have something for everyone.
There are the parties, which might or might not be to your taste, but there are also lots of classes and panels. I get to meet friends, and connect with readers and since my publishers are in the US, I meet with them, too.
The first year I had one book out with a (very) small publisher, but I mainly went as a reader, to meet the authors I’d been reading for years.
There are two big booksignings, an ebook signing on the Wednesday, and the print book signing on the Saturday. There are usually around 350 or so authors there. The headlines and pictures are usually from the parties, but if you download the brochure you can see the other things on offer.
There are also informal meetings, too. And I’ve always found the people there to be so friendly to someone like me, flying solo.
I’ve never attended the others. And there is another new conference this year, Romanticon, sponsored by Ellora’s Cave.
#2 by Jessica on October 1, 2009 - 8:11 pm
Lynne,
Thank you very much for sharing your experience. It is really good to hear there are a range of activities for different temperaments at RT. I would hate to choose a conference where I felt like a stick in the mud the entire time!
I did not know about Romanticon. I will look into that as well. Thanks again.
#3 by katiebabs on October 1, 2009 - 8:50 pm
I’ve gone to Nationals twice and if you are looking to get published, network or be involved in the romance genre world it is well worth it. You get 2 lunches and enough books that you can’t take home.
Nationals is not for just hanging out. Why pay the $500 plus room, board, travel etc… if you aren’t going to attend the workshops and other events?
I heard RT is more reader friendly and many have a blast there. I think it all comes down to what you want to get out of these conferences.
I just know from going to nationals that I had so, so much fun but I go there for professional, networking and other reasons.
#4 by jmc on October 1, 2009 - 8:53 pm
To expand on what I tweeted earlier, I enjoyed RWA this year. Had never been before, and went this year because it was held relatively close to me. It was great to meet a lot of the reader bloggers I’d “met” online, and I enjoyed some of the workshops, etc. But it is definitely a writer-oriented conference, and it was a little weird to be a reader there. I lost count of the number of people who asked why I was attending if I didn’t want to be published. As much as I enjoyed the experience overall, I don’t feel inclined to go again, especially given the cost of registration on top of hotel and airfare to Nashville.
I am interested in attending a reader-oriented conference, but the man-titty and costumes that I’ve seen in RT conference reports put me off. Lynne’s comment is reassuring.
I’ve read the RomCon site and am interested, but will probably wait to make a final decision about attending after I had a better idea of who will be attending and what sort of panels it will include.
Location makes a difference, too. I’d make a vacation out of visiting Denver. Columbus, probably not.
#5 by Edie on October 1, 2009 - 9:12 pm
Have to say thanks for bringing this up Jessica, I am actually thinking of heading to the US next year for a conference, was leaning towards RT, so am going to watch this thread with interest.
#6 by Nicola O. on October 1, 2009 - 9:37 pm
Interesting question. About a year ago, I was very caught up in the blogging thing and really wanted to go to RWA this year. Sadly, it’s not in the budget. I do sneak into some of the Emerald City RWA chapter events which have some fabulous speakers. Weekend after this I’m going to their conference– well, not really, I’m just going for the book fair. That’s all I really care about!
#7 by Wendy on October 1, 2009 - 10:16 pm
I’ve never been to RT, mostly because it hasn’t been anywhere near the west coast in recent memory – but Lynne is a seasoned veteran at this point, and I’m glad to see she’s left a comment
I’ve been to Nationals several times (5?). I think “just a reader” can get a lot out of the experience, but it all boils down to if it’s going to be worth it for you personally. It’s very much a conference geared towards writers. There aren’t any reader events to speak off – although I do think there are workshops that readers will (and do!) find interesting. I go because I get a lot out of it for my job – they have a Librarian Event, and it’s a chance for me to pass my business card out to authors and editors.
One of my fellow So. Cal. Bloggers has written a couple of posts about the RWA conference from a reader’s perspective. I think they’re both immensely informative and always point them out to readers who ponder whether or not they should attend. You can find them here:
http://accessromance.com/gab/2008/08/07/what-every-reader-should-know-before-going-to-rwa/
http://accessromance.com/gab/2009/07/02/the-3-es-for-rwa/
#8 by Phyl on October 1, 2009 - 10:31 pm
I live in Columbus, and jmc’s right. This isn’t exactly a vacation spot. However, for a large city the area around the convention center is fairly clean and safe. There are some awesome locally-owned restaurants & art galleries within a few blocks of the convention center. If you come just for RT it would probably be a comfortable & enjoyable stay with some interesting places to poke around if you want to get away for a couple hours.
