Tuesday, May 31, 2011

FRP Cookbook University Recap

Last week approximately 50 existing or "thinking about" cookbook publishers attended FRP's annual Cookbook University. The energy was high and many great ideas where discussed and shared. The group was treated to presentations by the experienced FRP staff as well as outside guest presenters who were fantastic.

On Thursday, Billie Rose from The Junior League of Chattanooga shared ideas about the launch of Seasoned to Taste. She was truly a dynamic speaker and shared an idea I'd never heard before. Early on Friday morning we were entertained with a visit by renowned country music song writer George Teren. While George's songs had nothing to do with cookbooks his participation was a nice touch that could only be had in Nashville.

The last outside presenter was the talented cookbook author Pam Lyles. Pam spent most of an hour detailing marketing ideas that have made Da Cajn Critter such a success. One common trait that Billie and Pam exhibited was perserverence. Both shared numerous stories of meeting obstacles along the way until finally overcoming the hurdle.

If you or your organization has a cookbook for sale when is the last time you joined a forum such as the one I just described to learn from others and garner new knowledge?

Monday, May 9, 2011

The Changing World of Book Sales

In a simpler time a self-published author or group could approach local book and gift stores with pretty good assurance the store manager would buy the books to resell. The problem with that model today is that few local bookstores exist and the large chain stores require a distributor to buy from. Plus, the chain bookstores are in jeopardy of going by the wayside.

Does this mean success cannot be achieved for the self-publisher? Absolutely not! In fact, a savvy and energetic effort can result in more profits and greater sales than ever before. While there is no magic formula for success there are a few key components necessary for success.

Obviously a GREAT book product is a given in the equation. And while placement in the chain stores is desired there are many opportunities to sell direct through social media marketing. FRP's Cookbook University will devote considerable time to sharing the tools necessary for utilizing the social media phenomenon.

FRP Cookbook University is being held on May 19 and 20, 2011 in Nashville, TN. For more information, visit our website.