1:00 - 5:00 PM
Bookstore Prelaunch
Bookstore sellers! Check-in your inventory during this come-and-go set-up. Please be prepared for the possibility of a wait, as our volunteer staff will be processing everyone's stock and preparing for the store's opening Friday morning.
— Pre-Convene Room
4:00 PM
Registration Opens
Check in at the registration desk to confirm your registration package and receive your conference materials. We’ll have your conference badge, program, Quill Quest card, and swag ready for you to collect. This is the spot for picking up your pre-ordered t-shirt and dropping off any donations for the Books for Literacy book drive, too.
— Lobby
5:00 pm - 7:00 PM
Failure to Launch: Breathe New Life into Old Work — Master Class with Jodi Thompson
In this intensive preconference workshop, Jodi will guide writers through a practical framework for diagnosing why a project didn’t gain traction — and how to strategically relaunch it. Participants will examine potential breakdown points, including pacing and structural weaknesses, genre positioning, audience alignment, branding inconsistencies, cover and blurb effectiveness, and marketing missteps. Whether you’re revisiting a completed manuscript that stalled or an unfinished project that lost momentum, these analytical tools will help you determine whether your work needs revision, repositioning, or full reinvention.
To enhance the session, Jodi plans to incorporate a participant’s submission for live case study analysis. If you would like your work considered, watch for a follow-up email after registration with submission details.
*This is a limited-seating additional ticketed event, available until April 17th, or until sold out.
These seats are open to the public and a full conference registration package is not required to purchase a ticket.
— Ballrooms A-B
6:00 PM – 6:30 PM
New Attendee Tour
If you’re joining us for the first time or feel that you might have missed some important features of the annual OWFI conference, join us for a tour of our 2026 offerings. Discover where the pitching magic happens, learn where sessions will be held, explore the Basket Wars battlegrounds, find the book donation area, take a peek into the bookstore, and more!
— Meet in the Lobby
8:30 AM
Opening Ceremony
Ready your imagination for an enchanting weekend of creativity and craft. We’ll set the tone with a lively skit sure to spark inspiration before President Connor Orion steps to the microphone to offer the welcome address. Discover the guideposts that will help you make the most of your conference experience, and meet the people ready to help you navigate the many paths ahead as you explore The Magic of Writing. And should you find favor with the fae, perhaps you’ll even stumble upon a door prize or two!
— Ballrooms A-D
9:10 AM - 10:00 AM
The Agent Pitch Lab with Amy Brewer
Landing a literary agent starts with understanding what agents do—and how to pitch them effectively. In this interactive session, Amy Brewer breaks down the role of an agent in the publishing process and reveals pitch and query strategies that lead to success. Attendees will practice pitching with partners, and volunteers will have the opportunity to actually pitch Amy in front of the class, receiving live critique and real-world feedback.
— Ballroom A
Hooked by Mystery: Creating Intrigue That Pulls Readers In with Marty Ludlum
Mystery is one of the most compelling forces in storytelling, drawing readers and viewers into books, films, and television alike. Why are we so captivated by the unknown? In this session, we’ll explore why audiences are so drawn to intrigue and how writers can use it to create tension, deepen engagement, and keep readers guessing. Learn how mystery fuels curiosity and keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.
— Ballroom B
The Missing Link: Why You Should be Writing Scripts for High School Competitions with Nick Lyon
As a high school speech coach, Nick Lyon sees a lot of performances every year—and reads a lot of scripts. It raises an interesting question: where do these scripts come from? Students announce the title and author before performing, but who are these writers? And the real question is—could you be one of them?
As it turns out, several outlets pay for scripts written specifically for the high school speech competition market. In this session, Nick will share examples of competition scripts, show videos of performances, and point attendees toward resources where they can try to publish their own work. The exciting part? These scripts can be sold all over the country and performed at high school competitions across the United States. Nick hears the name Don Zolidis at nearly every competition—and it turns out, writing for this market is all that guy does for a living.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your writing could end up on a speech and debate stage, this session will show where to start—and how to get your scripts into the hands of student performers across the country.
— Ballroom C
Step Aside, Darling: Getting Out Of Your Own Way with Mercedes M. Yardley
Sometimes we are the toughest roadblocks on the path to literary success. Join Mercedes for a conversation about the ways writers can unknowingly stand in their own way. We'll discuss how to deftly step aside and let our true potential shine, giving our creativity the space and confidence it needs to flourish.
