October 22nd marks the commencement of the 23rd annual Surrey International Writers’ Conference, a non-profit writers’ event that provides professional development to both new and novice writers.
This year, 54 editors, agents, authors, film makers, and social media gurus from all of the world (including LA and New York, and as far as the UK and Australia) will be hosting over 80 workshops designed to help writers develop their craft.
Some of the workshop topics include:
- Traditional publishing
- How to properly pitch to an agent or editor
- Writing for beginners
- Magazine writing
- The basics of contract negotiations
- Writing history and memoir
- How to use Facebook to increase social media presence
- Writing YA (young adult)
- How to create memorable characters
This is not your average writers’ conference. The conference is run by a board, a conference coordinator, an administrative coordinator, and an amazing team of dedicated volunteers. Care is taken to make sure attendees have an incredible time, and detailed thought is put behind everything from food and drink, to workshops and pitch appointments.
Speaking of…
Pitch or Chat
Pitch your manuscript or writing ideas to top-tier acquiring editors and agents. When you register for the Surrey International Writers’ Conference, you are automatically guaranteed at least one 10 minute appointment with an agent or editor (pending available appointment times).
No manuscript? No problem! Make a Blue Pencil Café appointment, and speak to a published writer for 15 minutes about your interests. Questions? That’s perfect—they’re there to answer them.
Mad Men Themed Dinner
Every year, a new theme is chosen for the conference, but especially the Friday night dinner. This year’s theme is Mad Men. Dress in era-appropriate clothing, and have your photograph taken with your favourite presenter in front of our media wall by a professional photographer. Or maybe sip a dirty martini at the bar with that New York editor you’ve been dying to meet.
Who knows where the night might take you?!
Shock Theatre by Michael Slade
This fun, annual event is organized every year by crime fiction author Michael Slade. Come hang out and laugh at the presenters he ropes into filling roles—it’s hilarious.
Black-Tie Dinner
Okay, maybe just dressy(ish). But the Saturday dinner is a little more formal, and includes speeches, stories, and giveaways. The food is outstanding, thanks to the talented chefs at the Sheraton Guildford.
Author Book Signing
Every Saturday before dinner is the author book signing. Taking place in a very large room on the first floor of the Sheraton Guildford Hotel, the signing event gives attendees (and the general public–anyone can attend!) the chance to meet their favourite authors and get their books signed.
The Bar
It’s exactly what it sounds like.
Hang around the hotel bar, and you’re likely to converse with presenters and other attendees. A great place to meet and laugh, the bar is a favourite place for everyone to hang out before and after dinner. (And believe me, there are some interesting people here.)
More
As if we don’t have enough for you to do, there is also a trade show to check out, keynote speeches by esteemed writers, and daily draws that promise great prizes.
So what are you waiting for? Register today at www.siwc.ca/registration and join another 449 attendees in learning everything there is to know about the writing and publishing industry. If you’re in the mood for some major motivation and inspiration, this conference was made for you.
We promise you’ll be back next year. Connect with us on:
