Hosting a book launch is a bit like organising a wedding – but the good news is it doesn’t have to be as expensive! The key is partnering with others wherever possible.

Just like a wedding, there are many things to consider: venue, guest list, invitations, catering, entertainment, photographer, decorations, book table, ushers, a running sheet, and the all important thank-yous! 

Venue: The obvious choice is to host your launch at a bookstore, but there are plenty of other possibilities, such as a church, hall or café. Think about the subject matter of your book – if it is about fashion, hold your launch at a boutique. If your book is about education or for children, ask the local school. Your library would probably be very interested too!

For my first book launch, my own church women’s ministry supported me by hiring a room at the local cultural centre (as we didn’t have a church building of our own at that stage). The second time around, I chose a café attached to a large church. 

Guest List: Invite everybody you can think of! Many people have never been to a book launch and will be intrigued enough to come along, especially if you can entice them with free food and/or entertainment. Don’t forget to invite your family, your friends, your church, your neighbours, your workmates, your writing buddies, and of course anybody who supported you during the writing of your book.

Depending on how big a splash you want to make, you could invite along some dignitaries – local politicians, community and business leaders, or the local media.

Just remember: the more you invite, the more are likely to turn up and the more books you will sell!

At the “Clues to your Calling” launch in 2003, there were about 100 people in attendance; at the “Decadence” launch in 2008 at the café, we had about 70 women (and would have been hard-pressed to fit anybody else in!). But I have been to heaps of book launches where twenty or thirty people seemed like a crowd, because a more intimate venue was chosen.

Invitations: Nothing beats a personal invitation, and with computers and the wide range of stationery available today, it’s easy to make your own. For “Clues to your Calling” we had a purple theme (to match the cover of the book), and I made invitations out of sparkly lavender card, with plain white inserts glued in (see picture below). You could use a pad of party invitations , or photocopies that you can hand out to all and sundry!

If you want to open your event up to the local public, a notice in your local paper and posters in nearby shop windows, bookstores, or your chosen venue (whether a church, hall or café)  would also be a good idea.

Don’t forget to encourage guests to RSVP, so you can keep track of the numbers for catering purposes. Be aware though that many people don’t let you know they are coming, or say they will be there and then don’t turn up. Australians are notoriously bad at RSVPing! I have learnt this the hard way. At the “Clues” launch this didn’t matter so much, but at the “Decadence” launch unfortunately I still had to pay for those ten people that didn’t show up. 

Catering: What sort of food are you going to feed your guests? Hors d’oeuvres? Morning tea? Wine and cheese? Who is going to serve it, and how are you going to pay for it?

As mentioned earlier, the “Clues to your Calling” launch was done in partnership with my church women’s team. A few of the ladies contributed a plate of goodies, while another (who loves catering and cooking) oversaw all the catering arrangements and was capably assisted by her teenage daughters at the actual event. This was great as it was one less thing I had to worry about!

In order to help cover the costs, we asked for a “gold coin” entry fee to the event. This made it affordable for everyone and I was able to give this money back to the women’s team.

As the “Decadence” launch was held at a café, they provided an afternoon tea for just $10 per head, which was exactly what we charged our guests. Or you could charge slightly extra to help you cover the costs of a performer or the invitations or whatever. Just remember, the more expensive it is, the less likely people are to come, and the less books you will sell.

Entertainment: Try to think of something that ties in with your book’s theme. At the “Clues to your Calling” launch, the whole night was a celebration of people contributing their talents and callings, a great example of my book’s message! Some young people from church played background music, and later perform a couple of items. A couple of dignitaries – our women’s pastor, and my writing group president – gave short speeches, and being the author, I also got to share a few words.

At the launch of “Decadence” we took a slightly different tack. This time our guests were all women, so we had a couple of icebreaker games (you can find heaps on the internet) to start things off. A gospel singer performed a couple of songs which she was happy to do in exchange for the opportunity to sell and promote her CDs at the event, and our speaker was a DJ from a local Christian radio station.

Perhaps you could do a short reading from your book, or show a Powerpoint presentation of photos relevant to your subject matter.

Lucky door prizes are also fun – tape a ticket under a couple of chairs before hand, and then ask everybody to check beneath their chair. Or hand out raffle tickets at the door. Of course, the prize would be a copy of your book/s!

Why not celebrate with a cake? A cake-cutting (just like at a wedding) is fun, and also a great photo opportunity! 

Photographer: You will be too busy to think about taking any photos, so assign this task to a snap-happy friend or family member – ask them to be your official photographer for the occasion! Not only will you capture precious memories, you can use these in media releases and publicity for your book.

Decorations: Some of the Footprints Team Members assisted with the decorations at the “Clues” launch. They cut out large stars from purple and silver cardboard, which we then stuck around the walls of the room with blu-tac. We also had a few arrangements of purple helium balloons tied with silver ribbon, to add to the party atmosphere.

