My First Book Signing!

I had my first book signing on President’s Day of 2013. It was in my hometown of Newberry, South Carolina at an independent book store, Books on Main. I was nervous about doing my signing for many reasons:

My book near the register!

1. I’ve read reports from other writers who say book signings are a waste of time and they don’t generate many sales.
2. The signing was on a Monday, and even though it’s a holiday it’s still Monday.
3. Would people actually show up or care to come to my first signing?

Well, y’all, I was more than pleasantly surprised. The owners of Books on Main were great. Randy worked with me to get the date set up and his daughter Kira graciously agreed to keep the store opened past their usual time on a Monday. I had a fantastic time laughing and talking with Kira.

Not only is it a book store, but they have coffee! The Newberry blend is superb, and I highly recommend it if you’re ever in downtown Newberry.

Me and owner Kira

I’m still excited to that so many people from my past came out and showed their love and support. Not only did friends from high school and family show up, but two of my high school teachers and my kindergarten teacher! I hope Ms. Betty doesn’t mind the spicy parts 🙂

Signing a book for my kindergarten teacher.

What really threw me for a loop were the random purchases from complete strangers. There was a lady who lives out of town and just happened to be at the bookstore. She recognized my face from the article in Lexington Life Magazine and picked up a copy of my book. Then there was the owner of the local GM dealership who popped in for coffee and chocolate. We got to talking, and not only did he buy a book for his wife but agreed to an interview (my new series revolves around a family that owns several car dealership franchises).

At the end of the day, every copy the store ordered sold except one. And while it wasn’t hundreds of books, it did make my first signing a success. Not just due to sales, but for the welcome home feeling I got being there. No matter where I move to, I’ll always be glad to say I come from a great town with great people.