— Ballroom D
10:20 AM – 11:10 AM
Your Agent Meet-Cute: Where Advance Preparation Meets Author-Agent Compatibility and Success
with Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong
Finding the right literary agent isn’t just luck—it’s preparation meeting opportunity. In this session, literary agent Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong walks authors through the important steps to take before sending that first query letter to agents or small publishers.
We’ll uncover the essential steps writers should take before querying, including how to assemble a strong and professional query package, where to find agents who represent your type of work, and how to ensure the professionals you’re contacting are legitimate. Authors will learn how preparation, research, and a little strategy can help spark the right author-agent connection. If you’re getting ready to query, this session will help you approach the process with confidence—and give your story its best chance at a happily-ever-after.
— Ballroom A
Mistakes Were Made with Christine Jarmola
Last spring, while participating on a panel for cozy writers, Christine Jarmola noticed a trend in her answers. As other writers shared what had worked for them, she kept offering examples of what not to do. For example, be sure to purchase your website address or it might get taken over by a Korean lingerie company—or at least that's what she prefers to say it was. Or make sure your free QR code is free for more than a week when printing it on promotional materials. And most importantly, always check your spelling.
In this candid and often humorous session, Christine explores some of the most common mistakes authors make—both on the page and in the business side of writing. From marketing missteps to avoidable writing pitfalls, she shares lessons learned the hard way so others don’t have to. Part cautionary tale and part group therapy, this session offers practical insight, encouragement, and a reminder that every writer’s journey includes a few memorable mistakes along the way.
— Ballroom B
Goblin Gold: Guiding Beta Readers to Better Feedback with Aubrey Green
Beta readers are like tiny manuscript goblins. When well fed, they bring you helpful treasures like “This scene drags” or “I’m confused about the villain.” But when left to their own devices, they may return days—or even weeks—later with “I liked it!” before disappearing into the woods.
In this session, you’ll learn how to guide your readers so their feedback actually helps you revise. Learn how to set expectations, ask better questions, and give readers simple tools to point out what’s working, what’s confusing, and where your story might be wobbling. Because “It’s great!” may feel nice—but it won’t fix Chapter Twelve.
Turn any reader (even your mom) into a key part of your revision process. No goblin-wrangling experience required.
— Ballroom C
Write the Book, Run the Business: Managing Your Creative Career with Julie Smith
For many writers, the creative side of the work comes naturally—but the financial side can feel far less familiar. Realizing that building a creative career also means running a small business may seem overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.
In this session, CPA Julie Smith shares practical perspectives to help authors approach their work with a stronger business mindset—from managing irregular income streams and tracking expenses to tax planning. Developing healthy financial habits and setting long-term financial goals can lay the foundation for financial stability and help you write your way through retirement.
— Ballroom D
11:30 AM – 12:20 PM
Standing Out From the Crowd: The Writer’s Platform with Tikiman & the Viking
With so many books competing for readers’ attention, how does a writer stand out? In this session, Tikiman & the Viking will discuss how a strong author platform can help readers discover you and recognize your work as something worth reading. We’ll look at practical ways to develop your presence, including social media, speaking engagements, and other strategies for creating a recognizable author brand that helps your work rise above the crowd.
— Ballroom C
Traditional Publishing in 2026: The Real Story with Amy Brewer
What does traditional publishing actually look like in today’s market? In this session, Amy Brewer offers a candid look at the realities of publishing in 2026. She’ll share industry numbers that reveal just how competitive the path to publication can be, balanced with uplifting success stories from authors who have made the journey. Attendees will also gain practical advice from agents and publishers on how to navigate the industry and improve their chances of success.
— Ballroom D
12:30 PM – 1:40 PM
Luncheon— Fix a Flat: From Forgettable Villain to Formidable Foe with Merle Davenport
In this interactive luncheon workshop, Merle Davenport shows writers how to transform a flat antagonist into a psychologically compelling force of conflict.
Participants will receive one of several intentionally underdeveloped villain profiles along with a streamlined antagonist trait sheet adapted from Merle’s framework. As they enjoy lunch, attendees will analyze their assigned character, identifying what’s missing and discussing how to strengthen the villain’s motivations, contradictions, and personality.
Merle will begin with a brief overview of the ten key antagonist traits before demonstrating how to add psychological depth and narrative tension that make villains both believable and unforgettable. Using practical tools drawn from his book—and a few real-world examples—he’ll guide writers through the process of turning a stock adversary into a character readers love to hate.
