About this Event
Opelika Book Festival Writing Workshops
Jump into the world of storytelling with our Opelika Book Festival Writing Workshops! These in-person sessions are perfect for anyone looking to sharpen their writing skills, share ideas, and have fun. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned writer, come and connect with fellow book lovers and creative minds. Don't miss this chance to boost your creativity and bring your stories to life! Your $35 ticket includes a full day of workshops, breakfast, snacks, and lunch.
Agenda
đź•‘: 08:00 AM - 08:45 AM
Arrival, Check-in, and Breakfast
đź•‘: 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Marketing & Social Strategy: Platforms and Online Presence for Writers
Host: Sarah Penner
Info: Content and platform strategies to maximize your writing career.
đź•‘: 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
It's Not Just You: Networking for Authors Who'd Rather Be Writing
Info: If the word networking makes you want to hide behind your notebook, this panel is for you. Whether you’re publishing your first piece or your tenth book, connecting with others is part of the writing life. Our panelists will share approachable, low-pressure ways to meet people, start conversations, and follow up, without feeling salesy or fake. Expect honest advice, practical takeaways, and reassurance that even successful authors once felt awkward, too.
đź•‘: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Gone digital! Tech Tools for Landing a Literary Agent
Host: Sarah Penner
Info: A can’t-miss tech walkthrough for aspiring authors.
đź•‘: 12:30 PM - 01:00 PM
Lunch Break!
đź•‘: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Yes, We Love Books...But It’s Complicated: Indie Bookstores & Authors
Info: Getting your book into an indie bookstore can be exciting—and also confusing. In this lively conversation, booksellers share what authors should know before reaching out: how buying decisions are made, what actually sells in-store, and why “being on the shelf” doesn’t always equal big sales. Expect practical advice, gentle myth-busting, and insider tips on when bookstores are the right fit, and when other paths might serve you better.
đź•‘: 02:15 PM - 03:15 PM
TBA
đź•‘: 03:30 PM - 04:00 PM
Final Chapter: Wrap-Up, Takeaways, and Making Connections
Info: We’ll close out the writing workshops by pulling the big ideas together, sharing a few final insights from the day, and giving you time to connect with fellow writers, panelists, and presenters. This relaxed final session is your chance to ask last-minute questions, swap contact info, and continue conversations sparked during the workshops. Whether you’re heading home with new strategies, new confidence, or new writing friends, this is where we turn inspiration into next steps.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Opelika Public Library, 1100 Glenn Street, Opelika, United States
USD 39.19