At the “Decadence” launch, our theme was gold and red roses. We bought some roses from a wholesaler, and had some in vases, as well as leaving some loose to decorate the display and book tables. I bought some gold fabric to drape over tables, and printed out colour copies of the book cover which I laminated and stuck on the walls. Finally, we sprinkled all the tables with gold confetti.

The Book Table: To decorate the all-important book table you will need tablecloth/s, and copies of your book (of course!). You may like to print and frame a cover of your book to place on the table. And don’t forget a receipt book, cash box (I recommend a $50 float in small change), and pens so you can sign copies for your fans! As many of the guests will want to spend some time chatting with you, the author, it’s a good idea to have a couple of other people to handle the sales part.

Ushers: Make sure you have a couple of designated “greeters” at the door of your event, to collect the entry fee (if any), to hand out lucky door tickets and/or name tags, and generally make people feel welcome. 

Running Sheet: So that things run smoothly, prepare a running sheet beforehand and give a copy to anybody involved in the “formalities” of your event eg performers, speakers, the café staff.  That way everybody knows what is happening and when.

Thank Yous: It’s important to make a point of thanking everybody for all their help – after all you may need them again at your next book launch! You can do this by mentioning them in your speech, or in the acknowledgements page of your book. Make sure you give a copy of your book to those who have been especially helpful and/or provided their services for free!

Just like a wedding, you could follow up with a thank you note to each of your guests. Or, send them home with a cake bag or even a party bag!  At the launch of “Decadence” we gave each of our guests a small organza bag of goodies, including a fridge magnet, some sweets and a couple of other tiny treats, to show them that we appreciated their presence at our special day.

Most of us have organised a party or even a wedding at some stage in our lives. As you can see, organising a book launch is very similar. You’ve worked hard and have something extraordinary to celebrate – the launch of your book. This is your special time – enjoy it!

The celebrations for our 50th issue continue – this time, with a blog tour!

So what is a blog tour? I hear you ask! Well, it’s a bit like when an author goes on a book tour to promote their book – stopping at different towns to participate in interviews. A blog tour is the online version – where the featured book/author (or in this case magazine & editor) make guest appearances on different blogs.

So here’s your complete blog itinerary – a complete list of what’s happening, and when!

• Thursday 24/6 - thanks to Wendy from On the Edge of Ordinary  (http://mmuser.blogspot.com/)  for kicking things off. Although currently in Brisbane, Wendy will be moving back to Japan within the next few weeks!
• Friday 25/6 – we jump over the border for an interview with Julie south of Sydney at  http://worksformehomemaking.wordpress.com/.
• Saturday 26/6 – Back up to sunny Queensland, where our host today is Kay from the Gold Coast, at  http://heartsoulexchange.blogspot.com/.
• Sunday 27/6 – Catch our latest interview with Michelle, also from the Gold Coast http://michelledevans.blogspot.com/.
• Monday 28/6 – Moving on almost to Melbourne, with Kathie from Victoria at http://proverbs31-woman.com/.
• Tuesday 29/6 – Back up to the southside of Brisbane for a chat with Lil from  http://motheringmisadventures.blogspot.com/.
• Wednesday 30/6 – Head on over to Brisbane’s northern outskirts for Corallie’s feature on Footprints at  http://buchanan-beeline.blogspot.com/.
• Thursday 1/7 – Joni from the Blue Mountains in NSW plays host to the Footprints blog tour today at http://every1matters.wordpress.com/.
• Friday 2/7 – Go west dear reader, as we chat with Narelle from Perth at www.momentsformum.com. (Narelle is also our WA state rep).
• Saturday 3/7 - Back to the Brissie girls, with the popular www.squigglemum.com for an interview with Catherine.
• Sunday 4/7 – Still in Brisbane, with Paula at http://paulassharingspot.blogspot.com/.
• Monday 5/7 – Heading west – but not quite so far this time! Stopping in with the bubbly Kelly in Toowoomba at http://beafunmum.com/.
• Tuesday 6/7 – And finally, an interview practically in our own backyard with Tabitha in the Redlands at http://tabithabird.blogspot.com/.

Footprints would like to thank each and every one of our hosts on our 50th issue celebration blog tour … please encourage them with your comments to let them know you’ve visited!

Hope you enjoy – and tell your friends – all about our blog tour!

I found the following article buried in my computer archives, and thought it really captured my early enthusiasm for all things Footprints, as well as what the world was like back then (we didn’t even have a website!). As far as I can calculate, I wrote it in about 2000 when Footprints was only a couple of years old and posted it on a (now defunct) writer’s website, to help other writers.

At the time it was called “Promoting Your Newsletter or Zine … how to make them sign on the dotted line”, because in those days Footprints really was just a (magazine-style) newsletter.

Hope you enjoy the read, and perhaps you will find ideas and principles that you can use with your blog, book, or whatever writing you are doing …

As a writer, you will probably find that you spend just as much time marketing your work as you do actually writing it.