Writers will leave with a clear method for diagnosing weak antagonists and building villains with the depth and complexity their stories deserve.
*This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.
— Ballroom A & B
2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
Once Upon a Panel: Crafting Fable and Fairy Tale Comics with Mel Gillman
Fairy tales and fables have enchanted readers for centuries—and comics offer a powerful way to bring those timeless storytelling traditions to life. In this beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop, graphic novelist and comics professor Mel Gillman will guide participants through the process of creating a short, original fable comic of their own.
Participants will explore the basics of visual storytelling—combining words and images to shape character, setting, and narrative through sequential art—before creating a short comic of their own during the session.
All ages and drawing levels are welcome—no prior comics or illustration experience required.
— Ballroom A
Terrible Advice: Tackled with Jodi Thompson
Terrible advice is never in short supply—especially in the publishing world. In this session, Jodi Thompson tackles some of the most common (and questionable) guidance writers encounter along their publishing journeys.
Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions or concerns prior to the event, and Jodi will select 10–15 to address during the session along with some of the most prevalent advice currently circulating in the industry.
Jodi will break down each topic, parsing the good from the bad and suggesting alternative approaches authors may want to consider. The goal of this session is simple: to help writers navigate the madness of publishing with their sanity—and their pocketbooks—intact.
— Ballroom B
Your Muse Called: She Says You Need an Author Coach with Heather Nuttall Westover
You have a story to tell, but somehow, the words aren't flowing. The plot has more holes than Swiss cheese, and your motivation entered the Federal Witness Protection Program. Sound familiar? Your muse has put her foot down, and decided it's time for backup. Are you ready to meet your literary Ride-or-Die?
In this session, Heather shares how an author coach can help writers break through creative blocks, strengthen their stories, and move forward with clarity and confidence. Learn what an author coach actually does, when it might be time to bring one into your writing life, and how the right support can turn frustration back into forward momentum.
— Ballroom C
Quest to Print: Taking Your D&D Adventure From Play to Profit with Killian Davies
Turning a tabletop idea into a book readers can hold in their hands takes more than a great adventure—it requires planning, design, and a clear path to publication. In this session, Killian Davies shares how he transforms Dungeons & Dragons concepts into finished tabletop modules ready for print, distribution, and sale.
Drawing on his experience creating projects like Loo Loo Lunacy and Wedding Crashers, Killian will break down the process of TTRPG design, crowdfunding, and independent publishing so you can begin bringing your own game ideas to life.
— Ballroom D
3:10 PM – 4:00 PM
The Lyricism of Dialogue with Tikiman (& the Viking)
Playwrights, screenwriters, songwriters, and poets all craft words meant to be spoken, performed, or sung. Fiction writers, however, often focus more on character development and exposition than on how dialogue actually sounds. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how the rhythm, pacing, and word choices within dialogue can shape character, set tone, and influence mood. Through readings and brief performances of classic dialogue from fiction, plays, and film, participants will discover how bringing the “sound” of language onto the page can add depth and energy to their writing.
— Ballroom A
LitRPG, Progression, and Isekai: The Fantasy Boom You Might Be Missing with Tyler Lenz
Across web fiction, indie publishing, and online reading platforms, genres like LitRPG, Progression Fantasy, and Isekai have exploded in popularity. These stories share a common appeal: characters who grow stronger over time, worlds built around structured systems, and narratives driven by advancement, discovery, and power progression.
In this session, Tyler Lenz explores what defines these booming genres, why they resonate so strongly with modern readers, and how writers can use progression-based storytelling—from leveling systems to structured character growth—to build compelling fantasy narratives.
— Ballroom B
Don’t Sign That Yet! What Authors Need to Know About Copyright and Contracts with Lauren Smith
Understanding copyright and contracts is essential for protecting both your work and your career. In this session, you’ll learn the crucial basics of publishing contracts, including key clauses to watch for and how to advocate for yourself when negotiating terms. Lauren will also walk through how contracts shape your relationships with agents, editors, and publishers, and what rights you retain as an author. Learn how to recognize when you have the authority to defend your work—and when you may not.
— Ballroom C
Are Book Trailers Dead? The New Era of Cinematic Promotion for Authors with Ben Richardson
Are book trailers dead, or have they simply evolved? In this session, Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ben Richardson explores why trailers still matter in an era shaped by TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Learn how modern short-form visuals are boosting engagement, fueling discoverability, and helping authors turn browsers into buyers in ways most writers haven’t yet considered.
