First: Congratulations! 

You’ve booked a signing! Now what, right? You know the obvious things to bring: books. But how many? And what the hell else?!

I Gotcha.

Let’s start with that obvious one & work our way down.

1. Books. Depending on the venue, between 20-50 is a safe number. However, best practice is to have more in the car for just in case.
2. Pen. I know, duh, right? You’d be surprised how many of us forget the damn pen. Have a few, and make sure they’re not “runners”
3. Tablecloth. Your venue may supply one, but never assume.
4. Table & Chair. And, if it’s an outdoor event, a pop-up style canopy! Check with your venue to see if they’ll be providing these. If not, bring your own. Average is anywhere from a four foot to six-foot table. Author spaces (at multi-vendor events) are either 8 x 10 feet or 10 x 10
5. A sturdy utility cart with wheels to transport your stuff. Believe me, you don’t want to lug boxes.
6. Some type of e-commerce tool (like a Square card reader) for credit card purchases. Consider offering PayPal and/or Venmo options, too.
7. Change. Dollar bills, fives, and tens. I  usually price my books in even increments ($10, $15) with the sales tax built in to avoid dealing with coins.
8. Price labels (or a sign) & bags displaying book price (s) & if you accept credit cards. Don’t forget bags for your customers! *You REALLY want to be able to accept credit cards, so get that card reader!
9. Bookstands (frame/plate holders work well)
10. Banner/Signage. You need something eye-catching that announces who you are and what you’re selling!
11. Business cards. Tell em where to find you, especially if they’re not buying today.
12. Freebies. Think: bookmarks, pens, magnets, or anything branded with your logo/book.
13. Candy or chocolates. Nothing stops em like a treat.
14. A bowl for those chocolates/candies.
15. Tape. Just because you never know
16. Scissors. See 12
17. A snack & beverage. Depending on the duration of your event. Only on occassion do your hosts think of these things.
18. Your elevator pitch. Be ready to talk about your book. Practice it. Don’t give the whole synopsis, give the back cover blurb. 
19. A smile and great attitude. I’m not being snarky here, this is a must. Be approachable. Be friendly. Be engaged. Stand up for longer chats, keep your phone checking at a minimum, and make eye contact.
20. Have a “catch phrase” to reel them in. (But don’t be obnoxious with it.) Asking what types of books they like to read is a great ice breaker.

There you have it!

You’ll fine-tune your own list as you go along, but these are your basic, get you through the day items. Have any questions? Drop em in the comments! Did I forget anything?! LMK below!