In January 1998 I started a non profit newsletter for Australian Christian women.  It all started because I saw a need.  Everything currently on offer was either not Australian, not specifically for women, or pushed a particular narrow doctrinal viewpoint.  I knew that I longed to read a magazine that was Christian, balanced, positive and uplifting – something that I would feel comfortable giving to my friends.  So that is exactly what I set out to achieve.  Now, two and a half years later, I am printing 350 copies of each issue, which are then sent throughout Australia and beyond.  “Footprints” subscribers come from all walks of life, different denominations and yes, we even have some dedicated male readers!

It seems a long way from those early days when I begged all of my friends to sign up, to help get it off the ground.  Nowadays, I have never even heard of the majority of my subscribers, let alone met them!  But it hasn’t come easily.  I have noticed that half, maybe more, of the time I spend working on my newsletter is to promote it – rather than writing, editing or layout!

The best advertisement by far is “word of mouth”.  Encourage your regular readers to sign up their friends with little incentives – a bonus issue perhaps.  “Footprints” offers special “mate’s rates” or a cheaper price for bulk subscriptions sent to the same address. For some strange reason the postage is cheaper for these amounts so we pass on the savings to our readers.  What I am finding is that when readers sign up for their next subscription, they will usually order more than one, to give out to their family and friends.

The other difficulty is getting people to sign up again once their year’s subscription is due to be renewed.  I’ve had a lot of success by offering a three year subscription at a reduced rate.  Readers appreciate signing up for a good price, and not having to worry about writing or sending a cheque for quite some time.  With a yearly renewal, that twelve months seems to roll around awfully quick!

I am interviewed on Community Radio (a Christian station) every three months and that is  another great way of pulling in subscribers.  Later this year I will be appearing on a Christian women’s chat show on Cable TV for the same reason. (Sadly, this never happened!)

I also “speak” and run Footprints writing workshops at ladies groups and meetings, which generates subscriptions as well.  And, I send two or three press releases and/or photos to the local paper each year about big events happening in the “Footprints” world – for example, when we celebrate an anniversary, to promote one of my speaking engagements  or the Ladies Retreat which we will be hosting later this year.

I also make a point of getting involved at community events such as the Easter 2000 fete which the churches in my area put on, or at conferences.  I have a display stand, free sample copies and plenty of leaflets which I take with me. At Easter 2000 I organised the Mum’s Sanity Corner tent – playdough for the kids, and free tea/coffee for the parents. It was a quiet spot for young families to unwind, and parents could feed and change their babies.  This was quite suitable as women or parents are “Footprints” main target audience.

When we first started out, I sent a few introductory packs to churches, usually including some free sample copies, flyers and a reference from my pastor.  However, it didn’t seem to generate any response so I have stopped doing it – it cost too much for little or no results! When I phoned to find out the general reaction to the packs I had sent, they seemed to think I was “selling something” so weren’t interested. Sadly, they didn’t  catch the “Footprints” vision. “Footprints” is a not for profit newsletter – I make nothing out of it and neither does anybody else involved with it. I feel it is something God has called me to do. I would love to see churches take advantage of our discount rates and give “Footprints” to their congregations, or unchurched ladies in  their community – to bless them, to inspire them, to encourage them, to inform them.  It hasn’t worked; but you really do have to be willing to try anything and everything.  Continue only with those methods that get results!

I’ve also taken out ads in other Christian publications; or I write articles for them and they give me a bit of a promotion in my by-line.

I am working on getting a website up an running as well, I think that would be an excellent promotional tool.

The funny thing is, when I do get new subscribers they’re always like, “This is great!  Why didn’t we know about this before!” which kind of makes me laugh because as you can see I’m doing all I can to get it out there!

My dream is to one day see “Footprints” go from its current black and white format to a glossy full colour publication.  I’d love to see it on the shelves of Christian bookstores or  even newsagents around the country.  According to my research, retail outlets and distributors will not take me seriously until I have developed a solid subscriber base on my own.   Imagine if I went to the biggest chain of Christian bookstores and said “I have this newsletter with 1000 subscribers without any help or distribution” – I’m assured they will want to stock it as they will see it as a going concern.  One day!

 I wish you the best of luck as you try to make a go of your own particular writing concerns!

To mark our 50^th edition of Footprints, I’ve put together a collection of fifty fascinating facts about Footprints. 

