Toronto ComiCon 2013

In early 2013, I was pleasantly surprised when I found out that Fan Expo Canada would be providing table space for me at this year's Toronto ComiCon. This would be my first Con attendance as a published author, and I was thrilled about taking part--although there was a bit of trepidation, considering the event was primarily comic and Sci-Fi oriented. But I was glad to see that a handful of other local authors would be in attendance, as well as a bit of horror sprinkled (splattered?) throughout the weekend.

The crowds were pretty good over the course of the two-day event; turns out day one was completely sold out, a first for this convention! Between chatting with vampire fans, and snapping the odd pic whenever a cool costume caught my eye, the hours flew by--I only wish I had taken the time to snap more photographs. At last year's Fan Expo in Toronto, when I volunteered for the Horror Writers Association, I must have taken dozens of photos. This year, since I was tied to my table, must be the first Con I attended where I didn't spend any money--except on coffee, of course. I think next time, I'll skip out for a short while so I can take a look at the vendors--and spend some money! One table that really caught my eye were the designs of artist Paul McCue--really cool stuff (check out his website, Modulicious).

I was positioned in a long row of tables at the back of Artist's Alley, surrounded by comic book writers and illustrators. To my left, Andrew and Conor--co-creators of Kill Shakespeare--hawked their wares, which included copies of the graphic novel, t-shirts and other memorabilia. These two are deft in the art of promotion, and I learned quite a bit just by sitting next to them. (The mandolin player who showed up on day two was a nice touch.) To my right, the amicable comic artist Mike Del Mundo sold some prints, did some custom sketches, and autographed whatever was asked of him. (He's an amazing artist, check out his website!)

What I enjoyed most over the course of the weekend was chatting with vampire fans--there were more in attendance than I expected! I sold some books, had many 'near sales', and make a few connections that could lead to future media interviews. Who knew that writing the book was the easy part? Now it's all about promotion, promotion, promotion.

Thanks to Todd, Lakyn, Mike, and all the others who stopped by my table--I had a great time chatting with you, and discussing your favourite vampires.

Up next, it's Fan Expo Vancouver. Looking forward to a nice working vacation on the west coast.

Here's a couple other costumes that caught my eye--great job, all.