Laura J. Davis

Are you going to Write! Canada this year? I am ready and excited to be seeing many of my friends and making new ones. Honestly, I think that is what I enjoy the most about the conference. Seeing everyone again! It's like a family reunion.

Of course, it doesn't hurt that the conference (held in Guelph) offers great plenary speakers, continuing classes and workshops. That doesn't include the appointments you can make with agents, editors, publishers and other authors, for manuscript critiques or to pitch your next book. It can be a bit overwhelming for first-timers, but I think it can be a bit overwhelming even for those who go back every year. Why? Because there is so much to take in!

If you are going for the first time here are some valuable tips on how best to enjoy the conference:

• Don't freak out over talking to publishers, editors, agents, etc. They are people too and they know you are nervous. RELAX. If they have something negative to say about your writing, welcome it - criticism leads to improvement. If they love your writing then follow through with whatever they have asked of you (sending them a proposal).

• At breakfast, lunch and dinner DO sit at a different table each time. The faculty at the conference each have their own table, so it is a good opportunity to sit with them in a less threatening atmosphere. Yes, it is wonderful to sit with your friends, but the conference is all about networking too, so make the most of it. Word of warning  - let the faculty member eat his/her meal in peace. Don't keep asking them questions, so that they can't get their fork in their mouth. Basically, don't hog the conversation at the table. You aren't the only one who wants to talk to them.
  

• Do make sure to bring an umbrella, flashlight (if you are staying on grounds), earplugs (for snoring roommates), mosquito repellant (I hear we're having a bonfire this year - is that true?) and don't forget a notepad and pen.

• Don't follow faculty members into the washroom to pitch a book to them. This has actually happened. 

• Do come prepared. Be ready to pass out business cards or one-sheets. Are you an article writer? Bring a binder with your tear-sheets and you can display your work for all to see. Do you have a book out? Make sure to bring copies to sell in the bookstore.
  

Above all - have fun, relax and soak in the atmosphere.This year, I deliberately chose not to schedule a workshop on one of my days there, so that I could calm my spirit, listen to the Lord and just sit and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the campground. Plus, I know my body and unfortunately it can't keep up with the pace of my mind. So, I am bringing my journal and taking a long break in a cozy chair on the front lawn.

For those who have attended the conference before, what advice can you offer "first-timers"?