Dear Friends,
The main Speak Up Conference begins as 6:00 p.m. on Thursday evening, June 27. However, for some of you who are able to arrive on Wednesday night or Thursday morning, there are several pre-conference options from which you can select additional learning opportunities. If you are arriving early, be sure to register for the optional lunch and/or dinner that will be available at The Prince Conference Center that day.
Here are your choices:
Noon, Thursday — Baked Potato Bar Lunch (Optional–register on the cart) Baked Idaho potatoes served with a variety of toppings; butter, sour cream, chopped bacon, grated cheddar, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese sauce, a mini salad bar, fruit salad and beverage.
1:00 – 5:00 p.m.: Writers’ Pre-Conference Options
(four-hour options for fiction and non-fiction workshops)
$75 – Fiction Mentoring Clinic – Dave Lambert
You’ve begun your novel, maybe completed it. You love it; your mom loves it, but so far no publisher has felt the same. In this session, we’ll examine the first chapter or two of your manuscript, looking for strengths to develop and weaknesses to correct. We’ll devote time to a detailed examination of the work of each participant, and the instructor will offer specific suggestions. We’ll also spend time on an overview of the rapidly changing world of publishing, and how those changes affect the path to publication for your book. Each participant must be willing to read, before the conference begins, the first ten pages of all the manuscripts. This is a great opportunity to learn from one of the best Christian fiction coaches in the country. Class limit: 8 students.
$75 – Non-fiction Book Proposal Clinic — Twila Belk
In this four-hour hands-on class, learn how to put together an excellent nonfiction book proposal from start to finish. We’ll discuss the key elements of a proposal, including the query letter, overview, chapter synopses, and sections about the market, competition, promotion, and author. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and receive the help you need. Bring your computer, what you have written so far on your proposal, and your desire to create a salable book proposal to this session. (When you register for this clinic, we will email additional information so you can come prepared.)
Speakers’ Pre-Conference Options
Videotaping & Critiquing of Speeches — Times will be assigned based on your arrival plans for specific appointments between 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
$35 — 5-minute video presentation with a one-to-one critique with a Speak Up staff member – 15 minute session.
You will leave with a DVD of your presentation, as well as specific verbal feedback that will help you move to the next level in your speaking. Your content can be whatever you choose. It can be a complete talk (such as a brief topical or devotional presentation), or a portion of a longer talk. After you finish your taping, you will watch your video with your Speak Up staffer. You will be given feedback on both content and delivery during your 15-minute appointment. (click for printable directions)
$75 — 15-minute video presentation with one-to-one critique with a Speak Up staff member – 30 minute time slot
You will leave with a DVD or a digital download of your presentation, as well as specific verbal feedback that will help you move to the next level in your speaking. Your 30-minute appointment will begin with looking over the answers to the questions below. Then you will be taped with your Speak Up staffer observing. If you choose to speak longer than 15-minutes, it will cut into your time of feedback, but that is your choice. Your content can be whatever you choose. It can be a complete talk, or a portion of a longer talk. You will be given feedback on both content and delivery during your 30-minute appointment. (click for printable directions)
Speakers’, Writers’, and Leaders’ Pre-Conference Option — Video Interview
(Participants can chose one speaking option and the Interview with Carol Kent option, if they want to select both.)
$150 — Video Interview with Carol Kent
Feature your ministry or newest book on your website or on YouTube by utilizing a digital download of a 5-minute interview with Carol. 5-minute video/15 minute session. This option involves a 15-minute time slot where you will have the opportunity to familiarize Carol with your ministry or book. Then, Carol will participate with you in an 5-minute interview style video that would be usable on your website, Facebook page, or on YouTube. You will be mailed a flash drive with your interview a few weeks after the conference. (click for printable directions)
Optional Light Dinner Buffet: A Taste of Italy (Optional – register on the cart) Grilled Italian chicken breast and pasta with Alfredo and Marinara sauces, served with steamed vegetable, garlic bread, fresh fruit and Caesar salad. Beverage included.