The Indie Romance Convention is for all indie, hybrid, and small press romance authors with books published in any of the romance subgenres—from Christian, young adult (YA), new adult (NA), paranormal, sci-fi, western, mystery and fantasy to hardcore BDSM and all those in between. Sorry, no one under 18 will be admitted. This is a convention for adults only.
Our convention is different from others. We offer author workshops for craft and marketing, but we also offer reader workshops and panels to help them learn about the publishing industry. This industry is changing at a rapid pace. In order to keep up with this ever-changing world, workshops and panels are offered during IRC to help both authors and readers keep on top of the latest in the industry.
Our convention is hosted the second weekend of October of each year. If you're an author and would like to know more about 2017 workshops and panels please contact us.
Our convention is hosted the second weekend of October of each year. If you're an author and would like to know more about 2017 workshops and panels please contact us.
Other emails
Directors email: indieromanceconvention@gmail.com
General FAQ
What is IRC?
The Indie Romance Convention (IRC) is a convention for authors and readers, not just a book signing event. IRC is a once-a-year event where indie, hybrid, and small press authors and readers can learn more about writing and the publishing industry and have fun while doing so. We offer workshops and panels for authors to learn their craft and readers to learn how to do more for their favorite authors. Each year we try to expand, adding more workshops and panels for editors, cover artists, formatters, etc.
The Indie Romance Convention (IRC) is a convention for authors and readers, not just a book signing event. IRC is a once-a-year event where indie, hybrid, and small press authors and readers can learn more about writing and the publishing industry and have fun while doing so. We offer workshops and panels for authors to learn their craft and readers to learn how to do more for their favorite authors. Each year we try to expand, adding more workshops and panels for editors, cover artists, formatters, etc.
How does your schedule work?
IRC offers all kinds of workshops and panels; we don’t just cater to the reader or author. We know everyone in the indie industry—whether they are readers, writers, or bloggers—has a need to learn more about their passion and craft. Some sessions will be suited for all attendees, meaning everyone can attend those workshops and panels. There will be some only for authors and aspiring authors. Others will be just for bloggers or editors. A few will be just for readers. Make sure you check the workshop or panel to see which category it is open to.
I have a food allergy do you provide special food?
No, we do not provide any special foods. We try to take note of attendees with gluten-free and nuts but anyone attending with allergies please be warned to ask before you accept any food at the convention.
Are there any age restrictions for the convention?
No one under 18 will be admitted.
What if I have to cancel my registration?
There are no refunds; all sales are final. You are more than welcome to find a replacement for your ticket, but it’s your responsibility to let us know who your replacement is.
Is there a shuttle provided from the airport?
No, to help keep costs down, it’s your responsibility to get yourself to the convention. You can join our Facebook group and find someone to share a ride or rent a car with, so you can keep down your costs. A1 City Cab Contact them at (615) 810-1000 or a1citytaxi@gmail.com
Are there fees associated with book signings, autographs, and/or picture taking?
Not for convention attendees.
Do any of the events require a special wardrobe such as a gown or an after-five dress?
We never require anyone to wear a special wardrobe. There are some events where those who want to dress up can, but it’s never required.
Is lodging provided?
Although IRC does not provide lodging for readers, attending authors, or other guests, our directors work closely with the area hotels to negotiate special pricing for on-site or nearby lodging for those who will attend the convention. Please review our site for upcoming details.
Is there a limit on how many tickets you can buy?
No, you can buy as many tickets as you want but remember they are non-refundable.
Is there a limit on how many tickets you can buy?
No, you can buy as many tickets as you want but remember they are non-refundable.
FAQ for Readers
What do you offer to the readers?
There are special workshops and panels to give readers a look into the indie publishing industry. We also host special reader and author events as well as a book signing. We offer the chance for readers to meet and get to know some of their favorite authors.
Can I bring my already purchased books to the book signing?
You are allowed to bring two books for the authors to sign. Many authors will have books available to purchase at the signing as well. Make sure to bring a tote or bag, so you can carry all your goodies.
Will I be able to use my credit cards?
We try to book hotels that offer Internet, so our authors can use it for credit cards, but we suggest attendees bring cash because unforeseen can happen and Internet or phone services can go down.
FAQ for Authors
I am an attending author. Can my assistants attend the convention free?
No, if they want to be included in the meals and participate in the panels and workshops, they must pay the registration fee. Without paying the full convention registration, they may attend only the book signing in the role of your assistant.
I am an author who publishes indie and traditional books. Can I still sign up to be a featured author?
Yes, you may. Hybrid and small press authors may register and attend the book signing as attending authors. Featured and attending authors are allowed to bring all of their works to the book signing.
What are attending authors?
These are the authors who will have a table at the book signing during the convention. They will also be the authors hosting the workshops and panels that year.
I am an unpublished author but would like to attend the author panels and a workshop. Is there a way I can do that?
Yes, you can join the convention as an aspiring author and get access to the author panels and workshops. To sign up, just email Laurie at indieromanceconvention@gmail.com. If you’re already an author and just want to join the author panels and workshops and not participate in the book signing, you're also more than welcome to join us under the aspiring author umbrella.
How do I get on a panel or workshop?
Workshops and panels are created by IRC directors, but an attending author can volunteer on an already scheduled panel or submit a workshop or panel idea for approval.
I am an attending author. Can I host more than one panel and workshop?
No, you only get to host one.
I am an attending author flying in for the convention. Can I send my books and swag in advance?
Yes, please email Laurie at indieromanceconvention@gmail.com, and she’ll give you an address to send your books and swag to. Your items will be brought to the hotel for you to pick up during registration or between workshops.
Will there be opportunities to mingle with attending authors?
Yes, during the dinners, book signing, and special reader and author events.
Not only am I an author, but I am also a designer or editor or any other author service is it possible to be listed as both?
Yes, just email us at indieromanceconvention@gmail.com to let us know
Not only am I an author, but I am also a designer or editor or any other author service is it possible to be listed as both?
Yes, just email us at indieromanceconvention@gmail.com to let us know
FAQ for Others
Can cover models attend?
Yes, cover models are a part of what makes the publishing industry grand and are welcome to come. It makes for a perfect networking opportunity. Like attending authors, readers, bloggers, editors, etc., cover models will be required to pay their own airfare, room, and convention fees.
I would like to be an attending author. Do I get a cheaper rate?
No, to keep our fees low, everyone pays the same registration fee.