I imagine there are enough of us not interested in the mantitty to create our own off-site event should we want to do that. In all honesty, even though the event is in my home town, I doubt I’ll register to go. The book signings are open to the public, right? That’s what I want to go to, plus meet up with bloggers should any of you come here.
#9 by Maili on October 2, 2009 - 1:50 am
In any case anyone’s interested, there is the Romance Slam Jam Conference. According to their site, their 2010 five-day conference will take place on a cruise starting in Florida during April.
I did think of attending a RT convention about five years ago, but decided not to go after seeing their schedule. Most workshops seemed to be for
unpublishedpre-published writers and most events for “fans” to meet authors and cover models.I’m too dull to be a type that can enjoy taking part in costume parties, book signings and giveaways, and attending author events that aren’t for me. Comparing with other fans, I’m a very boring “fan”.
I think I wanted more than that. Similar to Edinburgh International Book Festival, which hosted cultural and political debates, panel discussions, and fun events. I have an impression – from reading rom con attendees’ reports – that the rom cons focus on fun events or writer-oriented events only. I read somewhere there were panel discussions for readers, but usually by writers or editors about the romance industry. I may be wrong, though (I welcome corrections).
That’s probably why I never felt motivated to attend a RT, CelebrateRomance, Rom Slam Jam or RWA convention, but I would go if there is another conference similar to what I have in mind.
#10 by Jessica on October 2, 2009 - 6:30 am
Wendy, thanks for your POV and those links. A great resource!
#11 by Jessica on October 2, 2009 - 6:31 am
Nicola — Yeah, I might be less motivated it (a) I had ever gone to a conference in the past, and (b) I had events near me.
Kate — thanks for sharing your experience!
#12 by Jessica on October 2, 2009 - 6:34 am
Maili — That sounds neat, but I can’t travel in the spring (except our March Spring break), but thanks for letting us know about this.
Clearly, we are twins separated at birth.
And thanks for getting “pre-published” in there.
#13 by Jill D. on October 2, 2009 - 8:08 am
Funny you should bring up this question because I am struggling with the very same thing. I went to RT last year and I had an absolute blast. But when everybody was away at RWA, I felt left out. Unfortunately, I can’t attend both. (My husband would be up in arms.)
What I really liked about RT was that as a fan or reader, you get the opportunity to meet authors, shake their hands and even have conversations with them. This is the main focus of the conference. Established authors are there, not to learn about writing or marketing their books. They are there to meet their fans. The atmosphere is so upbeat and festive. A lot of positive energy is circling around and it is addictive! It is a completely different mindset from your everyday life.
As far as cost, yes $490 is a steep price to pay, but I think it is worth it. RT is a 4 day affair. They fed me breakfast everyday. Most of the reader workshops had some type of small food or drink item to be had. One of the days there was a full lunch. Yes, there are two official dinners, but the other two nights had appetizers and drinks. The only night I bought dinner was the last night. That was because they have a dinner with the cover models that costs extra and I wasn’t interested in attending that. Other than that one meal, I didn’t buy any food those 4 days. RT provided me with the rest. I’ll admit that I am happy snacking all day, as opposed to three set meals.
As far as the costumes go, well I admit, I like to dress up. Not everyone dresses up though and it is only in the evenings at the dinner and dance when it takes place. It is totally optional. There are all kinds of people there. I sat next to an elderly lady one night who was there because she is writing a cosy mystery. She hadn’t dressed up and we had a very nice conversation over our dinner. I made great friends with published authors, booksellers and other avid romance readers like myself.
Also, I brought home 60 books from RT and half of them were signed by the author. When I added up the cost of those books they were worth about $500, the cost of the conference.
Sorry this is so long!
I also wanted to talk about RWA. I haven’t ever been, but the draw for me is meeting all the other bloggers. It seems like so many more bloggers attend RWA and I would love to meet everyone face to face. Also, getting to meet my favorite authors is another big draw. But I don’t know if it would be worth it when it is writer based, rather than fan based. See, at RT fans are welcomed and dare I say worshiped at RT, where as at RWA, would I feel more like an outsider or a wanna-be? That is not the atmosphere I would want to subject myself too, if I am there as a reader only. I need to check out the links Wendy posted.