— Ballroom D
7:00 PM
”Canvas & Quill” Costume Contest
Throughout history, humanity has spun stories—first on cave walls and by firelight, then on canvas, on the page, and across digital media. While much of that earliest folklore may be lost to time, humankind’s drive to tell stories remains—transcending both canvas and quill.
This year’s costume contest, Canvas & Quill, celebrates the rich connection between art and literature. Come dressed as an author, an artist, a literary character, or a favorite work of art. Get inspired! Grab some red hair dye and step into a Rossetti. Paint happy little trees as Bob Ross. Gather a group and recreate The Last Supper. Or be your own work of art—with the right framing.
Join us as we create our own Louvre at OWFI. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Best Group—along with bragging rights and perhaps something delightfully random.
Famous Author’s Banquet
Come celebrate this year’s successes with our Famous Author’s Banquet. Presenter Jennifer McMurrain will showcase OWFI authors who have published a book, an active blog, or journalistic contributions since May of 2025.
Keynote Presentation: Finding the Magic in a Mundane World
The world today is gritty, polarizing, and can feel utterly devoid of magic. Not true, my friends! We'll discuss how to find the precious things that shimmer and shine... for you, and for others.
— Ballroom A-D
9:30 PM
Buzz Sessions
Informal, come & go chats hosted by various attendees & speakers.
— Topics and locations to be announced at the Famous Author’s Banquet
9:10 AM – 10:00 AM
Whose Head Are We In Now? Head Hopping and Other Point-of-View Violations with Ally Robertson
Learn how to spot head hopping and other point-of-view violations in your writing, how to revise them, and why it matters. Many authors, especially newbies, head hop by jumping from one character’s thoughts to another’s within the same scene, sometimes even within the same paragraph. This can be jarring for readers, and even when it seems to flow smoothly, it is usually best avoided.
Think you may be guilty as charged? Head hopping attendees are welcome to submit a writing sample to Ally in advance for review and possible use during the workshop as an example for on-the-spot fixes. Click here to send your sample as a Word attachment using “POV Workshop” in the subject line.
— Ballroom A
The Editorial Escape Room: Curse of the Doomed Draft with Aubrey Green
Something has gone terribly wrong with this manuscript. Legend has it the draft is cursed—and only a team of sharp-eyed writers can break the spell.
In this hands-on workshop, participants will work in small groups to solve a series of editorial “puzzles” designed to rescue a story before time runs out. Equal parts craft lesson, puzzle room, and collaborative chaos, this session transforms the editing process into a magical adventure.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned writer, you’ll sharpen your editorial instincts, learn how to identify (and fix) common manuscript mishaps, and have more fun editing than you thought possible. Break the curse. Save the story. Escape the draft — if you can.
— Ballroom B
Characters with Differences: Crafting Representation with Authenticity & Sensitivity with TwylaBeth Lambert
Characters with differences—whether neurospicy, chronically ill, with curves or with crutches—can bring richness, complexity, and sometimes beautiful messiness to a story. But portraying those differences with authenticity and sensitivity can be tricky.
In this session, we’ll talk about what works when writing characters with differences and how to avoid making that difference the sum of who the character is. We’ll also explore how to avoid painting an entire group with a narrow brush. The goal is dimensional, whole-person characters—not caricatures or simplistic tropes.
Readers welcome thoughtful, well-executed representation. Let’s explore how to write it well.
— Ballroom C
Pick Your Path: Choose the Right Publishing Path for You with Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong
Today’s writers have more publishing options than ever before—but how do you know which path is the right one for you and your goals? In this session, literary agent Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong offers a clear overview of the major publishing routes available to authors, including self-publishing, small presses, and pursuing representation for large traditional publishers.
Together, we’ll explore what each path involves, the steps required to pursue it successfully, and the advantages and challenges authors should consider along the way. Whether you’re preparing to publish your first book or weighing your options for the future, this session will help you better understand the landscape and choose the publishing path that best fits your work and your writing career.
— Ballroom D
10:20 AM – 11:10 AM
Publishing Pros Panel: First-Page Reads
Amy Brewer, Aubrey Green, Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong, TwylaBeth Lambert, and Ally Robertson come together for the First-Page Reads Panel, sharing live feedback and industry perspective as volunteers’ opening pages are read aloud. Drawing on their publishing experience, the panelists will offer honest reactions, highlight strengths, and discuss the elements that help a first page establish voice, build intrigue, and capture the attention of publishing professionals..
