Adventures in Pitching

Today was Pitch Day at the Pikes Peak Writers' Conference. A day full of nerves, worries, laughter, tears, and relief. It was also a day of bonding for the hopefuls. I did a lot of praying for those around me, as well as the agents, editors, and staff.

I started my day moderating a session on point of view. It was stuff I mostly already knew, but it was a good reminder. I had worked with the faculty person yesterday, so it was good to see and work with her again.

After that, I got to help at the pitch desk. I'd check folks in while someone else took them back to the room where the pitching took place. It was kind of like America Idol without the tone deaf weirdoes and golden tickets. I found myself encouraging those around me. Asking questions about their writing. Wishing them good luck. And let me tell you, that felt so odd to say! I'm more used to "Break a leg!"

At lunch, I ate with Michael Braff, an editor from Del Rey. He was AWESOME! He reminded me of a friend of mine, so I felt pretty at ease around him. And that last bit of discomfort was shoved aside by his personality. We clicked over Firefly, and I even got to hear a little on his perspective of the Disney takeover of LucasFilm. Intriguing guy! And I told him I was keeping the conversation light because...

...right after lunch, I pitched to him. Again, it was a great chat. I am most thankful he was my first pitch ever in life. He was gracious, kind, understanding...the list goes on. He even took my one sheet and a brochure I made for The Circeae Tales. And it ended on a positive note. If you get a chance to talk with him, I highly recommend it!

The rest of the afternoon passed in much the same manner. I did a second pitch with a gentleman from HarperCollins. I knew it was a long shot, so I was fairly relaxed. I know I came off not at all prepared, but that's okay. It was a totally different project in a different genre.

We had a long break prior to dinner. Everyone was off dressing up and fixing hair and makeup. I sat in a chair in the lobby and worked on my entry for the flash fiction contest. I had to leave the dinner early. As I write this, my eyes are closing. Two days of conference=sleepy Ashley.

Thanks for another great day, PPWC! You've got one more shot tomorrow!!