#14 by Jessica on October 2, 2009 - 9:20 am
Jill, THANK YOU so much for your comment. It is so helpful to get these different viewpoints. I am now seeing a different side of RT than the mantitty/feathered boa/straw hat side. Your points are excellent. And, RomCon has a masquerade ball and treasure hunts, so it clearly is going for the “funloving” angle as well.
Here is a list of Saturday events:
About RomConversations saturday Events
Saturday Events
* Breakfast starts at 7 AM
* Silent auction 8 AM – 4 PM
* Treasure hunts and reader competitions continue
* Workshops/panel discussions run 9 AM – 4 PM
* Author- and publisher-hosted events as scheduled
* Mini-show events as scheduled throughout the day
* Book signing 11 AM to 2 PM (open to the public)
* Cocktail hour 4:30 -5:30 PM
* Dinner 6 PM
* Borders’ Bestseller awards 7:30 PM
* Black and White Masquerade 9 PM to Midnight
Romcon is a shorter event — Friday to Sunday, which actually works better for me (I can only take so much socializing. Already that is my 6 month allotment)
The more I think about it, the more it looks like the choice may be between RT and RomCon. Would you say Romcon is a direct competitor to RT? It is starting to look like it to me, rather than filling a niche.
#15 by Victoria Janssen on October 2, 2009 - 10:16 am
A lot depends on what you want to get out of the conference experience.
I have only been to RWA so far, and only twice. I don’t think my experience of it was typical. I don’t attend the workshops, the first year because the one I visited was much more introductory than I’d hoped, and the second year because the ones in which I was interested all conflicted with events I was obliged to attend such as meeting with my editor, events sponsored by my publisher, etc.. That’s okay with me, because I go to talk to people more than to be talked to.
I think the networking would have worked out no matter which conference I chose. I found it really easy to hang out with people whom I’d only met online before, as well as the few people whom I know from outside of RWA (Jennifer Stevenson, Lucienne Diver, Alaya Dawn Johnson). Already being part of the romance community, even if only online, means you KNOW people already and will have someone to talk to regardless. I think that’s the key to enjoying any of these conferences, no matter what events they offer. So long as you’re with congenial people, anything can be made fun.
RWA does have the advantage of LOTS of free books, but I would weigh that against whether you want to spend time attending all the signings where the books are available, and if you actually want the books you’ll get (since you love your Kindle).
And…I think the Harlequin Party at RWA is something everyone must see once in their lifetime. You do not have to be an author to attend, and if you were nervous about just showing up, I’d take you.
I’m attending RWA for professional reasons, and am considering RT because an old friend from my workshop is also going for the first time. But even if I go to RT, I’m not going primarily for the planned events, I’m going to talk to people. However, for me the expense is tax deductible, which does make a difference.
#16 by Jill D. on October 2, 2009 - 10:30 am
I wouldn’t mind going to RonCon, but I would want to know which authors would be attending the event. That would make a big difference to me. If not many authors would be participating, then I may not want to go. Isn’t RWA held in July too? Would many authors be able to attend RWA and Romcon? Something to consider, I suppose.
Yes, I do think RomCon sounds much more like RT, just a different sponsor and on a smaller scale.
#17 by Kimber Chin on October 2, 2009 - 10:40 am
I haven’t attended any of the larger conferences.
I am always so time pressed (a busy, busy girl).
The hubby and I did agree that we’ll attend any conference (big or small) where one of my books are up for an award.
Haven’t been lucky enough to have that happen yet though!
#18 by AnimeJune on October 2, 2009 - 10:44 am
I can’t really offer anything from a reader’s perspective, because I attended RWA 2009 as a budding writer whose 1st draft was finished. I knew I had a BLAST. Yes, the price is hefty, but since I made it all back in books alone (more than that – in Canada, at $10 a book, I brought back $690 of books) it seemed really worth it to me.
Again, though, I loved the workshops and the presentations REALLY helped. But, yeah, I’m not sure what there would be for a reader. RT does sound a lot more low-key. I was talking with Shiloh Walker at RWA and she said that RT is a lot more casual, parties and get togethers whereas RWA is more business. As much as I adored RWA, a lot of what I liked about it was the help it gave me as a writer.
