Unexpected Moment at a Book Fair

This past Saturday, my fellow author friend, Karen Grunst and I shared a booth at a book fair. We arrived around 8:30 to setup a tent, tables, and books. Thank goodness for the tent because the wind picked up throughout the day, so we had some protection. Nothing beats fighting the elements, as you’re grabbing books, stands, and other items off the ground as the wind blows them away.

The book fair was held on the parking lot of Handmade, a quaint coffee shop. (They have a yummy chai tea latte). Karen and I were on the corner space, so people saw our booth first (I liked our spot for sure).

I was thrilled with the turnout as a steady stream of readers came. Book signings and book fairs are a highlight because I enjoy interacting with new acquaintances along with friends and family. I conversed with so many interesting people, but nothing prepared me for an unexpected moment.

I met a young woman from Michigan. She was raised in the southeast portion of the state, while I come from the northern region. She’s returning to Michigan this summer to attend a friend’s wedding in Gaylord at an upscale barn venue. Wait-what? Could she be going to my parents’ venue? For those new to this community, my parents converted our farm into an upscale wedding venue called Sonshine Barn. (Hence, the farmhouse where my character and his family spend a winter wonderland Christmas.)

I asked if the venue is at Sonshine Barn Wedding and Event Center. She wasn’t sure, so she texted the bride, and are you ready for this? Yes, it is! What a small world! Meeting her and discovering this nugget of commonality was one of my highlights at the book fair.

Also, my in-laws came by. And they also blessed Karen and I by grabbing our lunch, so we didn’t have to stand in the long line at the coffee shop. There was steady flow of foot traffic, so their generous gesture gave us more opportunities to connect with readers.

I met Holly, who I had conversed with a few months ago via email. She found Christmas at Sonshine Barn at a lending library, so she came to the Book Fair and bought Book 2. You never know how people will find your books.

Thanks also to Janet Leach for stopping by and checking out the book table. Janet isn’t just a great friend, but served on the ARC team for Love at The Mayo. I’m always blown away by friends who support my writing.

Overall, I had fun meeting readers and fellow authors. At one booth, I knew all three authors, but hadn’t meet Andrea C. Neil. Since I’m serving as an ARC reader for her latest release, (she also proofread my dad’s book), it was cool to meet her face to face. Also, she’s the second bird at Two Birds Editing, (the other bird is my editor, Michele Chiappetta.) If you need editing services, check them out! They’re so talented.

Shout out to our husbands who came early to set up and after to break down. I’m grateful for Robert’s support!

After we finished loading our vehicles, Karen and I went inside the coffee shop to capture this picture as a celebration for a fun book event.

Our next event is April 12th at Magic City Books. If you’re local, stop by and see us!