INVITATION FROM MARTI PIEPER

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Dear Writer WannaBe,

I know you’re out there. And today, I’m thinking of you.

You’ve slogged it out alone for so long. You sit at your computer and dream of creating a masterpiece (okay, several). And you know God wants to use your words.

Maybe you’ve written a novel or a chunk of a nonfiction book. Perhaps poetry bubbles from your pen like foam off an overfilled glass of Coke. Are you working on a screenplay? Or do you prefer to tackle shorter pieces like devotionals, greeting cards, or Bible studies instead?

But, yes, my friend, you have a problem. You don’t know how to get your work out there, do you? These days, you hear so much about self-publishing. What’s up with that? And then there’s the whole “agent” thing. Who needs one, and why? 

I understand. You'd love to meet some editors in person, to find out firsthand what they need and want. You know you should keep improving your craft, but when will you find the time, and where will you find a teacher? Could you take the chance to have a professional evaluate your writing and give you some tips to make it shine? 

Of course it sounds scary—but imagine the possibilities. After all, Mom’s opinion can only take you so far. 

You're right. Those are some deep needs and extreme expectations. But did you know, my WannaBe friend, that you can find hope, help, and encouragement at a writers' conference? Please take time to consider attending the 25^th annual Florida Christian Writers Conference (FCWC), March 1-4, 2012.

Allow me to share some reasons this conference could meet your needs (and a few of your wants as well):

• Superb Speakers: Best-selling author and collaborator Cec Murpheyy (Gifted Hands, 90 Minutes in Heaven) will keynote this year’s conference. 
• Terrific Teachers: The FCWC offers continuing seminars (including fiction and nonfiction mentoring clinics) as well as individual workshops, all taught by industry professionals. These people know their stuff and share it, too. 
• Amazing Appointments: Dedicated time with your favorite author, editor, or agent to discuss you, your work, or the sad state of the economy (Okay, I was kidding about the last part—but it’s your fifteen minutes).
• Fantastic Friendships: You'll love spending time with other WannaBes. You speak the same language, so make sure you stop talking long enough to improve your writing.
• Stellar Setting: Lake Yale Baptist Conference Center in Leesburg provides a tranquil, beautiful setting. And the meals rival Rachael Ray’s (or your mom’s).

Don’t have the money? Let’s talk about that. If you or your child wanted to play the piano, wouldn't you do your best to find the funds for lessons? And then there’s your pet. When Scruffy needs something, you make sure she has it. Right?

You invest in what you value. Isn't it time to put your money where your words are?

By the way, the FCWC offers a unique opportunity for teen Writer WannaBes (I know you’re out there): hours of hands-on Teen Track training with fantasy author and teacher extraordinaire Bryan Davis at a discount price. Teens, seniors, or in-betweens can register, check on scholarships, and discover many other details at the conference website. 

Do the research. Pray about it. Send me questions.(martipieper@gmail.com)But consider this my personal invitation to shed some Florida sunlight on your writing. I'd love to have you join me at the FCWC.

Your friend and fellow Writer WannaBe,

Marti 

P.S. Read descriptions of the workshops I'll teach at the conference here. Have you attended the FCWC or another writers’ conference? Please add to my letter via your comments!