1. Footprints is not the first magazine our editor Janet has headed up! She ran a penpalling magazine with her best friend for about eight or nine months when she was 13. 
2. The magazine was called “Cheeky” after her favourite perfume at the time. 
3. The Footprints vision was given to our soon-to-be editor at a women’s camp on Mt Tamborine Qld in September 1997. 
4. The first issue was launched just 3 months later, in January 1998. 
5. The front cover of our first issue was hot pink, and featured the footprints of our editor’s baby daughter! 
6. By the time the second issue came out in April 1998, we had the grand total of 25 subscribers. (Wow! People actually paid to receive our little magazine!) 
7. Of those 25, most are still subscribing! 
8. A one year subscription to Footprints back in 1998 cost just $7 (including postage!). Today it is only $12, with discounts available for bulk orders to the same address (3 or more = $8 each).  
9. Although we charge a small subscription free to cover our costs, we are always happy to offer a free 3 year subscription to anybody who truly can’t afford it. Simply ask editor@footprintsaustralia.com.  
10. These free gift subscriptions are made possible thanks to a number of supporters who give over and above their own subscription, to bless others. You know who you are!!! We pray that God will bless you for your caring and support! 
11. The largest number of subscriptions ever taken out by a single group was 30, by Samford Valley Community Church in Qld. 
12. After much prayer, God revealed the name “Footprints” to our editor in a dream, along with 3 reasons why it would be perfect. 
13. The first reason was that it brought to mind the famous “Footprints in the Sand”, a Christian poem which is known by many throughout the world. 
14. The second is that we should all be aiming to walk in the footprints of Jesus!  
15. And the third was that as a magazine aimed at women, we all know what it’s like to have dirty footprints track across a freshly cleaned floor (grrrrrr)! 
16. Our original slogan was “Encouragement for women, wives and mothers”. 
17. This later changed to “for women like you, by women like you”. 
18. The first official “Footprints” speaking engagement was in 2000, when our editor spoke at the Bayside Ecumenical Ladies Fellowship (at least I think it was the first one … my memory is a bit fuzzy about the exact details!). 
19. Since then three of our team members have taken up the challenge of representing Footprints at speaking engagements – Mel, Janet, and Nicola. No mean feat considering each is already juggling family, work/study, and church commitments! 
20. We also can recommend speakers in other parts of the country – Kathie (www.kathiemthomas.com) in Victoria is our web editor; and also our WA state rep in Perth, Narelle Nettelbeck (www.momentsformum.com). Contact editor@footprintsaustralia.com to book a Footprints speaker for your event. 
21. In April 2002, our email chat group, Footprints Chat, was started at the request of readers who wanted to connect and fellowship with other women online.  You can join at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FootprintsChat/.
22. The Footprints website was first launched in July 2002. 
23. We held our first ever writing competition around the theme of “God Answered My Prayer” in 2002. Winners were announced in January 2003. 
24. February 2004 was the first “Footprints E-News” bulletin, a monthly email update. Nowadays it’s called the FOCUS ezine and has nearly 500 members. 
25. Our handy purse-sized magazine format was introduced in April 2003. 
26. The first Footprints book was published in 2003. It was called “Clues to your Calling: finding & following God’s will for your life” and was written by our editor, Janet Camilleri. (It’s still available from www.lightthedark.com.au for $17.95). 
27. The launch party for “Clues” was held at the Redlands Cultural Centre in September 2003, and was attended by over 100 people. 
28. The Summer 2004 issue included a free Christmas gift for every reader – a beaded bracelet, made with love by members of the Footprints Team. It took nearly all year to create approximately 300 bracelets! This started a tradition … 
29. Our subscribers have received the following Christmas gifts over the years: scrapbooked bookmarks (2005); handpainted doorhangers that read “Do not disturb – I’m reading Footprints!” in 2006; handcrafted bangles in 2007; a fridge magnet in 2008; and a bonus Christmas recipe liftout in 2009. (Would welcome any ideas for 2010!)  
30. By February 2005, we had over 250 current subscribers. 
31. We trialled a colour cover for our Winter 2005 issue; 
32. And upgraded to a full colour, glossy cover later that year! 
33. In 2006 we were blessed to find a local photographer, Victoria Purdie (www.purdiephotography.com) who has provided us with the majority of our magazine covers ever since. 
34. Footprints celebrated 10 years of publication at the beginning of 2008, with a birthday party at Rivers Café, Mansfield, in Brisbane. Approximately 70 ladies joined in the fun and we loved meeting our readers face to face! 
35. The second Footprints book, “DECADENCE: treat yourself to 10 years of Footprints” was launched at this event. (You can buy “Decadence” from Koorong, www.lightthedark.com.au, or contact Footprints direct). 
36. Special guests at our 10^th birthday party were Katie Clift from Brisbane’s 96.5 FM, and popular singer Aliki. 
37. The Footprints Team meets quarterly to package each issue for mailout, and to plan future issues. As they are scattered all over Brisbane (and beyond!) this is no mean feat! 
38. Thank heavens for email! Not surprisingly, these days most Footprints business is carried out via email. 
39. Never seen a copy of Footprints? To receive a free trial copy, send an email with your postal address to editor@footprintsaustralia.com. (Sorry, offer open to Australian residents only). 
40. Holding a women’s event at your church? We are happy to provide free back issues (depending on availability) to add to your goodie bags! (NB. Priority given to subscribers requesting this service). 
41. Footprints Women’s Ministries became an incorporated association on 18 March 2010. 
42. The 50^th edition of Footprints was launched on Saturday 22 May 2010. 
43. We will be holding a picnic afternoon tea to celebrate our 50^th issue at 2pm on Saturday, 24 July in Brisbane. If you are interested in finding out more, or coming along, contact editor@footprintsaustralia.com. 
44. Currently we have about 430 subscribers to the Footprints magazine; 
45. and these subscribers come from every Australian state and territory, although approximately half are in our home state of Queensland.
46. We also have readers in Vanuatu, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Japan, and the USA. 
47. We have nearly 350 “fans” (or “likes” as they are now known!) on our Footprints Facebook page, which you can access at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Footprints-magazine-for-Australian-Christian-women/105081061840.  
48. Nobody makes any money out of Footprints; it’s always been a not-for-profit venture, run by volunteers. 
49. Each issue probably takes in excess of 100 hours to put together (and that’s a conservative estimate …). 
50. We are currently getting some new Footprints brochures designed and printed! If you would like us to send you some so that you can pass them around and hand them out to your friends, family and church, please contact editor@footprintsaustralia.com.

