Brittany Maresh

writer

Here’s my preliminary list of things to bring to a workshop or conference. I modify it a little depending on where I’m going and what kind of conference it is. It’s really a reminder to me, but if it helps you make your own list, feel free to so on and so forth.

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Clothes and Toiletries

• For hotel-and-city conferences “Business casual”—slacks, possibly a skirt. Comfortable but professional. And modest, please.
• Casual clothes—for before/after hours like hanging out on the beach, or walking on trails. You’ll know more about the area, so you should know whether to bring a swim suit or parka.
• Cute but modest pajamas—for those midnight runs to the ice machine.
• Make-up—especially if you are a shy girl, for confidence boosting.
• Toiletries—you will want to shower and deodorize each day! Stinky writers are lonely writers.

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Writing Material

• Notebook—I prefer half-sized legal pads. This is mostly for notes.
• Pens—Be sure to bring new pens, since you’ll do a lot of writing.
• Laptop—if it’s at a hotel with internet, for note transferring, blogging, twitter, so forth. If in a cabin in the woods, not such a good idea.
• Business cards—to exchange with other writers. If an editor/publisher is interested, they’ll give you theirs, instead.
• Highlighters—a lot of writing conferences have hand-outs, and highlighters make it easier to mark down the most important bits.
• First five pages of your current work—recommended by Janet Reid, so I’ve added it to the list.
• Query letter and elevator pitch—come prepared and professional. Bring what you need.

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Miscellaneous

• Throw-away copy of your favorite book—I always bring one to give out if someone expresses interest. It lets me share my favorite author, and gives me extra room in the suitcase for the home trip.
• Spending money—you’ll find something you want to spend it on. Best to have it available.

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Notes and reminders about behavior

• Be polite—mind your manners and avoid stepping on toes.
• Be humble—nobody wants you boasting about how great you are. Everyone can learn something new, even you.
• Be clean—nobody likes a stinky writer.
• Be careful—you don’t want to say anything you’ll regret, or do something embarrassing.
• Be confident—you’re networking, so don’t be shy.• Be friendly—you’re here to network, learn, and have fun.