SCBWI Carolinas Fall Conference

It's been a few weeks since I returned from the SCBWI Carolinas conference in Mooresville, NC. I've wanted to write a blog post ever since, but I've been a busy little bee! I've been too consumed with my writing!

I gained so much insight from the conference. Even after the first session I attended (a half-day intensive on the publishing process), the information I walked away with exceeded my expectations. I figured I'd go to the conference, network a little, and hear other authors' stories. I had no idea there would be so many sessions offering tangible advice. I also half-expected the conference to nudge us toward self-publishing, and it didn't. It primarily focused on traditional publishing, which cemented for me that that is the route I want to take.

The most rewarding aspect of the weekend was the opportunity to immerse myself in creativity and be surrounded by like-minded individuals. The conference provided a much-needed break from the daily grind of parenting and a day job, and I found myself brimming with new creative ideas. The experience was a catalyst for my writing, and I couldn't wait to put pen to paper.

Since returning, I've drafted two new manuscripts, and I've been querying one of them. The idea came to me instantly when--during one of the sessions--we were asked to develop a high-concept picture book pitch. I shared mine with the group, and the vibration in the room and murmurs of approval helped me see that it really WAS a great concept! I couldn't sleep that night, as the story elements just kept coming to me. I put notes in my phone to make sure I didn't forget them the morning.

At this point, I've queried ten agents and two editors. A significant benefit of the conference is the ability to submit to editors directly AND have a lead with the agents who attended. The hardest part is waiting. I know I may not hear anything (good or bad) for a month or more. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the timing works out, and there's an agent who likes my work. After all, all you need is "one yes!"

All in all, the biggest takeaway from the conference is my self-confidence. I don't know what possessed me to share my work aloud, not once, but twice, with the group. I had every intention of remaining anonymous and just absorbing the information quietly. But I'm so glad I did. The response I received was amazing. It validated that I belong in the writing community and has helped me be more open about my journey, even with people I know and love. Each day, my Imposter Syndrome is dwindling a bit more, and I am really starting to believe it when I say, "I am a writer!"