That is the question, right?
At first, the idea of creating a small press can be quite overwhelming. I mean we’re authors and authors write. So when contemplating this question, flashes of panic might intermittently strike at odd times of the day. But don’t worry.
Breathe deep.
And sit in front of your computer. Place your fingers on your keyboard and remember: Google is your friend.
That’s where I found most of my info. Also links on Twitter. Asking other authors. Just don’t Google how to create a cider press because then you’ll be making apple cider, not books.
Again, as with every single decision in the self-publishing journey it depends on your goals. I created a small press specifically as a DBA (doing business as) name with a separate bank account. But that’s me. The state of New Hampshire does not charge a big fee to do this where some states do. And after much debate I decided to print with Lightning Source so I could earn more per book. Yes it is a more complicated process and yes it costs more money to set up.
So there are pros and cons.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with printing books through Createspace and putting your name down as the publisher. Nothing.
I saw some arguments that the print quality is better with Lightning Source, but most Createspace authors are completely happy. If and when a book starts selling well on Amazon through LS, Amazon says it’s out of stock or will take a few weeks to deliver. But most of us don’t need to worry about that because most of us sell more ebooks than print.
And one last thing to consider. Before going official with your small press name make sure to Google it. I came up with some fun names, but, um, they had not so nice meanings. And I thought I was completely making them up. Nope.
Any questions? Even if you’re not considering self publishing any thoughts? Do you own a cider press? Do you even like apple cider?
(And this is totally unofficial because my release date is technically not until May 7th but A Spy Like Me is live on Amazon and Smashwords and will be soon on Barnes and Noble. Eek!)
Thanks for sharing this. I don’t have any idea what to do when you self publish so it’s very interesting to read about. Like I don’t really know anything about Lightening Source or Createspace.
I didn’t either Natalie until I started asking about it. If my state had charged more than the small fee to create a DBA, I would’ve have gone with Createspace no problem.
I’ll retweet this as I’m sure there are many authors it would help!
I know for me going through this process I always love when authors blog about boring topics like this especially if I don’t know anything about it – and I should! Thanks!
Congrats, Laura, on the early release! Woo-hoo! Thanks for the insight into your decision making process. I love to hear the ins and outs, and behind-the-scenes!
Thanks! The whole business is kinda fascinating!
When I considered self pubbing, I thought about this. Why not? So long as you’re able to put in quality stuff, why not put a name on it and call it your own company?
I love that you are sharing every step of your thought process on this journey. You are too good!
There are lots of things to consider because there are so many different ways to approach publishing. And it’s more a matter of weighing the pros and cons.
Ok, so now I’m dying to know what the “not so nice meanings” on your alternate business names were! #nosy
Looking back, I really should’ve known better. I just thought it sounded like a fun name.
Really specific and interesting–
Thank you!
Nice tips! You totally gotta do your homework, that’s for sure!
I’d love to hear more about this! I’ve considered it pretty seriously but have some time ahead of me before I have to make the decision.
P.S. My grandmother owns a cider press – making apple cider remains one of my favorite childhood memories =)
I’ve thought a little about this but haven’t done any research. Thanks for the information.
Decisions.
I’ve thought about it as a possibility, but that’s all. I had no idea how to do it. Thanks.
There are lots of blog posts out there on it. Once you start Googling and looking for them, you’ll find them!
I haven’t even gotten that far in my dreams. 🙂 Maybe one day. I’ve got a lot to learn still! And, yes I like apple cider 🙂
And that’s okay! Enjoy the days of writing and learning your craft! Which I still do even with a book coming out!
This is actually very interesting to me. There are SO many facets now for a writer to get their work to their readers. I personally technology is going to put more writers in control of their careers.
And that is a wonderful feeling, taking charge, for better or worse, where we didn’t have much say before.
Thanks for the information and your opinion, Laura. So much to ponder. I’m not at this point yet, but it’s a great subject to learn about and bank in the brain for later use.
It’s amazing how many different options there are for publishing now. Thanks for all the time you put into researching and reporting on these subjects.
Thanks for sharing!!
Hello!
Well done.
I can’t quite get my head around it all… Yay for you working it out especially the apple cider part.
X
wow, this is not something I’d thought about. Interesting… makes me want to look into it more.
I’d like to taste some cider from the press. I am constantly amazed at the opportunities that present themselves on the Internet.