As a writer, I would recommend RWA 100%. As a reader, I’m not sure – it sounds like RT might be a better use of your money.
#19 by Jessica on October 2, 2009 - 10:57 am
thank you.
I have also just heard form @Keristevens about th eLori Foster reader/author get together. http://www.lorifoster.com/community/readergettogether.php#2010
June 4th – 6th, 2010
Cincinnati Marriott North at Union Centre, West Chester Ohio
#20 by katiebabs on October 2, 2009 - 11:01 am
Don’t forget about Lora Leigh’s annual September conference. Just passed:
http://www.readersappreciationweekend.com/
I know a few people who went and they had a blast.
#21 by Leslie Dicken on October 2, 2009 - 11:02 am
I’ve been to RWA almost every year for the last 10. As a writer, it’s helped me tremendously. As a reader, I’m not quite sure what it has to offer!
For the first time, I want to try RT. I’m not into the models and not really sure if I’d dress up, but I think I’d get a lot of out interacting with more readers and the signings.
As for RomCom, I can’t see going as just a reader and the selection process for authors looks far too tedious.
I like the more local conferences like NJRW and WRW, but there is only so much money I can spread around.
Thanks for the great post, I love reading all the answers/comments you’ve gotten!
#22 by Lisa Hendrix on October 2, 2009 - 11:08 am
RT is more fan oriented and RWA more writer oriented. RT is more about party and friends, RWA more about professional education and contacts.
One thing I believe you have wrong: the cost for RWA registration always includes admission to the awards ceremony (which is not a dinner, btw). The extra charge you’ll see on the registration form is for a non-registered guest to attend the ceremony (for instance, the husbands of GH and Rita nominees).
#23 by Zoe Archer on October 2, 2009 - 11:42 am
I have been to RWA twice in an “official” capacity and once where I didn’t actually attend the conference itself, but went to my publisher’s cocktail party and had meetings. That was last year, when it was held in San Francisco, so I had plenty to keep me occupied when the actual conference was being held. I never attended as a “pre-published author” (love that term). Almost all the workshops and panels I attend are either through PAN or those focused on the business side of publishing. If one is an aspirant in writing romance, than RWA is the conference to attend.
This will be my first time going to RT. I’ll be on a panel with other authors and industry professionals talking about writing unusual romances. Like you, Jessica, I have some trepidation about costume parties and cover model pageants, but I do love a good time, and I’m sure there will be plenty of like-minded individuals there so that we can at least all sit together and play Dorothy Parker.
Cost is always a consideration, but I’ve heard of people having roommates at sundry conferences, to help with the expense. My roomie at RT will be the lovey and talented Carrie Lofty. No doubt we will concoct some diabolical plot.
#24 by Carolyn Crane on October 2, 2009 - 12:50 pm
I’ve never been to any of the conferences, and have always felt so very left out. This year for sure I’m going to both RT and RWA, not that I know how I’ll do it financially, and I’ve lined up roomies for both, which appears to be a common practice. I don’t like the whole mantitty thing, either. This new con, gosh! So many. But I am so excited to meet people! Being a fellow remote-area person.
#25 by Tiffany James on October 2, 2009 - 1:28 pm
Jessica,
My names is Tiffany James, and I’m one of the RomCon organizers. Just wanted to stop by and thank you for all your great comments and those of your readers! Also wanted to let you know that RomCon will have something for everyone. The costume ball and masquerade happen after dinner and the awards ceremony so it would be easy for you to duck out of those if they’re not your cup of tea. If you enjoy a more intimate setting for meeting and chatting with your favorite authors, we’ll have small group author-hosted events as well as workshops that address topics that concern readers (watch the website for regular updates).
Don’t hesitate to contact us with more questions and concerns. We love hearing what readers really want!
Tiffany
tiffany@romconinc.com
#26 by Jill D. on October 2, 2009 - 1:35 pm
Tiffany, Do you plan on having a list of participating authors?
#27 by Tiffany James on October 2, 2009 - 1:42 pm
Jill,
Absolutely! We have several invitations pending and will announce them as soon as they are confirmed. So keep checking the website!
Tiffany
#28 by Jessica on October 2, 2009 - 2:28 pm
Lisa, thank you for correcting me. I will fix that in the post.
