Well, had a nice day at the Mid-Maryland Celtic Festival in Mount Airy in June. The folks from the St. Andrews Society were great hosts, very helpful and cooperative. Met lots of fine and interesting people. Many stopped by the author's tent to chat, ask questions, and some even bought a book. Sharing the tent with other authors made for an interesting day. Learned some by watching their approach to bookselling. I felt that my approach was more successful. Most of the others sat behind their desks and waited for visitors to approach. I stood outside the tent inviting people to view my display and engage them in conversation. I believe I sold more books than the others. if not, I know I met more people and increased my network of followers of the Celtic festival circuit.
There was one incident that I regret. A kilted father and son engaged me with some banter. The son challenged some of my historical notations. No problem, I enjoy dialog about things that are matters of opinion. I was happy when they wanted to buy a book. They were short of cash, (I would wager they spent a lot of it on the pints they carried). And I had a problem getting to the WIFI at the site to be able to take their credit card on my tablet. The son, a self-proclaimed IT expert tried but failed to help me get online. A bit embarrassed and frustrated at my failure to make the sale, I offered to sign a book for them on credit, gave them my address, and asked them to send me a check at their convenience. They agreed but did not offer their contact information, and I failed to ask for it. Guess I should know better than to fully trust men in kilts with pints in their hands. Needless to say (but I'll say anyway), to date, no check. They stiffed me!
Cost of doing business and being too trusting I suppose. I hope they enjoy the book enough to send a check when they finish reading it.
Oh well, on to the next venue, Timonium in November, the Maryland Irish Festival at the fairgrounds. Perhaps they'll stop by and settle up.
