Frequently Asked Questions - General
What is Authors After Dark’s focus?
Authors After Dark focuses on the reader-author relationship through education of titles, genres and books in general. It is a true reader con, putting readers wants and needs at the forefront, and caters to all types of readers of romance, fantasy (including urban fantasy) and horror.
What does my Registration fee cover?
Registration covers your meals (3 lunches, 1 dinner dinner and 1 light breakfast) first and foremost. Unlike other cons, we don’t charge a registration fee, and then heap on fees for other things like food and events. Truth of the matter is you DON’T pay a registration fee, you pay for the experience of meals with your favorite authors, and other charges (like hotel charges) are incurred by the convention, ensuring an affordable event almost anyone can afford. For more information on registration fees please see our registration page.
Are their other costs?
Occasionally there are workshops that are pay workshops, but none are more then $10.00 and they are all on a voluntary basis.
Is there a special room price at the hotel?
Every year we negotiate with the host hotel for a fair price that wont break the attendee’s budget. For New Orleans, we have negotiated a $119.00 a night double occupancy rate, with a charge of $30.00 per person added to that for every extra person staying in the room in question, up to 4 people.
How many attendees can be in one room?
All hotels will take 4 (quads) in a regular double queen room. The price might be higher then the advertised quoted price but they will take it.
When and how do I register for my room?
Personal hotel reservation links will be sent via email once registration is placed for the convention. Use this link to reserve your room. Link is for one time use only. Reservations made by phone will not qualify for the convention room block or discounted room pricing.
Is there a shuttle from the airport?
Yes. Please visit the Venue Page for more information. You will have to make a reservation.
Are their age limits to the event?
AAD is strictly an adult convention, so no one under 18 years old is permitted to attend.
Do you give passes for Press?
No. Most conventions have money allotted for that kind of thing, but with AAD, everyone is equal. If you want to attend, you will pay the price and participate.
What should I wear? Is the convention casual dress?
Yes! Unlike the business cons, this is more relaxing. Wear what your comfortable in, whether its Pj’s and bunny slippers or full-blown elaborate costumes, we don’t judge.
Do I need to bring a costume?
No, but dressing up is such fun, and it’s a safe and accepting environment. We encourage costumes for the parties, but it isn’t mandatory.
Are meals included?
Registration includes 3 lunches, 1 dinner and 1 light breakfast on Sunday morning.
Are drinks included?
Yes and no. Some events have hosted open bars others will have cash bars.
Can I have a party in my room?
Sure. Just don’t break anything, and no goat… please *shudder*.
When should I arrive?
AAD starts with a welcoming party on the evening of August 8th. The convention officially starts on morning of the first day, at 10 am. We suggest you come in the day before to get all settled in so you don’t miss anything.
When does the convention end?
AAD ends before noon on the final listed day.
When do I need to pay?
Payment is due upon registration.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations for full refunds can be made till June 30th, 2012. After that partial refunds will be given till July 15th, 2012. Any cancellations after this time will not receive a refund. In the event of a needed refund, please have patience. Refunds will be given NO EARILER then 24 hours AFTER the request has been made.
I registered, what now?
Join the online forum and follow the blog for all the updates and fun. Watch your email for confirmation and your link for hotel registration. Use this link to reserve your room. Link is for one time use only.
Do I need to register for the panels I want to attend?
No. All panels are open to those who register for the con.
Can I take pictures?
Yes! Take tons! There is nothing pretentious about AAD! Still, ask an author before snapping a picture, as some are incognito and would prefer to not be outted.
What do I put as my badge name?
Anything you want, but make it something you will answer to!
Will there be a booksigning?
Yes. Every year from 2-4 on the Saturday of the event, we hold a booksigning for the attendees and general public. Attendance for the general public is free.
Can I bring my own books to be signed?
Yes, but please keep it limited as not to monopolize an authors time. Many are interested in meeting them, and they should have the chance to.