Thank you Tiffany, for stopping by. I think I speak for many readers when I say the make or break issue is “authors authors authors”. Can’t wait to find out who will be there!
#29 by Tiffany James on October 2, 2009 - 3:13 pm
Jessica,
We are in absolute agreement! That’s why we are soooo excited about those pending invites,
Tiffany
#30 by Janine on October 2, 2009 - 4:20 pm
I emailed my friend Karen W. who has been involved in organizing the Celebrate Romance convention in past years to ask if there was one happening in 2010.
Personally I’m hoping to attend RWA again, although I haven’t finalized my plans. I had a great time there, and the best part of it was meeting so many virtual friends, some writers, some bloggers.
I envy everyone who already has a roommate lined up for next year!
#31 by Karen on October 2, 2009 - 4:57 pm
I was one of the organizers of Celebrate Romance, and unfortunately there isn’t one planned for 2010. I’m hoping it will be revived at some point in the future, because I think it was a great conference for readers!
#32 by Jessica on October 2, 2009 - 5:03 pm
Karen, thank you for letting us know. And Janine, thank you for your email!
#33 by ArkansasCyndi on October 2, 2009 - 6:02 pm
I think which conference to attend depends on what you want to get out of it. I’ve been to RT once. I’m not into costumes, and flirting with male models. Just my observation from the one I attended but RT seemed to be driven more by erotic romance than other genres. Yes, authors of other genres were there but the one I went to, EC was a major sponsor and the theme was overwhelmingly sex. RT is geared toward readers, although it does have some workshops for authors.
RWA and it’s workshops are geared toward writers. For writers, there are probably more editors and agents per square foot than any other conference. Not as wild as RT. More my style. I don’t party much.
Like everyone, I’ll be interested in seeing the author line-up for RomCon. It is quite close to RWA this year. and as you pointed out, no track record. If I understand the RomCom site, this is geared toward readers.
So I guess it depends on who you want to connect with. For readers, maybe RT or RomCon. If you want to connect more with authors, editor, agents, RWA.
Good luck. Comment thus far have been interesting.
#34 by KristieJ on October 2, 2009 - 8:46 pm
I’ve been to both a RT convention and now 3 RWA conventions. It’s hard in a way to compare them. It was a few years ago now that I went to the RT convention and I didn’t know anyone – went by myself and didn’t know a soul whereas I’ve ‘known’ people at the RWA convention – not in person but through blogland and it was totally different experience.
The RT convention while fun, was too focused on the whole cover model contest thing. They had a couple of dress up balls and I’m not a dress up person.
The RWA convention on the other hand is much more professional. Don’t get me wrong, it was still a lot of fun, but not as much a Par-tey atmosphere.
Now that I know people who have been there a few times, the people I ‘knew’ have become true friends. Wendy, Rosie, Lisabea and Amy and Katie, Jane, Candy and Sarah and Angie – I’ve met all them a few times now and it’s a great feeling seeing them again. This year I met Barbara and AnimeJune for the first time but it was like I’ve known them for ages – instant connection. So I’m planning on going back again – it’s becoming my vacation
The RWA convention also has free meals. They have 2 luncheons and the meals were great. Plus they had excellent speakers this time – Janet Evanovitch, Linda Howard and Eloisa James.
I see the new one is $100 cheaper, but you have to take into consideration the books that are free at the RWA. I am sure I got more than $100 worth of books (at least) at the publisher signings.
And I found many of the authors very accessible too. For example Julie James and I had a wonderful chat about So You Think You Can Dance. It’s an incredible experience meeting fellow romance lovers you’ve met on line – that instant connection is amazing. I really hope you do plan on going and the selfish part of me hopes you pick the RWA ‘cause I know I’m planning on making it 4 years in a row.
#35 by azteclady on October 2, 2009 - 9:51 pm
(KristieJ doesn’t love me)
*ahem*
Well, you know I had an absolute blast at RWA, and I’m still hoarding those pennies to make it possible again in 2010. I’ll be frank and say that I haven’t thought about RT–and I cannot make a proper comparison between the two, as my experience at RT was a matter of hours on the last day, while I really squeeeeeeeezed all I could of every second of RWA
#36 by KristieJ on October 2, 2009 - 10:16 pm
Ackkkk!!! Smack me on the head and call me stupid. I knew posting this on a Friday wasn’t a good idea as my brain is on overload. I have a weeks worth of stuff to unload while sleeping tonight.
