National Black Book Festival 2015

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In February of this year I paid a deposit for a vendor/author table at the National Black Book Festival, which wasn't scheduled until October 2015. My book was still in the editing phase but I used the festival as momentum to finish the book and I looked forward to attending hoping it would help legitimize me as an author.

Past festivals boasted some very well known authors and after being around for more than half a decade I was convinced this was a pretty big deal. It was also an added bonus that it was taking place in my hometown- Houston.  Side note: I actually asked a friend who had attended about her experience the year prior and she told me NOT to attend that it wasn't worth it but I had to see for myself. . .I had very high hopes despite her warnings. 

The festival itself was scheduled for three days and I could draw this post out with a nit-picking critique but I will just say overall it was a bit of a disappointment.

PROS:  I met other authors and we exchanged stories, tips and information that I am certain will be beneficial as my journey as an author continues to unfold. I got to hear Roland Martin speak.. .he was extremely candid as he talked about self publishing, sharing some very useful information.  

CONS: I sold a dismal amount of books after being told that 1,000 people would come through the festival over two days (there were more authors than readers/visitors on both days). It rained and I am certain that was ONE deterrent but after speaking to other authors I don't think it was really promoted well and the location may have also kept people away, it definitely needs to be more centrally located. . .I traveled over 45 miles ONE WAY two days in a row!

All in all it was definitely a learning experience. I would not attend the festival in the future as a vendor but depending on the author/speaker line up I might go IF it moved closer to downtown. 

It's really unfortunate because it is an amazing concept but I don't think the marketing and promotion is being maximized. I do hope that it turns around and returns to the glory days I heard about a few years ago. 
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