Q. What is the DFW Writers’ Conference?
A. It’s a great way for writers, at all stages of their careers, to hone their craft, network with fellow writers, and meet literary agents, published authors, and other industry professionals such as editors.
Q. Who sponsors the DFW Writers’ Conference?
A. The conference is hosted by the DFW Writers’ Workshop. This group has 33 years of experience in helping writers succeed. Its members have written more than 300 traditionally published books. The Workshop meets every Wednesday night at 7 p.m. in Euless, Texas, in the heart of the DFW Metroplex.
Q. What does my registration fee cover?
A. The fee entitles you to:
- Entrance into the conference
- A chance to make an appointment with an agent to discuss your novel, or nonfiction book proposal (available on a first-come, first-served basis)
- Quality lunches on Saturday and Sunday
- Access to 40-plus classes on the art and business of writing
- Networking opportunities with fellow authors and the agents
Q. Are there any other costs?
A. Our goal is to provide an exceptional value for your registration dollars. Whereas other conferences might charge you, we include at no additional fee:
- Two lunches; one on Saturday, one on Sunday
- Free parking (between $7 – $10 per day elsewhere)
- Agent appointments (many conferences charge $50)
- Access to all workshops and classes (a $25 to $50 extra fee, depending on the conference)
We do recommend you bring some cash. Both the vendors and many of the guest speakers will have services, books, etc. to sell. Not all of them will accept credit cards.
Q. Do I get any special discounts on lodging or travel?
A. If you wish to stay overnight on site (meaning you don’t have to drive anywhere during the conference), we have a special rate of $79 per room per night. See details here: DFWcon Lodging.
If you plan to travel by air or rent a car in DFW, we have negotiated a 5% discount on American Airlines and special rates with Avis Rental Car. See details here: DFWcon Travel Discounts.
Q. Do I need to have a completed novel if I intend to schedule a session with an agent or editor?
A. Generally speaking, yes. Many agents consider it amateurish to pitch an incomplete novel. For nonfiction, a completed manuscript is not necessary, but you must have your platform and proposal ready.
Q. I don’t want an appointment with an agent or editor. Do I need to have a completed novel to attend the conference?
A. No. The conference offers many classes and workshops designed to help all writers. Plus, it’s a great chance to network with published authors and learn about the industry.
Q. Are there any age limits?
A. Registration is open to anyone 16-years and older. We are very sorry but we are unable to accommodate younger authors due to some of the subject matter that may be brought up in some classes.
Q. If I register, then discover I can’t attend the conference, what is your refund policy?
A. No refunds are available. If you provide notice by February 15, 2011 to the Conference Director, your registration will be transferred to the 2012 DFW Writers’ Conference. Transfers are good for one year only. If you are unable to attend the 2012 conference, you understand that you forfeit the registration fee.
Q. Who teaches your classes and workshops?
A. All of the classes are taught by industry professionals, many of whom have years of experience in their subject matter. They are published authors, literary agents, publicists, editors, or specialists in their field, such as criminology, medicine, or law.
Q. How do I register?
A. Please fill out our Registration Form. Thank you!