Are You Going to Conversations & Connections?
Yes! We are less than one week away from Barrelhouse magazine’s Conversations and Connections! While I’m not able to attend this spring, I’m planning to attend in the fall (fingers crossed). For those of you who find AWP intimidating, overwhelming, and/or too damn expensive, I would highly recommend checking out Conversations and Connections. It's a bi-annual, one-day writing conference that brings writers, editors, and publishers together. Barrelhouse has been hosting it in Arlington, VA during the spring for over ten years, and has been hosting it in Pittsburgh, PA during the fall for the past five years.
The conference exudes a laid-back and collaborative atmosphere, making it an ideal entry point for first-time conference-goers or for those who prefer a chill conference experience. Conversations and Connections is far less chaotic than AWP, and way more intimate. You'll definitely have a greater chance of getting one-on-one time with publishers and writers.
Barrelhouse runs a tight ship. And it’s a ship that gives you a whole lot of bang for your buck. The day's schedule starts with a welcome session, in which attendees are given the rundown about what they can expect throughout the day. After this there are several craft workshops and panels you can choose to attend—you can go to three. Then, heading into the afternoon there is a keynote discussion and speed dating sessions with editors from local publications.
As someone who has been on both sides of the speed dating table, I can honestly say that it’s a great experience. Whether you are pitching a short story, an essay collection, or a chapbook, the speeding dating sessions are an excellent way for you to practice pitching your work and a chance to get feedback from an editor. You’ll want to bring the first page (or two) of your work in progress for the session(s). The editors will read it, ask questions, and offer insight(s) into how you can improve your work (or your pitch). In some cases, you might even be encouraged to submit your work to the editor’s publication!
The best part about Conversations and Connections is that it attracts and promotes local writers and publishers. Chances are the people you’re talking to will be within an hour’s driving distance from you. It’s a great way to get more involved in your local literary community and learn about what your fellow writers are doing and what publishers are looking for. So whether you’re a writer or publisher, new to writing, or a pro, definitely check it out! You'll get to hang out and meet a bunch of genuine people, get some complimentary swag, and (oh yeah!) drink some boxed wine—if that’s your thing—during the Happy Hour!
