Authors Welcome: Submit Your Book
Welcome Local Authors to The Charmed Page!
Thank you for considering The Charmed Page in Lake Charles, LA, as a home for your book! Writing and publishing a book is an incredible accomplishment, and we’re thrilled to connect with local authors who are enriching the literary landscape of Southwest Louisiana.
As much as we’d love to support every author, our shelf space is limited, and we strive to curate a collection that best serves our customers while celebrating local talent. To ensure a fair and transparent process, we’ve outlined some criteria and opportunities for local authors below.
You must live within the following boundaries: north to Deridder, East to Iowa, West to the Texas border, and South to the Gulf.
Consignment Terms
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Authors earn 60% of the retail price for each copy sold.
- Through research, and speaking to other bookstore owners, we’ve found this is the industry standard.
- Sales Tax is covered by The Charmed Page; please consult a tax professional for your responsibilities
- Books must be provided directly by the author and will be sold on a consignment basis.
- The Charmed Page reserves the right to decline any book without explanation.
- Contracts are for 6 months. At the end of the six months, The Charmed Page will review sales.
How to Submit Your Book for Consignment
To have your book considered for consignment at The Charmed Page, please ensure it meets the following requirements:
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Book Format:
- The book must be professionally printed and bound
- Author and title on the spine is preferred, especially since not all our indie published books get a chance to be face out on the shelves (if customers can only see a blank spine or a staple, it’s highly unlikely that anyone will find your book).
- Covers should be of high quality (paperback, hardcover, or equivalent material) and include both the title and author name.
- Your book needs to be comparably priced to other titles of its size and genre. You also agree to have the same price listed in The Charmed Page as on other platforms or sell channels. Meaning the book is available for the same price no matter where it is sold.
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A 13-digit International Standard Book Number (ISBN) must be visible on the front or back cover.
The Charmed Page will review your submission and notify you if we decide to carry your book. Unfortunately, we cannot respond to every submission. If you don’t hear from us, it simply means that your book may not align with our current inventory needs.
Author Events and Opportunities
We believe in fostering a vibrant literary community and offer additional opportunities for local authors:
Monthly Local Author Faire
- Held once a month, often with a specific theme, usually on the 2nd Saturday of the month.
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Authors, not on consignment, can attend for $30. Authors are responsible for providing their own books and managing payments (all proceeds go to the author).
- Please email hello@charmedpagebooks.com to express your interest in attending.
- Authors who have their books on consignment with The Charmed Page may set up for free to sign books during the book fair. However, customers must purchase the books through The Charmed Page before or after obtaining a signature.
In-Store Author Events
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Book Launches
- Authors who choose to have their books on consignment with us are invited to have book launch parties in our store.
- We will do our best to accommodate the date you're wanting.
- Authors who choose to have their books on consignment with us are invited to have book launch parties in our store.
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Book signings or readings
- While you are here, the focus is on you. We will not schedule other events to disrupt or take away from your experience.
- You will be in a prime location for visibility and interaction during book signings.
- Social media promotions across multiple platforms.
- Workshops at The Charmed Page.
- Priority is given to authors who actively promote their events and The Charmed Page.
Tips for Success
To maximize your book’s success in a bookstore setting, here are a few tips:
- Hire a professional editor to ensure a polished manuscript.
- Invest in a professionally designed cover and layout to attract readers.
- Research similar titles in your genre and price your book competitively.
- Encourage your friends, family, and others to purchase your books at The Charmed Page.
- The link to your book on charmedpagebooks.com MUST be present on your website and any social media/online presence you have.
- Contact your local media, send out press releases, and use social media to get the word out.
- Get involved with book clubs, libraries, and any other organizations that would be a fit for your book.
Marketing
Promote your book’s availability at The Charmed Page on social media, your website, and through word of mouth.
List The Charmed Page as a purchase location during publicity campaigns.
Congratulations on Publishing Your Book!
Whether or not we choose to carry your book, we wish you continued success on your writing journey. Thank you for sharing your passion and creativity with the world and our community.
For more information, please contact us at authors@charmedpagebooks.com.
We can’t wait to hear from you!
FAQs
Can I visit the bookstore before booking?
Absolutely. We encourage hosts to visit the store so they can see the available space and decide whether it works for their guest count and preferred setup.
Can guests shop during the shower?
Yes. Private shopping can be incorporated into the event, and guests may purchase books and merchandise during the celebration.
Guest purchases are separate from the event fee unless specifically included in your package.
What is a Bride’s TBR Registry?
The bride creates a wishlist of books she would love to own. Guests can purchase books from the registry as shower gifts and add a personalized message using one of our bookplates.
It’s basically a wedding registry, but with fewer towels and significantly more fictional men.
Can guests bring books instead of cards?
Yes. A Books Instead of Cards station can be included so guests can give the bride a book with a personal message written inside or on a custom bookplate.
Can we bring food and drinks?
Food and nonalcoholic beverages may be permitted with prior approval. All refreshments must be kept away from bookstore merchandise and any restricted areas.
Can we decorate the bookstore?
Simple decorations may be allowed with prior approval. Decorations cannot damage the walls, shelves, furniture, books, or merchandise.
Glitter, confetti, open flames, and difficult-to-clean decorations are not permitted.
Are books, favors, and the bride’s gift basket included?
Books, favors, gift baskets, and personalized items are available as package additions unless otherwise stated in your quote.
Custom and bulk orders may require advance payment.
Can the Bridal Book Bar come to any venue?
The Bridal Book Bar may be available for venues in Lake Charles and surrounding areas. Travel fees may apply depending on the location.
The host or venue must provide enough space and appropriate tables for the pop-up display.
How much does a bridal shower cost?
Pricing depends on the date, time, event length, location, customization, staffing needs, and selected additions.
After reviewing your inquiry, we’ll provide a personalized quote.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend submitting your inquiry at least two months before your bridal shower, especially for Saturdays or events requiring custom favors, bookplates, gift baskets, or bulk book orders.
Earlier inquiries are always welcome and offer the best selection of available dates. Events requested with less notice may still be considered based on availability, but customization options may be limited.
Submitting an inquiry does not reserve your date. Your booking is confirmed once the required agreement and reservation retainer have been completed.