Conference Preparation:

  • Pack to dress comfortably. This is a casual conference.
  • Dress in layers because the temperature can vary quite a bit both inside and outside the conference.
  • Bring a rain jacket, binoculars, and light gloves.
  • Bring your camera.
  • Definitely bring comfortable shoes with which you can walk on the beach.
  • Bring a water bottle. There will be water available, but having your own water bottle helps the environment and keeps you aware of hydration.
  • Read through the conference program before the conference starts so that you know what your options are. Think about your goals in attending.
  • Also, try to save a little room in your suitcase so that you can buy books.
  • If you aren’t bringing a computer with you, remember to bring a pad of paper and a writing utensil so that you can take notes during a session.

While You’re There:

  • Don’t be shy. Sit down at a table where you don’t know anyone and introduce yourself. Everyone is at the conference to learn!  Make connections. Try to talk to new people as much as possible—including chatting with new people during breaks and finding people to eat lunch and dinner with, if at all possible.
  • Make sure that you leave room in your schedule for the evening readings. This is the best chance you have to hear the faculty read from their own work, and it will give you insight into what they’ve been teaching and discussing in their workshops.
  • Buy books by the conference faculty during the conference or at evening readings and get them signed. It’s a wonderful way to remember your experience and gain post-conference insights into literary styles, “travel” to new places and read new fabulous novels, poetry collections, and nonfiction essays.
  • Ask questions that pertain to the subject matter at hand, and remember to speak up so everyone in the room can hear.
  • Take lots of notes. You think you’ll remember, but the days are so full that it’s hard to sort out all the information once you get home.
  • Don’t forget that other participants want an opportunity to talk with the members of the faculty. Please don’t monopolize the discussion.
  • Gather contact information from other participants. This is a great conference to expand your literary community. It’s fun to find people to stay in touch with throughout the year.
  • Follow the conference hashtag on Twitter, or at the very least follow the Kachemak Bay Writers’ Conference on Facebook and @KachemakWriters on Twitter. This is a good way to stay in touch throughout the year!
  • Remember to drink water.
  • Get enough rest so that you can be bright-eyed for the daily workshops and panels.
  • HAVE FUN!  Enjoy, laugh and learn!

After Conference:

  • Before you leave, please complete the conference feedback form! We use your suggestions to improve the conference each year.
  • Follow up with people with whom you’ve connected.
  • Read the books you’ve purchased and consider revisiting your notes.
  • Write. Seriously, folks, just make time in your schedule to write. Even fifteen minutes each day can add up to a lot of material.