Writing a book is only the first step to becoming a successful author. Whether you’re traditionally publishing or self-publishing, you need to help readers find your book. This means marketing.
Marketing begins before your book is released and is a constant part of being an author. One of the most important stages of marketing is your book launch. A well-planned launch event will surround your book with hype and increase sales.
To help you plan your event, the following lists break down the 6 main factors to consider.
1. Budget
How much will you spend on the event?
- Number of guests
- Renting a venue
- Printing marketing materials
- Paid online advertising
- Food and/or drinks
- Renting equipment
- Gift for guest speaker
2. Venue
How will you decide where to host the event?
- Popularity among readers (e.g. bookshop, library)
- Public transport and/or parking
- Access for people with disability
- Food and/or drinks
- PA system and/or music
- Signing table and chairs
3. Marketing
How will people find out about the event?
- Social media channels
- Online advertising
- Email marketing and/or invitations
- Print media (e.g. flyers, merchandise)
- Press release
4. Essentials
What do you need to bring to the event?
- Copies of your book*
- Point of sale system*
- Merchandise
- Pen for signing books
- Food and/or drinks*
- Camera and/or photographer
- Gift for guest speaker
5. Entertainment
What are you going to do at the event?
- Speech
- Interview by guest speaker
- Question and answer session
- Book reading
- Competition and/or raffle
- Book sale and signing
- Cake cutting and/or toast
6. Running sheet
What is your running order for the event?
- Start time
- Entertainment activities
- Distribution of food and/or drinks
- Book signing
- Mingling with guests
- Expected finish time
*Some venues will provide this.
Your book launch
If you’re in the process of planning a book launch, I hope this list helps you out and you have a fantastic event! I’ve really enjoyed all the book launches I’ve been to, the first of which was Four Dead Queens, and most recently How to Make a Movie In 12 Days. I’m all for supporting authors, especially if it’s their debut. What book launch events have you been to?