Cascade Writers

Last weekend, I attended the Cascade Writers Conference in Tacoma. I went to the conference last year and attended two of their day-long workshops.

I love this conference because they are small, and they make an effort for us to get to know each other. We often try to have meals together, not just as writers, but with agents and editors. At larger conferences, agents and editors are often separated out, available only for pitch sessions and panels. At Cascade Writers, they hang out with us during meals and at the bar.

I met both of my current critique partners through Cascade Writers, and found a great new group of beta readers in this year's critique session. Some of our class teachers are new authors themselves who were once like us a few years ago as attendees. There is a lot of encouragement and support, and recognition that we are all human beings who love writing and books.

I enjoyed my time at Cascade Writers very much and have made new friendships through them. I encourage other writers to attend writing conferences, but be on the lookout for smaller conferences, where you might have the opportunity to find critique partners and beta readers, and have smaller sessions with authors and agents and editors. For me, Cascade Writers has provided the support, encouragement, and critical feedback that I have needed as an author.  Visit www.cascadewriters.com for more information.