I just arrived home from the Book Launch Party for Dead and Kicking and I think I’m still riding on cloud nine.  I’ll probably crash soon, but I thought I would quickly impart the two things I learned in case anyone is planning one of their own.

1. Have someone help with the book sales.  I have to admit to feeling a bit giddy when the night began and found the whole thing a little overwhelming having to deal with taking money and making change and writing in the books.  If I were to do it again, I would get a friend to handle the sales transaction so that I could just focus on visiting with the person buying my book and writing something somewhat witty, or at least spelling their name right (Sorry, George or “Geogre” as I called him.  I still can’t believe I did that!)
2. Get a friend to take pictures.  I was so busy selling books and signing books and making sure there was enough food for everyone and visiting everyone that I didn’t take a single picture.   I know a few friends snapped a picture or two so hopefully I’ll get copies.

For the night of the event, I had an 11×17 sign made with my book cover on it as well as some postcards with the cover on one side and the book blurb on the back.  I used the sign for the table where I was signing books and put the postcards on tables around the room for people to take if they wished.  Everyone that bought my book also received a bookmark/business card with my contact info and website address, and a QR code with the details of where to buy Dead and Kicking online.  I put together two door prizes and had a draw towards the end of the evening.  When most of the crowd had arrived and had a chance to mingle and enjoy their refreshments, I said a few quick words to the group and then did a very brief reading from my book.  I don’t think everyone could hear me over the din of the crowd, but it was more than my introverted self usually likes to do and seemed to go over well with those that could hear me.

I would have to say overall that my Launch was a huge success.  I had a lot of fun and it looked like everyone else did too.  I held it at a local pub and on my invitations said it was a cash bar with complementary tapas (snacks).  I used a Facebook event to invite a lot of my local friends and family and then emailed the rest (using an invite I created with MailChimp). When all was said and done, about 50 people were in attendance and I sold out of books.  Not too shabby!

I’d like to say a big thank you to all my friends and family that attended.  It was wonderful to be able to celebrate this achievement with you.  I hope you all enjoy Dead and Kicking.  If you do, please write a review at your favourite online retailer or Goodreads.  If you don’t then remember pass it on to someone with better taste!