Writing conferences – why you should go!

I just attended my first writing conference last weekend! And I wish I’d gone long before now. I want to share my experience and give you some tips for attending writing conferences!

For this first conference I went to the Asheville Christian Writers Conference set in beautiful Asheville, NC. It was gorgeous with the mountains and trees. I saw deer, peacocks (I think), squirrels, and birds. I can only imagine how wonderful it looks in the fall. ACWC takes place at The Cove – Billy Graham’s Training Center, and my room was in the building next to the conference center.

Thank goodness I chose to drive through the mountains during the day. It was snowing some and it’s very curvy and narrow lanes with lots of big trucks.

What did I learn? Everything!! I took so many notes and went to workshops on using social media correctly and to my advantage as a writer, marketing, critique groups, using backstory, hooks, and so much more.

I have notes that I need to go through and sort and continue to learn from, and I can’t wait!

Tips for writing conferences

I’ve been to homeschooling conferences before, so the same kind of rules apply!

• Plan ahead – get the information you need upfront on the weather, how big of a convention or conference, what your lodging will be like, etc.
• Take notes – take a notebook and a couple of pens (you might lose one!)
• Wear good shoes – especially if you’ll be walking in the mountains
• Take a break if you need – it’s easy to get overwhelmed, and it’s kind of “people-y” at conferences. Take a break and relax whenever you need. You’ll learn better that way.
• Use a backpack or crossbody purse – save your back!
• Take and exchange business cards – I printed some last minute and I wish I’d exchanged more just to keep in touch with other writers.
• Take pictures – enjoy yourself!
• Ask questions – At ACWC the people were incredibly friendly and willing to answer questions, so ask!
• Visit with people you don’t know – I didn’t know anyone going to this conference. It’s hard, but push yourself to talk to other people.

Contests at writing conferences

The conference had a writing contest. I entered and placed as 1st runner-up in fiction! It was so exciting!! At first I didn’t realize she had called my name!

Make sure to enter contests if they’re available. You never know what will happen!

I’d love to hear your experiences with writing conferences. I have an online one I’m attending this month and then first part of May I’m going to one in Missouri. Can’t wait!

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Read What is a Cozy? to learn more about cozy mysteries and read Writing Conflict to learn more on how to do it! Then, follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to my newsletter to keep up with news about my book and any special offers!

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Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married for over 37 years, have 5 amazing kids, and have 3 adorable grandkids. I homeschooled our three youngest children and used to blog about homeschooling. I also taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! My first cozy mystery – Birds Alive! – released Feb. 27, 2024!

When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)