 So there you have it! Hopefully that will answer just about every question you could ever think to ask about Footprints … but just in case it doesn’t, we will shortly be going on a BLOG TOUR … more details to come!

I’m sure this comes as no surprise, but I believe passionately in the ministry of the written word, and what God can do with it …  But don’t take my word for it! I’ve compiled just some of my favourite letters, testimonies and readers’ comments received over the past twelve and a half years.

An outreach tool … 

“Even though I am not remotely religious, I enjoyed reading it very much.”

“I am not a religious person but if I keep reading Footprints, you might convert me!”

The unsaved workmate of a Footprints reader was so moved by an article she burst into tears as she read … (not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing! But I think it shows that God was touching her in a very real way.)

“Your magazine is a wonderful outreach tool, spreading God’s word in a special way to Australian women.”

“I take my copies to playgroup and they get devoured!”

Help for the Christian journey  …

“As a new Christian, I get very inspired by older Christans.”

“Your encouragement really helps me in my Christian walk.”

“It really fills my heart with praise when I read Footprints.”

“Footprints is a great REAL ‘let’s look at how we do the Christian life’, and women having a ‘heart to heart’ sharing magazine.”

Timely …

“There are always articles that touch me and meet me where I am, at that time.”

A reader told me about how she was speaking to another family whose teenage daughter suffers from depression. Apparently the only thing that stopped this girl from committing suicide a couple of weeks beforehand, was an article on Christians and depression in Footprints!

“Often when I’ve been going through a difficult period in my life, I have prayed for an answer and found one (or at least a guideline) in Footprints.”

Tackling real issues …

Footprints is able to cover topics that you may never hear about in a sermon at church. For example: honouring the pastor; how to know when it’s time to leave your church; even godly fashion tips!

“Each issue there is diversity and some very relevant articles that are not afraid to address certain issues.”

“The article on bipolar disorder was spot on timing.”

“Thank you for covering mental health issues like this one.”

“Thank you for raising awareness of disabilities.”

Putting it into Practise …

“My dear friend gave me a special gift, a subscription to Footprints. I did not realise just how precious her gift was until I read the article on forgiveness … a turning point … it is such a blessing to have this weight lifted … now I have peace.”

A youth home group leader told me her group was so inspired by an article on purity rings, that they held their own purity study and ceremony. They made their own rings, and took photos, made certificates, etc. The other youth home group leaders thought it was such a great idea they followed suit!

“After reading a review in Footprints, I bought the book – loved it and couldn’t put it down!”

Touching lives …

“So many articles struck a chord with me.”

“I found your website by accident – one of those God-incidences. It was such a blessing I’ve told others!”

A reader said that we really need to include tissues with each copy for “us weepy sensitive types”!

“Every time I read one of your magazines I feel peaceful.”

“My hubby reads them too!”

Helping the lonely …

Footprints has become a dear friend to many. We have had letters from readers who were lonely after moving; living in the outback; and missionaries overseas, who have all been comforted by Footprints.

“Footprints is a life raft for me,” wrote one young mum.

“Reading the magazines gives me the feeling that I am not alone in this world.”

“It’s nice to know that we can be connected with other Christian women in spirit.”

“I can see that there is a community of Christian women involved with your magazine who care.”

Reconnecting friends …

“I had an email from a lady I knew from a bible study group years ago. She saw the ad for my book in Footprints and emailed to congratulate me and catch up. It was lovely to reconnect and catch up on what God is doing in our lives.”

“Last issue I read an article by a lady whose name I recognised from almost 40 years ago (nursing training in the 60’s in Brisbane) … we have been able to renew our friendship by email!”

Keeping on keeping on!

A reader went to a session at the Brisbane Writers Festival on “small magazines” (as opposed to those backed by multi million dollar corporations) and learnt that sustainability was a definite challenge, regardless of readership target. “You and your team have just cause to celebrate 50 issues!” she wrote.

Just this week I got an email to say that Christian Woman magazine is no longer going to produce a print version, but only online, due to cost factors. Yet somehow Footprints continues …

“I see this magazine becoming huge.”

“I see your magazine as warm oil blessing everyone it touches.”