One of the best things about the Washington DS conference was getting to meet and hang with Aztec Lady! She’s such fun and so enthusiastic about everything and I’m already looking forward to meeting up with her again next year!!
#37 by Zoe Archer on October 3, 2009 - 1:29 am
Does anyone know if there will be a blogger mixer at either RT or RWA? As an author, I would love to connect with bloggers. Not to curry favor, but just to meet them and hang out, talk about romances, blogging, dogs, daughters. No big whoop. Wait…I was channeling Linda Richman there for a minute. Anyway, if something like that could happen, I for one would find it awesome.
#38 by Jessica on October 3, 2009 - 6:42 am
Kristie — I was so hoping you would chime in. I knew you had attended and wanted your input. I am really thinking at this point that RWA is the right choice, although if the RomCon gets great authors and I find lots of bloggers going to that one, I may change my mind.
Azteclady — even though Kristie obviously does not care one whit for you, rest assured that *I* find the fact that you are going to RWA a HUGE point in favor of going to Nashville (grins).
Zoe — YES. Mark my words, if I am hauling my ass to Nashville, there WILL be some kind of blogger mixer. I am sure we can convince somebody to help us out with costs and do it!!!
#39 by Lynne Connolly on October 3, 2009 - 7:12 am
@Zoe Archer:
This year, Romantic Times is focussing on media and electronic media. It is much more friendly toward e-publishing and using the Internet to further your career, which is one of my primary reasons for choosing it above Nationals.
Also, I’m not a member of the RWA, I belong to the RNA, and we don’t have any reciprocal arrangements in place, so I’d be restricted in what I could go to.
If you go here:
http://tinyurl.com/ybnsnwa it has the timetable. Click on the “Workshop” tab and you get to the “serious” part of RT, the classes, publisher spotlights and pitch sessions.
The parties and the cover model stuff gets most media coverage because that’s where the newsworthy stuff is, but underneath all that is a serious convention with a real commitment to romance publishing. There are fun classes and panels, as well as serious ones about the business of publishing, and they are free to every attendant. No checks at the door to see if you are published or not. (I’m actually very interested in the Reiki class).
There will probably be more classes offered – it’s early days yet. If you want something with the bloggers, one of the best things you could do is to go to one of the big blogs and suggest it. I think some of them would be really interested.
Just noticed – this would be the panel you want:
“SOCIAL MEDIA: HOW TO BE A BLOG QUEEN
THURSDAY: The Internet is a treasure chest of promo opportunities- and a potential minefield. Learn how to negotiate cyberspace for a maximum exposure for minimal dollars, while avoiding shooting yourself in the cyber-foot! With Scalzi and Konrath onboard, this panel is destined to be lively and entertaining!
Panelists: Emily Bryan, J.A. Konrath, John Scalzi, Jaye Wells “
#40 by Zoe Archer on October 3, 2009 - 11:13 am
I am there, there, there!
#41 by Lissa Matthews on October 3, 2009 - 1:16 pm
I have not attended RWA nor RT and looking at the ‘application’ process of RomCon in Denver, I won’t be attending that one. One of and the main reason I don’t attend the larger of the conferences is money. I can’t afford to spend $1000 minimum on myself for something like this. I have said before that my writing will have to pay for me to go, and so far, it can’t. One day, yes. Maybe. grins…
I did attend the Lori Foster event this year and will go again next year. I will be hopefully attending Moonlight and Magnolia’s next year and I want to attend Ellora’s Cave’s RomantiCon next year. I haven’t been to a big convention, but I like the feel of the smaller one.
I realize I have a different view than most, but…the writing is my thing. It is my career, it is my choice. And until it picks up and I can produce enough that it can pay the huge cost of RT and RWA, I’ll be attending the smaller more affordable cons.
#42 by Tiffany James on October 3, 2009 - 4:10 pm
@ArkansasCyndi: Cyndi,
You are right – RomCon is all about readers!
Tiffany
#43 by Tiffany James on October 3, 2009 - 4:14 pm
@Lissa Matthews: Lissa,
Our application process is simply to insure that the authors at RomCon are the authors readers want to see. Readers rave, and we respond!
