Its hard to believe that this time last week I was in NYC attending BEA (Book Expo America).
This was my third time attending and for some reason I was a little more confident then I was the previous two times I went. But its still a very overwhelming experience.
This year BEA switched up the dates for the show and I have to say that it actually worked to my advantage because I took the train down on Memorial Day weekend. I arrived Sunday evening and that allowed me three days to do some stuff that I wanted to do in NYC such as some sight seeing and shopping. It was nice because I didn’t real rushed or like I was missing anything.
I decided to pick up my badge on the day of Book Blogger Con and it was such an easy process. Not much of a wait in line and everyone was so nice and friendly during the process.
I just have to say that I think they always hire the nicest and friendliest people.
The night before BEA was to open to us I was super excited and nervous. This year I decided to forgo the author breakfasts for both the adult and children just because I wanted to experience being on the floor as the doors open.
From previous years I was told that their was alot of pushing and shoving to get in and I have to say that I never witnessed that and it was so much fun being in amongst everyone. It was a great feel and great energy in the crowd.
I have to say that checking my suitcase in for a small fee was so worth it. Since I live in Canada shipping books back is very expensive. I learned from my second year going not to ship from Javitis.
This year I have to say I did see alot of difference that happened. The autographing section seemed to be a little bit more organized and I think that its a learning experience and I am sure next year will be even better. The only thing I have to say is the in-booth signings need a little work because it was hard to figure out who you were going to get in line for and it was also a little hard to get down the aisles because of the line.
This year I decided to take advantage of using my online agenda a little bit more then in previous years just because its so easy to lose your millions of papers that you print before going. So that it was very handy and I was able to see what was going on when.
I always find it breath taking to see the exhibit floor from upstairs. Its so huge and its so nice to see so many exhibitors show casing their books. The layout is always fantastic although this year they really spaced out the big publishing houses.
I think the only suggestion I have would be if they could provide more seating in a corner somewhere so that you can take a few minutes to rest without having to sit on the floor. Several times I had to find a corner to sit in because I was exhausted.
Can I just say thank god for shuttle buses…they were a blessing at the end of the day for me. I would walk to Javitis in the morning to wake up but come the end of the day you need a lift back to your hotel. Isn’t that right bloggers?
Not sure if you have thought of this but I think it would be awesome if you made up little bags for the attendees. A cheap little BEA tote bag, plus the books that you pick up with all the info about BEA and who is there etc.
Over all I have to say that I had a fantastic time at BEA and I can’t wait to go again. Thank you to BEA for hosting this fantastic event and for allowing me to be part of it for my third year. Looking forward to seeing you all in 2014, 2015 and perhaps 2016 in Chicago.
copyright 2010, Cindy (Cindy’s Love Of Books)
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