What to Bring to an Author Fair

While most libraries, schools, and bookstores are super hosts when they hold an author fair, you’ll be more relaxed and a better guest if you aren’t stressing over making change or having a coughing fit. Below is a list of things to pack in your Author Fair Bag that will let you be the awesome person you want your readers to remember.

• Your books
  Well, duh.
   
• Book price and tax cheat sheet
  Because it’s rough trying to do math while chatting, signing and keeping an eye on the merchandise.
   
• Credit card reader
  A Square, Paypal, or other credit card reading device makes it a cinch to for readers to buy your books. They also do the math for you for cash sales and email receipts.
   
• Ample change
  There is bound to be someone who won’t use a credit card.
   
• Extra box of books in car
  No one wants to drag boxes of unsold books back to the car, but boy, will you be kicking yourself if you run out!
   
• Several pens
  Have plenty of back ups. Practice to see what kind of pen you like best for ease of writing and a good appearance.
   
• Self-sticking notes
  Ask folks to write down the name they want you to sign a book for. There are far too many variations and you won’t remember as you’re writing even if they just told you.
   
• Reading glasses
  Because some of us can’t read the Square or the notes without them.
   
• Business cards, Bookmarks and other Leave-Behinds
  Some folks won’t or can’t make a purchase today, but they might put your book on their Wish List or ask for it at their library. These are cheap ways to build your brand.
   
• Camera or smartphone
  Get someone to take a photo of you at your table. If it can be while you’re talking with readers, even better. Also take some photos of the the rest of the fair. These will be great later on your website, in your social media and in your press releases. Extra points if you can post photos from your phone while you’re still at the fair.
   
• Water bottle
  To stay hydrated when chatting up visitors to your table.
   
• Mints/breath spray
  To keep those visitors chatting at your table.
   
• Tissues
  To mop up spills, catch sneezes, etc.
   
• Place to put dirty tissues
  Have a baggie handy. There might not be a trash can nearby and damp tissues don’t belong near your books or in your pocket.
   
• Lip balm
  All that chatting and smiling is going to take its toll.
   
• Fabric refresher spray
  When you’re nervous, it could be helpful.
   
• Sanitary products
  When you're focussed on books, you might overlook normal planning.
   
• Comb, Hairspray
  For men or women. Wind, rain, the humidity, or the lack of humidity can mess up whatever look you carefully cultivated before you left the house
   
• Makeup, Small mirror
  Having the ability to make touch-ups, even if you can’t get away from your table can relieve worry.
   
• Hand lotion
  Take care of your hands and nails both before and during an event. If you’re signing books, they’re looking at your hands.

You may not need all of these things at every event, but if you aren’t prepared, there will be that one horrible time that will have you cursing yourself. So just pack the bag. Knowing you’re ready for anything will give you an extra boost of confidence and that confidence shows when you’re out introducing people to your books.

Photo by Oleksandr P