Shawn Welcome Keynote Address

Shawn Welcome is the co-founder of the Literary Arts Council of Central Florida and the former Poet Laureate for the City of Orlando. An award-winning professional speaker and gifted storyteller, Shawn inspires, educates, and entertains audiences around the world.

This keynote event is a mixed media experience consisting of spoken word performances, film, and dialogue.  Learn more about Shawn Welcome.

NEW – Hands-On Workshops

Deepen your craft in a focused, two-hour session on Friday. Learn from experienced authors and industry professionals, then put new techniques into practice with structured, hands-on exercises. Including:

• Perfecting the Picture Book Manuscript with Arielle Haughee 
• Flash Fiction with David James Poissant (description coming soon)
• How to Discover the Memoir Within Your Memories with Kerry Kriseman 
• Worldbuilding 101 with Dr. Jenifer Paquette
• Concrete Imagery and Moonlight with Shawn Welcome 

20+ Workshops Designed for Writers

Choose from 20+ different workshops, over Friday and Saturday, that are focused on helping emerging and established writers sharpen their craft, discover new publishing paths, and level up their writing business. Led by experts and industry professionals, you’ll leave feeling inspired and empowered! Check out our Faculty and Workshops here.

NEW – Book Marketing Hot Seat

What would a panel of publishing and marketing professionals say about your book cover, website, sales page, social media post, or other promotional material? On Sunday, Florida WritersCon attendees will have the opportunity to submit one marketing-related item for our panel of publishers, marketing professionals, and a successful traditionally published author to review live. Learn more here.

Writers Connect (Thoughtful Networking)

It’s back! Don’t miss the event attendees raved about last year. Join us on Friday afternoon for 2 hours of thoughtful networking. Instead of milling about a large room and handing out business cards, attendees will participate in guided activities designed to encourage authentic connection and inspire a sense of fun. Come as strangers, leave with a few laughs and new conference friends.