Jeanne's Blog

 As an author, images of the Natalie Seachrist Hawaiian Mysteries are my starting point for most visual projects these days. Even when I am introducing other projects, the center of my public interaction is this series. 

Most of the events in which I participate feature displays on at least one half of a rectangular luncheon size table, approximately six to eight feet in length and two feet in width. In the past, that has meant utilizing small posters, about 11 x 17 inches presented on tri-legged frames of wood, metal, and/or acrylic. These images have centered on a single book or project, which has meant an ever-growing number of items over the last few years. Even when I diligently refresh my tablescape during an event, by the end of a day there has been an accumulation of clutter.

With the current trio of titles within my mysteries, I decided that 2020 would be the year to introduce a fresh look. One that could be maintained easily throughout a day I have the opportunity to greet current and potential readers—or even organizations that might like me to present a motivational talk or seminar. With increasing emphasis on personal marketing, this seems especially prudent!

I began this undertaking by examining the books and other materials I want to present, as well as the decorative touches that visually present the Hawaiian Islands. Most of my books are offered in both hardcover and softcover editions. Accompanying signage is needed to highlight eBook and audible editions that are available at various online and brick-and-mortar locations.

 A visit to a local store fixture outlet often fulfill several of my needs.

~ Acrylic stands for over-sized postcards, bookmarks, and business cards
~ Clear plastic sales bags that display my book covers
~ Colorful bags for customers wishing to present gifts
~ A three-tier acrylic stand to hold three or more books per shelf

This last item has proving especially useful. While I am concerned about the stand’s fragile material, I find it preferable to the heavy weight of metal and wood alternatives I have been using. Properly wrapped, the stand will be easily transported to distant locales for book events. Best of all, regardless of the surface on which the stand sits, my award-winning book covers shine brightly upon it!

At the beginning of my last major marketing plan, I found myself staring at signs in every direction of the showroom. From the front door to the walls and counters, display cases and bins, text and images alerted me to the joys of an array of “toys” for introducing my products…and myself. Hmm. In the past I've simply enlarged book covers, matted them on gold cardstock, and laminated them. 

At that time however, something sturdier and more elegant was desirable. With a trio of primary products, a triangle seemed most appropriate for the 18 x 24 inch poster I was planning. My next question was the sequencing of the information to be displayed. Should I place the books in chronological order? Or, should I emphasize the last publication. At the time, I had only three books in the mystery series to promote. Because the third, Murders of Conveyance had recently won First Place for Fiction Adventure-Drama in the New Mexico-Arizona Book Awards, I opted for the latter option.

In the final days of preparation, I considered colors and textures, with particular attention paid to the background. Eventually, I realized that the jewel tones of my book jackets scream out for the classic jewelry store option of simple black. The issue of fonts also arose. In short order, my wonderful artist, Yasamine June, sent me the necessary information to present promo text in the same font as that on the book jackets.

Initially, I was delighted with my creation. The image of each book sat on a black background with harmonizing text in gold. But somehow the overall image was incomplete. Then, as I stared at each volume in the series, I experienced an ah-ha moment. What was missing was the lovely gold framing I had had Yasamine design for me. It is based on Hawaiian heirloom jewelry, and features a hibiscus flower in each corner! After a wonderful feeling of accomplishment, I remembered there might be events for which a larger poster [22 x 36 inches] might be appropriate. So, I increased  the size of my images and text and added book reviews!     

I had planned to unveil my new look at the Tucson Sisters in Crime Booth at the Tucson Festival of Books. I envisioned the larger poster mounted on a grid at the back of the tent, with the smaller one being positioned on the top tier of my acrylic stand, with the series' books framing it. To emphasize the Island theme, I was going to complete my new tablescape with a few battery-operated lights, shell leis, and a gold palm tree! Unfortunately, due to the cancellation by leading authors facing travel challenges caused by the Coronavirus, the Festival was cancelled…