Frequently Asked Questions - Authors
Is it too late to be a Featured Author for AADNOLA?
Yes. We had an author cap of 80 for this year and it filled rather quickly. We've started a wait list in case any of the Featured Authors have to step down due to unforeseen circumstances.
Why is there a cap for Authors?
Because AAD is for readers first and foremost, and too many authors means not enough readers. AAD started as a con that was more intimate, allowing for readers to really get to know the authors attending, to further knowledge of those authors books. With our attendance cap, we have to cap authors as well.
Even if I'm not a Featured Author, how do I register for the book signing?
Only Featured Authors are registered for the book signing. We have limited space allotment and this is one of the major reasons the number of featured authors was limited as well.
How do I sign up to be on panels?
Panel spots are reserved for Featured Authors as a perk. Unless you are already designated Feature Author, AAD cannot give you panel options (unless you’re an industry or publisher).
Can I still contribute swag to the Welcome bags or other events?
Any person attending the convention (Author, Blogger, Publisher, or Industry) may contribute promo to the welcome bags or their publishers events.
Will there be a Promo Alley or room?
Authors After Dark doesn’t have a promo alley because of space restraints. We do invite any person attending the convention (Author, Blogger, Publisher, or Industry) to contribute promo to the welcome bags, provided they abide by the convention stipulations:
1. Paper promo is limited to the following: professionally done bookmarks, excerpt booklets and signed cover flats
2. We ask for 400 pieces of promo for the welcome bags
3. Welcome bag promo the attendees prefer is premium promo (pins, pens, magnets and high end promo)
Why is paper promo limited?
In 2011, AAD threw away 9 bags of paper promo alone, consisting of postcards, flyers, homemade bookmarks, business cards and “trading” cards. To limit our impact on both the environment and your wallet, we have decided this was the best course of action.
If I’m an author attending the convention, but not a featured author, what are my options?
Authors that are attending can promote themselves to the attendees, as AAD is first and foremost about connecting with readers. Unfortunately, this will have to be done via networking at meals and general events because we do not have the facilities to host every author for the convention. All authors are also encouraged to donate a gift basket for the con’s charity raffle as this will also help to get your promo out there.
With 2013 already planned by way of location, are you taking author requests yet?
Yes, but not till after March 15th, 2012. This is so we can ensure that 2012 is handled correctly, but that we can give a teaser of what to expect for 2013 via our prepromotional posters and info. Interested parties should contact Stella after March 15th to open a dialogue about securing a spot for their publisher, company or themselves.
Why were some authors already accepted for 2012 before general registration opened?
Authors accepted early came from three camps: 1. Authors that were asked to do 2011 but couldn't and committed to 2012 without knowing the location. 2. Authors that wrote with NOLA as a backdrop to become our camp counselors, and 3. Authors that have publishers that committed early and singled said authors out for parties, promotions or giveaways.
Is there criteria for author acceptance?
Yes and No. Authors will be accepted on a publisher basis, especially for small press. Why? Because AAD is first and foremost about the readers, and publishers that work with us to promote their authors and company to the readers get first considerations. Please note that each publisher will be able to guarantee up to 5 people (4 most likely) and those people will be the ones they are working with to do parties, goodies and freebies.
How does one become an author for AAD if their publisher is not working with the con?
Simply register from the registration page.
Do you offer Agent/ Editor appointments?
Yes, but on a limited basis. AAD is a reader con first and foremost, but we do cater to the writers and aspiring writers as well.