Seeing Answers to Prayer …

We have been invited to pray for various readers over the years – for family or relationship issues, depression, and infertility. Only God knows who has been touched as we pray, but I *do* know that there are even a couple of “Footprints babies” out there!

Training up new writers …

“I appreciate having a place for my writing …”

“It was such a thrill to see my work in print!”

“I love how you laid out my article.”

One of our writers even went on to win the Australian Young Christian Writer of the Year award!

So there you have it.  The readers have spoken – they love Footprints magazine! I just want to give God all the glory, and hope that you are as encouraged to read these testimonies, as I was as I put them together!

So here it is … our fabulous 50th issue!

It occurred to me on Saturday that not only was this our 50th issue, it was also the 50th Footprints meeting. That’s a lot of meetings!

Right from the beginning, Footprints meetings have been a lot of fun. What else can you expect when you get a bunch of gals together!

When we met at my home to launch the very first issue of Footprints, it was the first time that some of the girls had ever met. Although they all had the (dubious!) distinction of being friends of mine, this was their first opportunity to get to know each other. Melanie, Nicola, Vivian and I are the “original” team members, thankfully God has brought new members onto the team over the years because there is no way we could do it all on our own!  

So what happens at our quarterly Footprints meetings? We usually kick off with a cuppa and a chat – as we come from all over Brisbane, we often don’t get to see each other between meetings (thank heavens for email!), so there is a lot of catching up to do!

As the editor, I then crack the whip and start unpacking the boxes of magazines. Each girl grabs one, and I spend the next half an hour being very bored as they are all busy reading their new Footprints!!!

We package up the magazines for mail out, and then comes the “formalities” as we tackle the meeting agenda. There is a financial report, and usually some great testimonies or letters to share that readers have sent in; then it’s time to plan upcoming issues.  Last but definitely not least is our prayer time, then it’s potluck for dinner. Jenny spoilt us with homemade soup and Pauline made bacon and zucchini slice on Saturday … mmmm … in the early days we all used to pitch in a couple of dollars for pizza but I think we all prefer potluck these days. Thankfully, I am excused from bringing a plate to share as my contribution is to bring the magazines!

Our meetings usually start at 2pm and it can be well and truly dark by the time we finish … perhaps it’s just as well they only happen every three months! With everybody leading such busy lives, we are grateful for every pair of hands, even if it’s just for an hour or two. So there is a constant stream of people coming and going! Part of the fun is inviting others to join us.  This time it was our very great pleasure to have Cate join us. Cate was very enthusiastic and may just live to regret it … she went home having volunteered to do a truckload of work. Yep, that’s us Footprints gals, be careful what you let yourself in for! Cate has kindly offered to take on the job of completing our new brochure/subscription form, and designing letterhead, business cards, yada yada yada, as soon as the graphic designer has completed our new logo. 

Thankfully Cate has experience in running not-for-profits (as does Vivian), while Jenny is an accountant, so they helped us to get our heads around all the requirements (particularly financial) now we are incorporated. We will get there … eventually!

Nicola and Mel caught us up on their recent speaking gigs – Mel has done two ladies breakfasts recently, and Nicola arrived late to the meeting after spending the day with the ladies at the Inspire Conference in Caloundra, where she led two workshops. We have had quite a boost to our subscriptions lately thanks to their efforts! It was a very big day for Nicola in particular (I’m a poet and didn’t know it!) – while I think of it, please pray for her health, she has had quite a battle against chest infections over the past few weeks.

As we looked through the stash of articles ready for the next couple of issues, we noticed that the hardest column to fill of late is “God Answered My Prayer” so if you, or someone you know, has a great story, don’t be shy, send it in! It doesn’t matter if you’re not a confident or expert writer, we are only too happy to help you polish it up ready for publication. If it’s something a little bit different, so much the better … we have printed a lot of healing testimonies, and stories of God’s provision (houses, cars, food) over the years … why not surprise us with something a bit out of  the ordinary!

Kylie was kept busy as our scribe, taking the minutes – thanks Kylie, what would we do without you. I always look forward to reading the minutes in due course, although somehow I feel that I will have quite a few “actions” to do as a result! (More work!!!)

Now for the lull after the storm. The flurry of deadlines is past, and the  magazines have all been posted … until next time, that is.  Issue 51, here we come!

This week has been fairly momentous in the world of Footprints.  Allow me to introduce … Footprints Women’s Ministries Inc!  Don’t be too alarmed, it’s just a new name for an old friend. Let me explain:

Since January 1998, I have been producing Footprints magazine as a labour of love (with the support of my husband and family, and of course the Footprints Team) . I have always been motivated by my love for my Saviour God, and to tell other women about Him.

I didn’t know much about running a magazine, or a business, or whatever you wanted to call this new entity. I just knew that it was something that I had to do, and to start where I was at. If it was of God, He would bless it; if not, it would fade away. One of my favourite sayings is “out of a tiny acorn, a mighty oak tree grows”.

