What I've learned from launching my first novel

I had my book launch for The Pastor's Wife Wears Biker Boots in August and had a glorious time with friends and family.

The dream of my book launch party wouldn't have been reality without a lot of help from friends. It's hard for me to ask for help, but I'm extremely blessed to have friends who willingly gave up time and energy to support me.

I did two launches. One online and one in "real life."

The online launch party was a blast. You can read the comments here:  https://www.facebook.com/events/175311089316094/

For the 3-D (real life) launch, the ladies at my church helped me host a ladies retreat. Everyone that attended got a swag bag and we gave away prizes every thirty minutes or so! I invited Shelley Wilburn to speak at the retreat and her husband to speak on Sunday morning. They have a unique ministry that you can read about on their website, Where2.org.

  

 Here are the ads I ran for the retreat and book signing:

And my friend, Gigi, wrote this on her business windows downtown:

Here are pics of the party:

The refreshments were made by my friends (I provided the supplies except for the cookies, they were a gift). And I rented a popcorn machine for the weekend -- it was a hit! Since it was a weekend rental, we were able to have it for Sunday and gave away popcorn after church. The kids loved it.

Here are some things to know about launching a book/having a book launch party:

• Begin planning months in advance.
• Budget for unexpected expenses.
• Decide early what you want to give away as prizes. I mostly gave away bargain books from Christianbook.com and keychains at the retreat. At the book launch party the giveaways were mostly wax warmers and candles, and free copies of my book.
• Realize that no one is as excited about your book launch as you are. Don't bring it up in every conversation.
• Some people will be excited. Be excited about those people!
• No one owes you a read.
• Just because you send an invitation doesn't mean people will come. Nor are they obliged to. Get over it if they don't show up and focus on those who are there. Don't let their absence steal your enthusiasm or joy.
• Think of a phrase to write in your book when you sign unless they have their own phrase they want to use.
• Be grateful for friends. Show them you care.
• You need as many people to help clean up as you do to set up. 
• Have change available for cash purchases.
• Choose which passages of your book you will read aloud but keep it short. Again, no one loves your book as much as you do.
• Take time at the retreat to thank those you need to acknowledge. I gave "my posse" mugs with the theme of the retreat on them. And I gave each family member something unique that they would appreciate. Nothing fancy or expensive, but it let them know I appreciate their support. A writer's family sacrifices for the dream, too.

What made the book launch a success? Fellowship with friends and family. That's the bottom line for me. The people I loved shared my exciting day. I am blessed indeed!