If you’d like to chat more about the application process, please contact me at tiffany@romconinc.com.
Thanks again to all of you for your great comments!
Tiffany
#44 by Tiffany James on October 3, 2009 - 4:17 pm
Ladies,
Just curious: which authors would you like to see at RomCon?
Thanks!
Tiffany
#45 by katiebabs on October 3, 2009 - 6:40 pm
Jessica: Kati of Adventures in Katidom and I planned a dinner on the Friday night of this past nationals. We treated it as a blogger get together but then opened it up to authors and others. 22 people total showed up and we had a total blast. Afterward, we hung out in the hotel bar and even more people showed up. I know if Kati and I decide to go to nationals in Nashville, we plan to do the same thing.
I think a blogger get together would be excellent! Others bloggers have expressed more of these type of events at RT or at RWA.
#46 by Jessica on October 4, 2009 - 7:10 am
Katie,
Yes, it was pics of that wonderful event that had me wishing I were there! I hope there are many more dinners in 2010.
However, what do you think about a kind of reception, maybe 2 hours, in a room that fits, I don’t know, 80-100* people, so any blogger could come and stop in and leave as she wishes, without feeling the kind of time commitment a dinner requires? And instead of sitting at a table, where you kind of end up talking to the people next to you, it would be more of a mixer, where we could mingle and meet lots of people. We could have people make their own nametags as they enter, with their first name and blog name.
I have no idea how expensive it is to arrange a cash bar, but we could look into that. We could look into getting sponsors, either the bigger blogs, as someone mentioned, and/or corporate sponsors. It would not be a very expensive event at all.
Do you think bloggers would be willing to pay, like $10-20 for this? Or should it be free?
[*do 80-100 bloggers even attend these events? no idea.]
And let me add, I am obviously no expert, having never been to RWA. These are just ideas, throwing them out there to see what sticks. Please — anyone — tell me if you think this will never work.
#47 by Jessica on October 4, 2009 - 7:13 am
Lissa, I hear you. For me, it will be every bit as expensive to attend a smaller conference as a larger one. So I woudl prefer to go where I will get the most bang for my buck!
#48 by Jessica on October 4, 2009 - 7:16 am
Tiffany,
I can’t speak for others in Romanceland, but looking at my list of authors I would like to meet, they range over “bestselling” to “midlist”, to “just starting out”. and they write across the genre, both single titles and categories, epresses and print, m/f and m/m. So I would hope to see that diversity showcased at a conference for readers.
#49 by KristieJ on October 4, 2009 - 9:16 am
Type your comment here@Jessica: I think that’s a great idea. I’d love to see bloggers host something and open it up to authors who want to come and meet with us – and it would be a great chance to meet up with other bloggers. Many of us were scattered and didn’t get a chance to say more than a quick hello.
I didn’t make the dinner that Katie and Kati organized but I was back at the hotel for the mixer (for lack of a better word) after and it was ever so much fun!! There were some authors who held parties in their rooms but as you can imagine, space was limited. A larger venue would be an excellent idea.
What I’ve been doing is going a couple of days early and doing some sight seeing of the city before the conference actually starts on the Wednesday.
And true – while most of the workshops are geared towards writers, there are some interesting ones that readers can take in too.
See *g* I’m trying to really make a case ’cause I would LOVE to meet you in person
#50 by Tiffany James on October 4, 2009 - 9:23 am
Jessica,
Great! Good to know. Any chance you’d be willing to email me with some names, just so I know we’re on the same page?
I loved your idea for a blogger mixer! We’re adding that to the schedule of happenings at RomCon. I’ve passed your suggestions from above (#47) on to my team. We’ll do our best to accomodate those suggestions.
Thanks again – you guys have been great!
Tiffany
tiffany@romconinc.com
#51 by katiebabs on October 4, 2009 - 11:31 am
Jessica, I think that would be a fabulous idea to find a room and have a blogger get together. The amount of bloggers, reviewers and others at nationals this July was outstanding.
And as Kristie said, afterwards, hanging out in the bar area and just talking with so many people was so, so much fun.
#52 by Jane on October 9, 2009 - 12:46 pm
I encourage any reader who is interested in the romcon to email the organizers and tell them what you think of the application process. I believe the more readers that they hear from, the more impact. After all, if this is “for the reader” then the reader concerns should be paramount.