Twelve years and nearly 50 issues later, I think it would be fair to say that God has blessed it!  As I pondered and prayed over future direction, I realised we needed to set up structures and mechanisms to allow for future growth.

I have always been very careful to keep all Footprints funds completely separate from my own personal accounts. I knew that ultimately I would have to answer to God for what I did with the monies that came in to support Footprints. I appreciate the trust so many have put in me and the Team to use their money for the purpose of producing and distributing the Footprints magazine.

Registering Footprints is all about becoming more accountable to our readers. When we say we are a not-for-profit association, you can KNOW that this is the truth!

I have to admit I did give some thought to turning Footprints into a business. I would love nothing more than to quit my day job and make a living or even a profit from Footprints. But it just didn’t sit right with me. The original intent of Footprints was NOT to make a profit, but to benefit others. That hasn’t changed. (NB There are many Christian magazines out there that are run as a business. Please hear my heart, I am NOT saying that this is wrong! Just that this is not the path for Footprints).

So with the support of Footprints Team, we have taken the step of incorporating as a not-for-profit association. We chose the name “Footprints Women’s Ministries Inc” rather than “Footprints Magazine Inc” as we felt this best summed up our overall purpose. Yes, we produce a quarterly magazine … but we do more than that. We have a monthly ezine, two books, speakers for women’s events, a website, and who knows what the future may hold! Our new name needed to reflect that, and allow for possible expansion.

As an incorporated association, perhaps one day Footprints will be able to pay me a wage, which would allow me to give up my other job and concentrate on this ministry fulltime. But if that happens, it will be at the decision of the committee, and only when the ministry is able to sustain a paid position.

So allow me to introduce you to “Footprints Women’s Ministries Inc”  and our office bearers: myself (Janet Camilleri – surprise, surprise!) as President; Nicola Saad as Secretary; and Jenny Kalinowski as Treasurer.

All this, just in time for our 50th issue in May – seems a rather fitting way to celebrate don’t you think?!  

However as it turned out, I was one of the more experienced editors there! And now at least I have the certificate to prove that I am indeed an “Editor Extraordinaire” (as if 12 years in the role wasn’t convincing enough LOL).

Our trainers were top notch and included Mark Galli, Senior Managing Editor at “Christianity Today” from the USA; Estera Wieja, Managing Editor of “Nasze Inspiracje” (Our Inspirations) a Polish women’s magazine; and Terry White, who has founded three Christian magazines and taught journalism at colleges across the USA.

One of the highlights of the conference for me was hearing about everyone’s magazines, and their editing experiences. Some were from print publications, others ran online magazines (webzines); some had been publishing for years, while others will be launching shortly. It was fantastic to ask some of the curly questions that have been troubling me, and get ideas and suggestions from the group.

Attendees came from a range of countries and publications, including Japan (Japan Harvest); Philippines (Kopino Children & FEBC Friend – both newsletters for Christian organisations; Moms magazine; Rainy Days & Mom Days, a webzine); Korea (Young2080 QTzine); India (Campus Link); and the USA (Four Fold Gospel Witness).

I have come home with a lot of new ideas, skills and resources which will help to take Footprints to a whole new level, but I also have a renewed confidence in my abilities as an editor. I haven’t been doing too badly considering that I have been 100% self-taught up until now! One of the trainers couldn’t believe I did all the layout myself, she was so impressed – which was a lovely compliment and much appreciated. Writing (and editing) can be a lonely vocation at times … although we don’t do it for the “praise of men”, we can never under-estimate the power of a simple word of encouragement.

I’ll share some of the lessons I learnt in another blog post, but thought I would finish today with a “pearl of wisdom” from each of the conference trainers.

“Being an editor is a great spiritual discipline as it causes you to put others before yourself” – Mark Galli, Senior Managing Editor, Christianity Today.

“Don’t just write about things that are wrong – how can we make it right?” – Estera Wieja, Managing Editor, Nasze Inspiracje.

“Writing is good stewardship. One article may reach hundreds of people.” Terry White, BMH Books.

What the world needs is more “culturally appropriate publications – where God puts the vision into people’s hearts to publish and reach their own …” Sharon Mumper, Magazine Training International. (Which is exactly how Footprints came to be!)

Discouragement from within the body of Christ – When Footprints was brand new, we sought support from various church and denominational leaders. Sadly, we found that few caught our vision, and seemed to consider us a bunch of nobodies with nothing much to offer. “It’s been tried before and failed,” was just one of the more positive comments from a leader at that time! It would have been easier to understand if non-Christians had been critical, but to receive this sort of cynicism from our brothers and sisters in Christ was very difficult.

The Footprints camp – In the first couple of years of Footprints, we held a weekend retreat for our Team Members. It was such a special time of fellowship, encouragement and refreshment, that I really wanted to share it with all our readers and immediately started planning the first ever Footprints camp! I didn’t wait for God’s direction on the matter but just plunged into this exciting new idea. Not suprisingly, we only had about 3 ladies (besides our Team Members) interested in coming along so the idea had to be shelved. After promoting it so heavily, it was a little embarrassing to have to let people know it was cancelled!

