Writers Cantina...Registration Is Now Open!

 As sure as winter turns to spring and those who live in colder climes venture out from their hibernated states, a writer's mind turns to other things...creative things. It's perfect then, that we're about to enter the season of gatherings. Or, in other words...

Writing conventions.

Last year a group of friends and colleagues decided there ought to be yet another destination for those who want to improve their craft, and so the Writers Cantina Writers Conference was born. The newborn entity took its first steps last summer. This summer, we're seeing if it'll speak.

What will those first words be, I wonder.

If you're in the area June 28 - 29, 2024, check us out. For more information, check out the website by clicking: HERE. You can also register to let us know you're coming.

Writers Cantina focuses on providing practical and useful knowledge to both the novice and experienced writer. What I love about smaller conferences is the access you have to some incredible talent. There's something for everyone--those with the knowledge and experience helping those looking for help. 

Last year, was great. We're working to make this year even better.

Introducing Writers Cantina...Utah's Newest Writing Conference

 This summer, by the shores of a huge (and dwindling...) dead lake, an event where people of all ages, sizes, backgrounds, and abilities will gather for enlightenment, enrichment, and most of all, to get together and have a great time.

It's called, Writers Cantina, and its inaugural voyage takes place July 8, 2023.

I don't know how things go in other parts of the country, but I'd imagine other writers have access to in-person conventions and conferences. They're important for writers. There needs to be places where writers can get together for their own sanity. 

I'm fortunate enough to live in an area where there are many events that allow us to congregate. And up until covid hit, there were half a dozen or more conferences each year where we did just that. I think covid made us all realize how important these are.

You can access the website and register to attend by clicking: HERE.

How will it go? Time will tell. I'm planning on attending and if you're a writer in the Utah area, please check it out. We'd love to have you join us.

LUW, The Quills Conference...A Wonderful Event!

Years ago, I attended a League of Utah Writer's bootcamp. I attended for only one day. We spent the time critiquing a first chapter of a work in project. I thought my story was pretty good. They kind of ripped it apart. And that's a good thing. 

That was the last experience I has with LUW. Until today. Thanks to a good friend, I was given access to the LUW The Quills Conference, held above the University of Utah. It's a three-day affair. I missed the first day.

But I'm glad I went today.

It was great!

Over the past several years, when I've gone to writing conferences, the only panels I've attended were the ones I've been on. When not on a panel, I could usually be found in the vendor room trying to sell books. Today, I attended four classes and learned a great deal on many topics, all centered around making me a better writer.

At all these events I run into friends. One of my fondest memories when I think back on all the conferences I've attended is hanging out with friends. We talk writing, families, life, whatever comes up. This afternoon was no exception. It was great chilling with Jay and Glen.

The first panel I attended focused on how to better market yourself as a writer. The presenter is from a publishing house. They had stats and information about the different social media platforms. It's important information because as good a writer you are, you almost need to be better at marking what you wrote. 

After, I attended a first-page critique panel. They critiqued four story beginnings. I learned a lot even though I didn't have a story to critique. Getting immediate feedback from experts was invaluable information. I wished I had thought ahead and brought the beginning of my latest story.

Next, I learned about ten tips for writing by the much-respected Michaelbrent Collings. I've heard Michaelbrent speak numerous times. He's never disappointed. His advice is not only for writers, but he provides a way for you to enjoy your life, your progress, and where you currently are.

Finally, I sat in on a class where a few of us sat around the table and just talked about writing, the business that it is, and how to circumnavigate the confusing world of publishing, hosted by the badger-hat-wearing Dave Butler.

I don't know if I was able to absorb so much information because I'm excited about a new writing project I've recently begun, or because the presenters were great and I needed the information. Whatever it was, I learned, and found a renewed desire to write. I've got one more day to enjoy the event. Day One was a definite success.