After each conference, our amazing volunteer team carefully reviews the feedback our participants give on the conference evaluation forms, and we take to heart what you write.
In 2023, several of you commented about how much you enjoyed talking to other writers and networking over lunch. Those comments inspired us to try something new at our 2024 conference—our first-ever Genre Lunch.
On Friday, we set up genre signs on the lobby tables, encouraging writers to sit with others who had similar writing interests. We had no idea how many people would give it a try—and we were blown away with the interest.
In fact, the Genre Lunch tables were so popular that there just weren’t enough seats (on Friday) for all those who wanted to participate. We even heard some were frustrated by the lack of space.
“I like the genre tables at lunch but wish they were bigger!”
“More tables to sit at, please!”
We saw this as a good problem to have and quickly figured out a way to fix it. The next day, we opened up the classrooms during lunch, allowing even more people to participate in genre groups.
The comments we received on last year’s evaluations showed just how valuable this time was for networking and connecting:
“I loved the Genre Lunch.” —Barbra
“I really liked the Genre Lunches. They helped me network in a way I haven’t had the option to in past conferences.” —Paula
“Please continue the idea because it fostered great conversations.” —Leslie
Thanks to your feedback, we do plan to continue the idea. We love that you are meeting new people, enjoying great conversations, and connecting with others in our writing community. We look forward to our next Genre Lunch in 2025. See you at the table!
Robin Montgomery, Secretary, Southwest Washington Writers Conference
Four attendees participating in SWWC genre lunch
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