Geek Syndicate
“secret weapons” – various props including a modelled Clockwork heart and a plush toy version of one of the main characters from Magic of Myths created by the talented Sara Dunkerton – work their charm.
SDCC Exhibitor Tip SDCC Exhibitor Tip
People at American cons LOVE badges (or “buttons”, as they’re called here). Even more so when they’re free. For most of the day, our Clockwork Watch badges were constantly the subject of one question: “are these free?” And when we reply that they’re not, the response was usually a disappointed frown. One guy even cack-handedly stole a badge from our table after I explicitly told him he had to pay. So, if you can afford to get some made - do so.
Artwork is also a big draw, as Jennie Gyllblad’s beautiful watercolours on Clockwork Watch and Sergio Calvet’s dynamic style on Magic of Myths gain plenty of admiring comments even when they don’t lead to sales. And with the large number of cosplayers present, we take any opportunity to grab passers-by for a photo.
That said, wearing tweed meant we were occasionally pulled aside for a few snaps, which was a pleasant surprise. We’re also approached by one gentleman who wants to interview us for his documentary on black creators at Comic-Con. Very cool.
Cosplay is a big part of SDCC. However, you’ll not find many exhibitors dressing up. Naturally, this is partly because standing behind a table trying to sell for ten hours straight is gruelling enough, but we found that if you dress a bit differently (preferably in theme with what you’re selling) you’re far more likely to grab the attention of potential customers. At the very least, you’ll be memorable. Standing out from the crowd on a personal level is the perfect way to draw someone into taking a look at your books.
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