When Woulda Been first came out in August, 2019, I had high hopes of lots of book signings and presentations. I entered several contests praying for good outcomes which would provide more marketing opportunities. I paid for ads in Monsters, INC and the IBPA eBlasts for libraries and elementary school media centers. From the eBlasts, I received email lists of those who had clicked on my book ads. I posted on Facebook, etc. etc. Sells were good at first, then slumped after Christmas...but I still was able to manage to have an author event at the local Barnes & Noble and a local bookstore in February.
Then the shut down. School media centers and public libraries stopped book orders. Book stores closed. Presentations and book signings were canceled.
Fortunately, my publisher, Wisdom House Books of Chapel Hill, asked me to participate the the Virtual School Library Journal Day of Dialogue as part of the author group from Wisdom House. That was a different, but good experience, netting a few sells.
So now what? Reconsidering marketing strategies with minimal cost right now is a challenge. But my passion for Woulda Been and how it can provide support during the grief process won't let me give up.
So here I am with a blog. Trying something new. A different avenue. In addition, I was interviewed by Connect Iredell and an article about my efforts in my vineyard and as author were highlighted. I did my first Zoom author event on Monday evening which I hope will not be the last. A local venue that carries my books is allowing me to do an author event on Sunday afternoon.
It is scary, these unchartered waters! I plan to keep paddling.