It’s that time a year again when we, at WinePress, start preparing for the International Christian Retail Show (ICRS). This year it takes place in wonderful Denver Colorado, July 12-15, 2009.

This long standing trade show allows retailers to see new books and products, meet authors, and gain training. I’ve personally attended for almost twenty years, my first in 1990. This event provides a wonderful chance to connect with friends in the industry.

I always feel a bit multi-personality at ICRS since I wear many hats—author, retailer, publisher, and publicist. I even attended a couple years wearing a Media badge, interviewing for articles and book reviews. But in doing so I’ve had the opportunity to view ICRS from many angles and it’s without a doubt a very productive show, and time well-spent for all those involved.

ICRS 2009 celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Christian Bookseller Association (CBA) trade show and they’re planning a spectacular event. There will be lots of activity going on and new opportunities for authors to network with retailers.

What’s the value for an author to attend ICRS?

It gives authors the chance to place their books into the hands of people who buy books for their stores. WinePress authors, who attend ICRS, personally sign and give away 150 copies to potential buyers.

Participating ICRS authors:

• connect with international markets
• connect with major bookstore chains in the Christian market
• meet hundreds of retailers
• network with other authors and people in the industry
• see other books on the market
• glean marketing ideas

This week WinePress will start inviting and gathering names of our authors who want to attend ICRS 2009. If you’re a Pleasant Word or WinePress author and interested in joining us, sign up at ICRS 2009. Watch for details.

Or if you’re a new author and would like your book published in time to attend this year contact our Solutions Advisors.

Watch this video to see why you will not want to miss ICRS 2009.