— Ballroom A
Serialized Fiction: How to Build an Audience Chapter by Chapter with Tyler Lenz
More and more authors are finding success by releasing their work online one chapter at a time. Platforms like Royal Road and subscription communities such as Patreon have created new opportunities for writers to grow dedicated audiences before a book is ever complete.
In this session, Tyler Lenz explores how serialized fiction works, why the model has become so popular in genres like LitRPG and progression fantasy, and how writers can use consistent releases and audience engagement to build momentum. Learn how authors are turning serialized storytelling into thriving reader communities—and, in many cases, sustainable income.
— Ballroom B
My Book (or Series) Is Ready for Hollywood—What Are My Next Steps? with Ben Richardson
You’ve written the book—now what does it actually take to get Hollywood interested? Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Ben Richardson breaks down the real-world avenues authors can explore to position their story for film or TV adaptation. If you’ve ever wondered how your book could become a film, this is the session you won’t want to miss.
— Ballroom C
Kickstarter 101: Crowdfunding for Creators with Killian Davies
What makes a crowdfunding campaign successful? In this session, you’ll learn what information potential backers need to see, why strong visuals matter, and how to design rewards that encourage supporters to invest in your project.
Killian Davies, creator behind AZ Stolas, breaks down the process of building an effective Kickstarter campaign page, using his own current project as a real-world example to demonstrate the steps involved in preparing a campaign for launch.
— Ballroom D
11:30 AM – 12:20 PM
The Author Platform Playbook: Social Media That Builds Readers with Amy Brewer
For traditionally published authors, a strong online presence is no longer optional. In this session, Amy Brewer explains why maintaining at least two social media platforms—along with a professional author website—can be critical to long-term success. She’ll explore which platforms work best for different genres, how to develop a manageable posting schedule, and strategies for growing an engaged readership without feeling overwhelmed by the process.
— Ballroom C
From First Book to Superfan: How to Write a Series Readers Can’t Quit with Lauren Smith
What turns a series into a binge-worthy obsession? In this session, multi-time USA Today bestselling author Lauren Smith breaks down what makes a series truly compelling and keeps readers coming back for more. You’ll explore both craft and strategy, from building story momentum across multiple books to using smart back matter that nudges readers to click “buy” on the next installment. Learn how to turn curious readers into loyal, die-hard fans who can’t wait for the next chapter.
— Ballroom D
12:30 PM – 1:40 PM
Luncheon— Inked Insights: Queer Comics and Graphic Novels with Mel Gillman
What makes comics such a vibrant medium for telling stories about queer experiences?
In this luncheon session, comics professor and graphic novelist Mel Gillman will explore the unique language of visual storytelling and discuss the inventive ways contemporary LGBTQ comics creators are using comics to examine complex queer experiences. Mel will highlight how comics blend image and narrative to capture identity, history, humor, and emotional truth—and why the medium continues to be such a powerful space for queer storytelling.
*This is an optional add-on at registration. Space is limited.
— Ballroom A & B
2:00 PM – 2:50 PM
Cancel Proof: Working with a Sensitivity Reader with Jodi Thompson
Whether you are a fan or foe, cancel culture exists in publishing. More and more authors, editors, and publishers are working with sensitivity readers to read for bias, stereotypes, misrepresentation, and offensive content long before a book makes it to market. Do you need one? How do you find one? And what in the heck do you do once the sensitivity reader report comes back?
In this session, Jodi Thompson shares real-life examples of sensitivity reader feedback and offers a framework to help authors determine whether their manuscript may need a sensitivity reader. Time permitting, Jodi will also lead a discussion on safeguarding your author image as a protection against cancellation.
After a brief discussion and examples of sensitivity reader feedback, attendees will examine portions of classic literature through the lens of the 2020s. Together, participants will consider where a sensitivity reader might be a good idea and what specific type of reader they would recommend.
Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of the purpose of a sensitivity reader and guidance on how to move forward if their manuscript needs one.
— Ballroom A
Cozy Up With a Cozy with Christine Jarmola
Curl up with one of mystery’s most beloved genres as Christine Jarmola explores the world of cozy mysteries in this three-act session. Act One looks at the history of the cozy mystery and the classic elements that define the genre—from amateur sleuths to charming settings and puzzles readers love to solve. Act Two steps into today’s cozy landscape, exploring how the genre has evolved and what modern readers are loving today. Act Three focuses on the essentials for writers who want to craft their own cozy mystery—what ingredients belong in the story, and what should stay out.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or considering writing your own cozy mystery, this session offers insight into the tradition, tools, and enduring appeal of stories where intrigue is high as wit, charm, and clever clues lead the way.
