goodmangames wrote:
This year's event was put together in less than 6 months based on an idea I had at lunch with my marketing guy. Next year we have 12 months to plan. 12 months to plan means you have enough time to accomodate the longer lead times of certain larger publishers. This year's "proof-of-concept" -- which went very well, considering most stores had customers showing up before opening to claim the goodies -- has persuaded a great many stores that this day is worth turning into a real in-store event.
I think time of year may have been an issue for the low turnout where I was, Joseph. Rock Hill is a college town, and the free day took place during the summer semester, so most students who may have had an interest in the day were back at their respective homes.
Vacation time was another factor. It's beach time around here, and most of my gamer friends had already scheduled to be away for vacation that weekend.
One other comment. We have a strong RPGA following in South/North Carolina. Most of them play Greyhawk, Living Arcanis, and lately Blackmoor. If you could at least get Paradigm Concepts and Zeitgeist involved next year with some product, if not Wotc, then I think interest would perk around here. With these folks, if it's not going to help them in their RPGA games, then they aren't interested.
I've still to hear how it went over in neighboring Fort Mill. I'll try to find out. Joseph, if you'd like a liaison coordinator in the South, I'd be glad to do what I can to help make next year's event the best it can be.
Christina