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How do I register?

You can register or see more details about the conference HERE.

Will the annual conference be in the Spring or the Fall from now on?

Each year the SCWA Board and the committee on Education & Events plans programming to meet the expressed learning needs of the membership. In 2019, we offered a smaller Fall event (the Retreat at Beaufort) and are offering a big event in 2020 in the Spring Conference. Future planning will always be responsive to the interests of membership. Planning for 2021 is underway and your input matters. Please voice your ideas, thoughts, concerns, and needs using one of our social channels and by participating in surveys sent regularly through The Quill emails.

Will there be registration on Saturday morning?

Yes, we will have a manned registration desk on Saturday morning beginning at 8 a.m.

What if workshops sell out?

The lowest capacity room we have is 35 people, the maximum capacity room is 180. We will assign rooms based on expected attendance as predicted by a survey sent to registered attendees ahead of time. It’s not a firm registration for the session, but a chance for us to gauge space needed. We do not expect any one session to have a higher capacity than the space will allow. In addition, attendees can vote on the “Best of Saturday” session and have it reprised on Sunday so if they missed it Saturday, they can catch it when it repeats.

How long are critique sessions?

Each writer meets for 20 minutes with the assigned critique provider. Work submitted ahead of time means the critique provider will have reviewed the material and provided written notes in addition to the 20 minute chat.

Can I choose who I want to provide the critique?

We have assembled a highly qualified cadre of critique providers. Assignments will be made based on the type of work submitted, matching the writer with the best possible fit for feedback.

What will happen if COVID-19 (Coronavirus) makes it unsafe to attend?

The SCWA Board is closely monitoring the situation and cares deeply about the well-being of its members and conference faculty. We will proceed with planning while working with our venue coordinators and other partners on conducting a safe conference. We are also developing contingency plans and will respect the guidance of government health officials. SCWA’s Board commits to act responsibly and keep everyone informed.

When will the last date be to register?

You are encouraged to register as soon as possible to save a place before the conference is full. Registration will remain open until the start of the conference, however, a space is not guaranteed.

Am I able to order special dietary food?

Please identify your dietary requirements by 4/15 and we will do our best to accommodate all needs by working with the caterers.

Is there free parking at the Convention Center?

The Convention has some free parking on a first come-first served basis

https://www.columbiaconventioncenter.com/parking-directions

I am an author. Can I bring and sell my books?

Authors who purchase full registration are eligible for space to sell their books. You should indicate on your registration that you wish to exhibit. Exhibitor tables will be available for attendees to peruse all day Saturday. Sales are fully processed by individual authors. The conference team will provide volunteer supervision to ensure the security of tables and marketing materials during workshops should authors step away to attend sessions.

I am traveling with a friend or spouse; are there events s/he can attend?

Friday evening’s welcome reception and Open Mic, and Saturday’s morning yoga and evening birthday party at Siebels House are all available for companions and friends. Registered attendees receive tickets for complementary beverages, but a cash bar exists for both evenings. Registered attendees can attend Saturday’s party for free but should purchase tickets for companions and guests.

Is my registration fee refundable if I decide to cancel?

Registration fees are non-refundable. 

Will there be agents and publishers in attendance?

Yes, we have invited agents to participate as panelists and critique reviewers. We have publishers attending as panelists, critique reviewers, and exhibitors.

I am not a published author. Should I attend?

Yes! The workshops and panels are built to help writers of all experience and abilities learn about the industry, the craft, and the opportunities for a writing life in South Carolina.

Register Now!