Writing Workshops
& Author Panel
Writing Workshops & Author Panel
Date: Friday, October 16th, 2026
Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Location: The Denny Sanford Convention Center, Meeting Room #6
10:00am - 10:45am
Social Media Marketing: How to Conquer the Beast (and stay sane) - D.E. Carlson
Description coming soon!
11:00am - 11:45am
Beyond Words: How a Non-Speaking Artist Illustrates Books - Corey & Andrea Landreth
In this workshop, Corey and Andrea share the story behind how Trent (Drawings by Trent), a non-speaking autistic artist, became the illustrator of three books.
They will talk about Trent’s communication skills, how he shows preferences, makes choices, and lets people know what is or is not working for him. They will also walk through the different processes they used to support Trent as each book was being created.
Each book took a different approach, but each process was shaped around what seemed to fit Trent best at the time and allowed his artwork to be a essential part of the finished project.
Participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Trent’s books came together and be encouraged to rethink assumptions about communication, creativity, and what people with differences are able to contribute.
BREAK FOR LUNCH
Food options listed below.
1:00pm - 1:45pm
The Indie-Press Blueprint - Heidi Herman
This workshop guides authors with completed manuscripts through the essential steps of indie publishing, from imprint setup to book marketing.
This session offers practical information and actionable tools for those ready to navigate the publishing process independently.
Part I: The Imprint covers the legal setup and branding elements of an imprint.
Part II: Book Releases walks through the elements required to release a book, including discussion of ISBNs, Library of Congress, copyright, editing, book covers, formatting, proofreading, and distribution.
Part III: Marketing gives attendees the tools for bookstore sales, library outreach, and global retail promotion.
Handouts include samples of sell sheets and publication slips, email pitch scripts to media/podcasters, press releases, and sample ads. After this class, attendees will have the tools to establish their own imprint and start on a publishing journey.
2:00pm - 2:45pm
Coming to you Live! - Millie Copper
Many authors avoid live events, but they can be one of the most effective ways to grow your audience and sell books. This workshop explores why in-person events like comic cons, signings, and local fairs deserve a place in your business, and how to approach them with confidence.
You will learn practical ways to attract attention, start conversations, and turn casual browsers into readers without feeling pushy or overwhelmed.
3:00pm - 4:00pm
Author Panel - Self-Editing: Expert Advice on Editing Your Own Manuscript - Pegg Thomas, Joel Ribbey (from J.E. Ribbey), and Lisa Fahey
Learn the intricacies of self-editing, taught to you by an editor, publisher, and author who bring their expertise to the table.
This session will introduce each speaker and allow them to share their wisdom in what to keep, what to throw, and what they've found as best practices. Bring your questions as there will be time for Q&A.
TICKETS
Due to limited space, we are unable to open the Writing Workshops
to children under 10 (nursing infants allowed.) No refunds after September 1st.
Writing Workshop - Child's Ticket (ages 10-17)
1 ticket per person. Ticket allows access to the entire day of workshops.
$5
Thank you for your purchase!
Writing Workshop - Adult Ticket (ages 18+)
1 ticket per person. Ticket allows access to the entire day of workshops.
$10
Thank you for your purchase!
NEARBY FOOD OPTIONS
Falling Water Grille - https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/fsdsi-sheraton-sioux-f...
Restaurant in the Sheraton Hotel (connected to The Denny Sanford Center via hallway/concourse on the N. end.) Offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Boston's Restaurant & Sports Bar - https://www.bostons.com/
0.3 miles
Pizza eatery with handcrafted pizza dough, pasta, salads, and burgers.
Casa Del Ray - https://casadelrey.com/
0.4 miles
For over four decades, Casa del Rey has been Sioux Falls' go-to for authentic Mexican flavors.
Crooked Pint - https://www.crookedpint.com/locations/sioux-falls/
0.5 miles
At Crooked Pint, you'll find pub favorites, delicious juicy lucys, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Crack'd Pot Restaurant & Bakery - https://www.crackdpot1974.com/
1.3 miles
Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and baked goods in Sioux Falls since 1974.