— Ballroom B
The Darker Edge of Legend: Writing Complex Fantasy with Myth and Folklore with The Viking (& Tikiman)
Mythology, folklore, and ancient writings offer rich material for fantasy writers looking to deepen character, plot, and setting. In this session, Brian Johnson draws from Norse mythology, Northern European folklore and sagas, and Japanese folklore to show how these traditions can inspire unforgettable characters, immersive worlds, and monsters that linger in the reader’s mind.
— Ballroom C
Write the Book, Run the Business: Managing Your Creative Career with Julie Smith
For many writers, the creative side of the work comes naturally—but the financial side can feel far less familiar. Realizing that building a creative career also means running a small business may seem overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be.
In this session, CPA Julie Smith shares practical perspectives to help authors approach their work with a stronger business mindset—from managing irregular income streams and tracking expenses to tax planning. Developing healthy financial habits and setting long-term financial goals can lay the foundation for financial stability and help you write your way through retirement.
— Ballroom D
3:10 PM – 4:00 PM
Don't Forget Your Tuner: The Basics of Songwriting with Nick Lyon
The lyrics of a song are just another form of poetry…right? If that’s the case, why aren’t more poets also songwriters? As a guitar player for more than thirty years and a songwriter for over twenty, Nick Lyon has spent decades performing with bands on hundreds of stages—from living rooms and restaurants to the occasional former strip club. Along the way, he discovered that songwriting can be a powerful creative outlet, especially when the story you’re working on just isn’t ready to be written but you still feel the need to create.
In this session, Nick will share his own songwriting journey while exploring what makes a song work. Participants will look at the building blocks of songwriting, try a short idea-generating exercise, and learn the basics of recording and sharing music online so others can hear it. What’s scarier than publishing a story you’ve been working on? Singing a song where people can actually hear you, of course.
— Ballroom A
The Monster at the End of this Page: Let's Draw Horror Comics! with Mel Gillman
What scares you most? In this beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop, horror cartoonist and comics professor Mel Gillman will explore how comics use mood, tension, and visual storytelling to create effective horror stories.
Participants will learn how pacing, atmosphere, and panel-to-panel storytelling work together to build dread on the page. Mel will then guide the group through the process of writing and drawing a short, original horror comic of their own, using simple comics techniques to bring eerie ideas to life.
All ages and drawing levels are welcome—no prior comics or illustration experience required.
— Ballroom B
From "The End" to Worth the Applause with Heather Westover
You’ve finished the manuscript… but deep down you know it’s not quite there yet. In this encouraging, no-nonsense session, we’ll talk about what really separates a finished draft from a story that truly shines—and why “done” is often where great stories start to flounder.
You’ll learn how to move from Done to “Dang… That’s Good!” by recognizing the blind spots that hold your work back and silencing the imposter syndrome that whispers you’re not good enough. This session will challenge you to raise the bar on your craft, trust your calling as a writer, and do the hard work that turns a manuscript into something truly worth the applause.
— Ballroom C
Legal Landmines for Writers: What You Need to Know Before You Get Sued with Marty Ludlum
Marty, a novelist and seasoned lawyer (which means he’s old), will explain some of the basic legal issues writers face. Don’t take legal advice from someone who isn’t a lawyer—get it from someone who’s been licensed since 1989. (Don’t do the math. That’s not polite.)
Topics will include libel and slander, using real people and places in your writing, incorporating your writing business, tax turmoil (he’ll tell you everything he knows—which isn’t much), the many ways writers manage to get themselves sued, and other legal pitfalls novelists should avoid. There will be plenty of time for questions, so be sure to bring them.
— Ballroom D
4:15 PM – 4:30 PM
OWFI Board Meeting
— Ballroom A-D
4:40 PM – 5:00 PM
OWFI General Membership Meeting
— Ballroom A-D
7:00 PM
Awards Banquet
The Awards Banquet brings a touch of glamour to Saturday night with a plated dinner, celebratory atmosphere, and plenty of memorable moments. Join us as we announce the winners of the 2026 OWFI Writing Contest and recognize this year’s Honorary Lifetime Member—one of our own whose dedication and service have made a lasting difference to OWFI and its writing community.
— Ballroom A-D
