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The 14th through the 17th of April is Norwescon, a science fiction and fantasy writers convention in Seattle, Washington.
It’s not that I’m worried about meeting people or anything like that—I’ve been to plenty of comic conventions, and I’m perfectly comfortable networking.
No, it’s just that . . . well, a convention for writers seems different. It’s all about the writing community coming together to celebrate writing, share knowledge, and build relationships.
And as a relative newbie (I’ve only been out of teaching and into writing seriously for about a year), I worry about walking that line between, “I’m an English teacher; I know what I’m doing!” and, “I haven’t gotten published yet, so I should shut up and listen to the pros!”
Just to be safe, I’m probably going to fall on the “shut up and listen” side of the question.
Like I said, I’ve been to a bunch of comic conventions.
I go to Rose City Comic Con and Kumoricon in Portland every year (for all my nerds out there who know what those are), so I know how to prep.
As any congoer knows, there is so much to do at a convention that it can be overwhelming! I know I have to plan, so I don’t miss anything important.
Norwescon is using the Guidebook app this year, so that will make it easier, but there is still a lot happening over the weekend.
I have a list of panels I want to see and publisher’s tables I need to visit. There are improv shows, drag performances, and concerts. Time for just wandering around and seeing what interesting things I can find is imperative.
I wish I could clone myself! One version of me for that panel, one for shopping, one for watching the costume contest . . .
Conventions are a great way to connect with and learn from amazing people, so they’re worth every penny spent, but the prices of these events can be astronomical.
Between entrance fees and four nights of the hotel, my budget is going to be pretty tight, so I’m going to plan ahead and bring my own snacks and drinks. Not only will I save money, but I’ll also avoid the hour-long lines at the concession stand.
This doesn’t mean I’m going to lug a cooler around all day!
I am staying on site at the hotel, so I’ll be able to pop back into my room when I need to, and I’ll keep a bottle of water and some trail mix in my bag.
Speaking of carrying snacks in my bag . . .
There will be handouts from the panels, a journal for my own notes, swag from the booths, and I know I’m going to be buying books!
I am going to need a pretty big bag to fit everything. Personally, I’m not into backpacks, but if I were, that would be a good choice to keep my hands free.
Conventions are always busy, so I know I’ll be sitting, standing, and walking for long periods of time.
I’m here for the panels this time, so I’m not cosplaying (although I’m sure other people are going to). Instead, I’m dressing for comfort in jeans, tee-shirts, and cardigans.
Norwescon is a science fiction and fantasy convention, though, so all my tee shirts and jewelry will fit the theme.
I’ve found at other cons that one of the best icebreakers is to wear a cool piece of clothing that represents my fandom.
Since this is my first time at Norwescon, I need all the help with meeting people I can get!
This will be my first time attending Norwescon, and I’m looking forward to meeting other writers, learning about the publishing industry, and (fingers crossed!) having free time for fun.
I know it’ll be a great opportunity.
And if you have any tips for making the most of a writer’s convention, please share them in the comments below.
I help authors, researchers, business people, students, and web marketers to polish their writing before they send it out into the world.
Fourth and last (for now!) in our series of book reviews featuring Kindle Unlimited books that explain ways to outline a novel. Let’s get ready for NaNoWriMo!
Third in our series of book reviews featuring Kindle Unlimited books that explain ways to outline a novel. Let’s get ready for NaNoWriMo!
Second in our series of book reviews featuring Kindle Unlimited books that explain ways to outline a novel. Let’s get ready for NaNoWriMo!