#53 by Lusty Reader on October 9, 2009 - 2:42 pm
Somehow I don’t have your email address otherwise I woulda sent this to you because i am WAYYY late on this comment thread. My google reader got away from me this week.
Anywhosits, I am 100% a reader only and not very “fan”-like.” I don’t really have a burning desire in partying and becoming good friends with my favorite authors. I feel awkward about it.
I only went to RWA this year because it was 1 metro stop away from my house in DC. I had an ABSOLUTE BLAST! I didn’t register, so the only things I attended were the Literacy Signing and any blogger get togethers.
I was able to shake hands with and chat breifly with a few authors which was perfect for me, buy at TON of new releases with autographs (proceeds went to charity which felt nice as opposed to feeding corporate conglomerate bookstores) and some other kind, sweet, lovely bloggers (*cough*KB, Kati, Shaymless Aymless*cough*) gave me some of their free books they got from the publishers events since they had registered for the conference.
The best part of ALL was meeting all the bloggers. I did not feel like I missing out by not going to any of the presentations, even when I heard how funny Linda Howard was, etc.
Here are my posts on it:
http://lustyreader.wordpress.com/2009/07/16/a-lusty-view-of-rwa09-day-1/
http://lustyreader.wordpress.com/2009/07/18/romantic-friday-evening-at-rwa09/
After going once and not registering I might be tempted to go to Nashville as a vacay and not register again but just go to the literacy signing and blogger meet ups. Your idea of a mixer sounds parfait to me!
#54 by Kim Adams on October 9, 2009 - 2:50 pm
Sorry for joining the conversation late, but I just moved to Hawaii. Here’s how I evaluate RT vs. RWA:
- they all round up to @$500, serving some food and giving away more books than any reader needs.
- RT offers pre-convnetion writing courses. Both RT and RWA offer a wide range of panels and workshops that appeal to all authors (and would appeal to readers who appreciate the craft).
- RT relies upon sponsors and the current sponsors are Paraanormal, Erotica, Manga, etc. That being said, RT still has has historical, series, and contempoary authors. While I prefer historicals, I find the erotica authors are just as nice, interesting, and helpful to aspring authors and romance fans. I’ve attended the past 4 RTs and met authors that I would not normally read. We’ve since become friends as they support Kathryn Falk’s military charity, SOS America Inc (which I serve as the military liaison).
- I am a member of RWA, the DC chapter, the Beau Monde chapter, and now the Aloha Chapter. I attended the national convetion this year because it was close to home. Indeed, RWA was more “traditional” and “business oriented”, but I also enjoyd my “rock star moments” wtih best selling authors who were open to aspiring authors and other attenees. Although RWA is open to anyone, I caution those readers who are used to the “reader parties” at RT. RWA is not oriented to readers. But readers who appreciate the craft would enjoy RWA.
I believe it boils down to :
- location
- which authors are attending each convention.
No matter which convention you attend, it is what you make of it.
Happy reading!
Kim
sos.america@yahoo.com
#55 by Marilyn Shoemaker on October 16, 2009 - 1:42 pm
As a blogger, I’m going to attend Rom.con. If I were to go to RWA I think the only benefit would be the book fair and maybe some of the Pub parties as RWA, even though I’m a member, is geared for authors.
Rom Con promises to be an interesting experience with a few authors like Susan Mallery, Brenda Novak and Anna Campbell attending and I’m sure more to come.
I’ve also thought about going to Lori Foster’s reader get together. Anyone ever attend this event?
#56 by Marilyn Shoemaker on October 16, 2009 - 3:07 pm
Jost to confuse the issue, check out my recent posts on Romance Author Buzz……Brenda Novak and Christine Feehan plus Lori Foster are also having reader events in 2010.
#57 by Jessica on October 16, 2009 - 5:19 pm
Thank you Marilyn. I am aware of single author hosted events, and I know folks absolutely love them, but I want the most bang for my buck. Plus, I am not a big Foster fan, having read two of her books and found them just ok. It would be odd to make the sojourn for an author I don’t adore. Same for Feehan, except that her Dark Prince has the honor of being in a 3 way tie for most dreadful romance I have ever read.
We are lucky to have so many different events to choose from in Romland. There’s something for everyone.