FAQs

The workshop is sold out. Can I still come?

A week after we opened registration, the workshop sold out. Click here for information about the wait list.

 

Who attends the workshop?

In 2010 more than 350 beginning and professional writers attended the writers’ workshop, which sold out months ahead of time. Attendees came from across the United States and Canadian provinces. Many writers credit the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop with providing the knowledge and connections that brought their writing and publishing success to the next level.

 

What do they think of it?

We survey attendees after each workshop, and here are some of their recent comments:

• “Sitting here at my computer, I am a refreshed and energized writer.”

• “Simply the finest workshop of its kind, hands-down!”

• “It was the most wonderful experience of my writing life.”

• “The most well-organized conference I’ve ever attended. … The only way to improve it would be to serve free scotch during the sessions…”

• “I have been to many workshops and conferences over the years and this is the first one I attended that I did not want to end.”

• “This was the best conference I’ve ever attended! … I usually do three a year…”

• “I never thought such a sleep-depriving couple of days could feel so energizing. I was sad it ended so soon!”

• “The keynote speakers were terrific — I laughed till I cried! —  and the workshops I attended were very helpful and gave me a lot of great ideas.”

• “The variety of sessions was tremendous, and the high caliber of speakers exceeded my expectations.”

Some numerical results from our 2010 workshop survey include:

• 82% gave the “workshop as a whole” a rating of 8, 9 or 10.

• 82% also gave the workshop an 8, 9 or 10 rating for value.

• 72% said the knowledge and connections they gained at the workshop will cover the full cost of attending or cover far more than the cost of attending.

 

Why is the cost what it is?

The registration fee for the 2012 workshop is $375. Because of the generosity of workshop sponsors and speakers, we are thrilled that we are able to charge such a modest fee. If we had to charge all our expenses to workshop attendees, our registration fee would more than double. The workshop fee includes all workshop sessions as well as two continental breakfasts, two lunches and three dinners.

 

Who are the workshop faculty?

The 2012 writers’ workshop faculty will include more than two dozen experienced writers and publishing professionals. They’re picked for their ability to entertain while they educate. Most have taught at other writers’ workshops. You won’t find this type of lineup at any other writers’ workshop.

 

What should I bring?

Your sense of humor, first of all. Business cards, if you have them, so you have a quick way of exchanging contact information with others at the workshop.

 

What should I wear?

Comfortable shoes, of course. The atmosphere of the workshop is very relaxed. Some attendees wear jeans, while others prefer a business casual look. It’s a whirlwind two-and-a-half days, so the key is being comfortable. The weather in Ohio can be unpredictable in April, so be sure to check the forecast in the days before you leave.

 

How do I get to Dayton?

Dayton International Airport has daily flights from around the country. For ground transportation to and from the airport, we arrange a shuttle service at a reasonable rate. More information will be available closer to the workshop.

 

Where do I stay?

We are proud that the Dayton Marriott is a sponsor of the workshop and its official hotel. The hotel blocks a limited number of rooms at a special rate for Bombeck Workshop attendees, and many of the workshop events take place in its ballroom. (Writers have also been known to gather in the hotel bar after the official program ends each evening.) Book early to ensure your reservation.

 

What will I eat?

The workshop registration includes dinner all three nights, plus continental breakfast and lunch on Friday and Saturday as well as snacks during breaks. You won’t go hungry. During the registration process, we’ll ask you about any special dietary considerations.