The moment
Allison's new book, Your Turn, was publishing September 8. She wanted it in as many hands as possible and wanted readers to feel the book, not just buy it. We set out to build 7 to 10 pre-sale events.
What I did
- Found hosts who already cared. Corporate offices, independent bookstores, a national nonprofit and private homes, each bringing their own people into the room.
- Designed every stop to be felt. Chapter-linked storytelling and formats built for each host: a "9 Lives" exercise, fireside chats and a mahjong social.
- Gave every host a plan. A Host Guide for each event covering run of show, logistics and invitations, plus a reusable template and a live master calendar.
- Sweated the details. Personal gifts for every host, a step and repeat, signage, a review booth and weekly recaps so Allison always knew where sales stood.
What changed
- The first stop in Alexandria sold 100 books, 4 times its 25-copy target.
- The Wonderland Books launch in Bethesda sold out with 175 books.
- A mahjong social sold out all 50 tickets and books.
- Extra hands at high-volume events drove nearly 100 additional sales.
- The tour grew from a regional plan into 13 stops from DC to Chicago to Portland.
Why it worked
Hosts were champions, not venues. Each one invited people who trusted them, so every room filled with guests who came ready to listen. Thanking hosts publicly and personally kept them invested well past their own event.