Oakville Signing

Attended at the Chapters store in Oakville on Saturday (April 23) for a signing event. For the first time, I actually had people lining up to meet me. I sold 7 books in the first 30 minutes. People were lovely and treated me with great interest and respect. Of course, I had a couple of rude people who gave me a dirty look or said something snoddy as they passed my table.

All in all it was a lovely time. I had some really great chats and I was open and honest which seemed to sell more books. It’s definitely a bonus having 5 books of different genres for sale. Usually, if someone showed interest, they found one to buy.
It was also a very pleasant store. Staff were friendly. Laura, the manager who was in charge of me, was friendly and efficient. She had everything ready for me and checked on me several times throughout the day.
I’m sure you’re all wondering how many I sold. Well I sold 13 books and made $143. That money goes to paying off what I paid to buy the books. Since I self-publish, I have to pay for my own copies. Each book costs about $4 and with shipping another $3. So each book cost me $7 and I sell them for $20. The bookstore takes 45% so I make $11 a book or a $4 profit. Not bad eh?
I’m very lucky to have my best friend and next door neighbour drive me to all my signings. I love to drive around town but I’m terrified to drive on the highway. Just can’t do it. When I told that to Miriam, she offered to drive. Now, its become a bit of a tradition and something we can do together. These Chapters stores are usually in big store centres with lots of great places to shop. While I’m selling, Miriam goes shopping. She loves to shop and always has a few bags of stuff when we get home.
Miriam has been driving me in her car and I would pay her gas. Then she mentioned Friday that her airconditioning unit was broken and she worried the day would be hot and she can’t stand the heat. So she asked if we could take my car. I’m like duh and hit my hand on my forehead. Of course we should be taking my car. Miriam is an excellent driver and my car is easy to drive so of course we should be taking my car. I fill up the car when I want so no worries about gas. Also I should be putting the wear and tear on my car not hers.
We both couldn’t believe how well everything worked by taking my car. Now I can leave my books in the car and not have to leave them in the house. This is much easier for me. I’m so happy.
My next signing is not until Saturday, May 14th at the Erin Mills Power Centre and am looking forward to it.
What are your signing experiences?
Have fun,
Patty

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