Happy Sunday, book peeps! As the weekend comes to a close, let’s dive into the world of book signings, focusing on my experiences at two newbie events: Readers Take Denver (RTD) and Charm City Romanticon (CCR).

RTD: Expectation vs. Reality

This weekend marked my return to RTD, and honestly, calling it a “dumpster fire” might be an understatement. Despite its promising concept and being only in its second year, RTD seemed to take a step backward. Picture this: excruciatingly long registration lines that lasted up to three hours, causing many to miss the opening events. Essential items like lanyards and swag bags ran out quickly, and there was a noticeable lack of coordination, leading to lengthy waits and general confusion. The volunteers, bless their hearts, seemed just as lost as the attendees due to inadequate training and information.

But here’s the real kicker: security was so lax that several authors reported stolen items—including boxes of books! Add to that the chaotic last-minute schedule changes, and you’ve got a recipe for frustration. Yet, through all this chaos, the authors and narrators were absolute gems, shining through with their patience and graciousness.

CCR: A Breath of Fresh Air

Now, let’s switch gears to Charm City Romanticon. Oh, what a breath of fresh air! CCR might be smaller in scale, but it punches way above its weight in terms of organization and charm. Everything about CCR screams ‘well-planned’—from the seamless attendee group management to the gorgeous hotel with its super helpful staff. The event feels intimate and exclusive, with just 25 authors and 150 tickets sold, ensuring everyone gets a chance to mingle and interact without feeling overwhelmed.

The panels are so well-organized that you can attend all three without a hitch, and the meals—oh, the meals! From boxed lunches to a PJ party, everything’s included in your ticket. It’s clear the Stalker Sisters know exactly what they’re doing, and they do it with a flair that makes everyone feel special.

So, What’s the Takeaway?

The stark contrast between RTD and CCR really highlights the impact of thoughtful event planning. While RTD was bogged down by its disorganization, CCR shone with its commitment to quality and attendee experience. This goes to show that bigger isn’t always better. If you’re feeling disillusioned by chaotic mega-events, consider exploring smaller, more intimate signings like CCR—you won’t be disappointed.

As a book blogger, I’ve seen my fair share of signings, and trust me, the size and scope of the event can make or break your experience. Don’t let one bad apple like RTD turn you off from the wonderful world of book events. Smaller, well-managed gatherings like CCR can offer a much more rewarding and enriching experience, truly feeding both your bookshelf and your soul.

Looking Ahead

Remember, book lovers, the world of book signings is vast and varied. While RTD might have missed the mark this year, there are plenty of gems out there like CCR waiting to be discovered. Keep exploring, keep reading, and let’s keep supporting our beloved authors in environments that honor their hard work and our passion for reading.

Until next time, keep turning those pages and exploring the world through the magic of books!