The one-day writers event was a big success, for me and other writers in the Pacific Northwest. Turn-out was good, but not so many people that you felt lost in a mob; the panels were enlightening and often entertaining; and the pitch sessions–held in the lovely airy atrium of the Embassy Suites Bellevue–were well managed. A special thanks to Chuck Sambuchino for managing to be charming even when he was so tired he could barely stand — and his speech had been stolen by someone who thought it was a handout!
Kudos to the event organizers for putting together a solid conference and for coping with a surprise challenge: One of the agents had travel difficulties and could not attend. The workshop staff worked quickly to notify all writers affected and offer them several options to choose between for the pitch slot they’d lost. Many seemed to take the chance to pitch to a different person–without a chance to research their new target, a gamble perhaps but one that could pay off handsomely.
A lot of peer-to-peer networking among writers occurred, especially during the lunch break as various groups went to area restaurants (from fast food to sushi, Indian, or American food within walking distance, and dozens in an easy drive). The Bellevue (Eastgate) location was easy to get to and parking was free which is always a plus on an all-day event. As a Seattle area local, I appreciated not having to compete with sports fan who were all driving into the city!
This conference was a high point in my writing career, with fruitful conversations with industry pros. More news on that later.
K.K. Bradley -- Books 