WRITE: Florida Christian Writers Conference 2013
God seems to weave themes throughout my writing life. The one for this season (and no doubt many more), seems to be relationships.
I spent the first almost-eight years of my freelance career as a solo act. I interacted with clients, editors, and publishers primarily by email. But I rarely took time to email another writer, much less connect in person.
Enter August, 2008 and a Cecil Murphey One-Day Writing Intensive. In addition to some great encouragement and life-changing instruction, the time spent there helped me recognize writing as my heart language. Who speaks it? Only other writers.
Today, I connect with these other writers in multiple ways, including my local (Orlando, Florida) chapter of Word Weavers International. But when someone who loves God and writing asks me questions like:
- How do I get started in writing?
- What publications accept work from freelancers?
- What techniques and tips will improve my work?
- What’s the best way to connect with an agent or editor?
- How do the changes in the publishing industry affect writers?
I have a ready answer: attend a Christian writers conference. One of the premier ones takes place almost in my backyard. The Florida Christian Writers Conference (FCWC) is held annually in Leesburg, Florida, about twenty minutes from my home.
Not all of you have the FCWC so close by. But all of you who write (or want to write) should consider coming. My friends Eva Marie Everson and Mark Hancock are new conference directors following the resignation of Billie Wilson, beloved founder and longtime director of this longtime event. They’ve already spent countless hours to take the conference to a new level of excellence.
This year’s FCWC, February 27-March 3, includes keynotes from top authors Alton Gansky, Rachel Hauck, Steven James, Sally Stuart, and Dan Walsh. Other offerings include a broad range of continuing classes and numerous á la carte workshops plus appointments with editors like Abingdon’s Ramona Richards and agents including Chip MacGregor and Tamela Hancock Murray.
I’ve taught at conferences across the country, but I’ve seen nothing to top this lineup. Bonuses include VIP Keynoters Scholarship Breakfasts (free if you register by December 24), a flash drive loaded with handouts from all the workshops (also free with early registration), a Saturday evening Awards Banquet, and more.
I can’t promote the conference without sharing my excitement over my role. I’ll represent Sisterhood (formerly SUSIE) magazine and meet with writers eager to submit their work. I’ll present workshops on three of my favorite topics (watch for more details next month). I’ll also have the privilege of serving as Conference Chaplain, a role I believe God has prepared me “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14).
The 2013 FCWC is a true bargain, presenting expanded value at a lower price. Concerned about the cost? This conference offers more for your money in every way imaginable. Multiple scholarships are available (the sooner you apply, the better). And relationships—genuine relationships with industry professionals, novices, and writers like you—will flourish all around.
Come to the FCWC. Stretch your abilities. Make your connections. And most of all, speak the language of your heart.
Hi Marti,
Thanks for this post. How very true the community that moves us forward is that of our heart language.
Exactly. I know that’s why you and I communicate so well. Blessings, my friend.
I am so indebted to the Florida Christian Writers Conference for so many things, but even better than finding a publisher and an agent at this conference, I found so many friends who speak my heart language. Marti, you are certainly one of themm. Clella
Ah, you would understand better than many people, Clella. Thanks for blessing so many with your words of wisdom and love.