Why? Time! It takes so much time to arrange a book signing. I did the whole thing with lots of help from my husband, kids, and friends. Fifty people attended, and we had finger foods, cupcakes, cookies, goodie bags, and giveaways. I had the best time!

But it was a lot of work. I don’t regret any of it, but this time, I’m focusing on book signings with multiple authors, so all I have to do is show up. Of course, I’ll bring my books, a pen, a newsletter signup sheet, some décor . . . you get the point.

But, if I had to do the first one over again, here’s what I would change to make it more cost- and time-effective.

Planning:

1. Limit the refreshments to cake/cupcakes, mini sodas/water.
2. Ask for donations (food, swag bag items, and giveaway/raffle items).
3. One and a half to two hours is perfect. Do it mid-morning or mid-afternoon so people don’t expect food.
4. Party tip: About half the number of people you’ve invited will attend.
5. Set a budget. I didn’t, and I wish I had.
6. Ask for help. Whether you choose to host a small, medium, or huge bash, you’ll need it. Jobs may include food, music, photography, someone responsible for money, etc.

Supplies needed:

This depends on how many people you expect, where you’re holding it, and how much food you’ll have. But in general, these are the things you’ll need:

• Books—take plenty.
• Change—and something to keep it in. Create a sign for payment besides cash. QR codes for alternate payment options are helpful.
• Pens—to sign the books!
• Bookmarks, business cards, or postcards. (Postcards are my favorite for the money.)
• Tablecloths, plates, cups, napkins, and silverware to serve food/drinks
• Swag bags—these might include a bookmark, a pen or pencil, and a sticker.
• Newsletter sign-up sheets—make these front and center!
• Decorations—use your book’s theme or cover for inspiration.
• Tape, permanent marker, scissors—these always come in handy.

Don’t forget

Above all, have fun! This is your time to shine. Plan to speak, read a bit of your book, and have a Q&A session. Attendees will be curious about the writing life. Also, thank people—in person, by email, or by sending a thank you note.

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Jen Dodrill is living out her dreams on the pages of her books, bringing readers compelling stories of inspiration and hope for good times and bad. Her first book, Birds Alive! (an Empty-nesters Cozy Mystery), released in 2024. Book #2 in the series, Where’s the Quetzal?, came out in February 2025. Book #3, No Egrets, will be published in 2026. For more information about Jen, her books, and more, check out her blog, Jen Dodrill: Hope and Help for Any Writing Season.