Falling subscriber numbers – If I based my belief and motivation for doing Footprints purely on the number of people who take out subscriptions, I would have chucked it in a long time ago! Within the first two years we soared to nearly 250 subscribers which was tremendously exciting; however slowly it trickled off and there were times when we barely cracked the 100 mark. It was a time to trust in God and re-examine my motives for doing Footprints, as well as re-defining what “success” looked like. God clearly showed me that it was NOT a numbers game, and I came to realise that this was indeed my calling, regardless of whether we had 20 subscribers or 200. The most subscribers we have ever had was just over 450; today we have around 400. (Personally, I’d really love to crack that magic “500″ mark!)  But no matter what the subscriber numbers say, I know that God is continuing to bless women across Australia and beyond through the pages of Footprints!

Lack of funds – There have been times when our bank account has been almost non-existent. Yet every time, God has come through and provided. We praise God and pray blessings upon each and every one of our subscribers, as well as those who donate to this ministry!

Content that aroused discontent – Unfortunately I’m not perfect, and over the years have made some errors in judgement about the material which has appeared in Footprints. Some of the pieces which attracted criticism included a “funny” that gave 3 reasons why Jesus could be Jewish, black, or a woman; and a poem about “Horror-Scopes” which was very tongue in cheek, yet some readers missed the point and thought we were condoning astrology. More recently, some readers misunderstood the article on using prayer beads to enhance your prayer life.

So as you can see it has NOT all been plain sailing on the good ship “Footprints” … but still we have endured. I’m reminded of a Scripture: For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God (from Acts 5: 38 & 39, NIV).

And so began the Footprints journey … and what a journey it’s been. Twelve years ago, I knew very little about running a ministry, let alone putting a magazine together, writing articles, databases, advertising and promotion, webpages – I didn’t even have internet access!

It feels like my Father God himself has taken me under His wing and personally groomed me for my calling, and opened doors to things I would never have dreamed possible … there are so many examples …

Example 1: Writing. Even though I have no experience or formal qualifications in writing or journalism, over the past 12 years I have had over 50 articles published in magazines such as Caravan & Motorhome, For Me, Gold Coast Weddings, Take 5, That’s Life, Grass Roots, Australasian Poultry, Writing Australia, The Evangel Now, First Priority Now, Signs of the Times, Christian Woman, Above Rubies and many others, plus my work has appeared on website and in half a dozen anthologies. I even got paid for my writing! This has not only been a blessing especially during the days when I was a stay-at-home mum, but some of which I have been able to sow back into the Footprints ministry.

Example 2: Training. Along the line I have picked up skills in numerous computer programs, mostly from hands-on experience, but also through my workplace – back in 2002 as I was re-entering the workforce, God blessed me with a temporary office job which povided free training in designing and uploading webpages! Right now, I am hugely excited about going to a Christian Editor’s & Writer’s Conference in Manila at the end of September – a wonderful opportunity to learn how to work more efficiently and effectively in the Footprints ministries, plus make some great contacts!

Example 3: Equipment. Back when Footprints started, the only equipment I had was a computer which even then was ‘out of the ark’ (no offence Noah!). But along the way, God has always provided the equipment that was needed – new computers, scanner, printers, internet access … which may not seem like much now, but as a single income family it truly was a miracle!

Example 4: Writing & publishing books. It was mostly thanks to my local library that I was able to read and learn these skills, which resulted in the first two Footprints books: Clues to your Calling in 2003, and DECADENCE: treat yourself to 10 years of Footprints in 2008.

Example 5: The people! The original Footprints Team has grown from half a dozen of my friends and relatives, to over a dozen helpers and supporters from all over Australia and beyond. It’s been amazing – as we’ve grown, the right people just seem to have come along our path! When we got our new flashy colour cover, I met a photographer who wanted to provide the pictures for our covers … when the website got too much, God provided a web editor. We have a lovely couple who host our website for free, and now have our first state rep all the way from WA! Some just help with the packaging and mailout of each issue, others write lots of articles, others send donations, but all share a passion and enthusiasm for what God is doing through Footprints!

Example 6: The readers. By the launch of our second issue, I was tremendously touched that 25 people had paid for annual subscriptions to our magazine. Today, there are hundreds from all over Australia, New Zealand and beyond!

In the early days, I dreamed of Footprints being a blessing to women in the outback – and that has happened! These are women who live on huge properties, and are very isolated … one lady who gets Footprints told me that the nearest church is 2 hours drive away! We also have church groups who send Footprints to their missionaries overseas, and we hear that they just love the feminine fellowship and contact with home. Even though Footprints is aimed at women, I have had several ladies tell me that they have troubled getting their copy off their husbands so that they can actually read it!

Although I don’t do Footprints for man’s praise or glory, I am human enough to acknowledge that it can be a tremendous encouragement. I never cease to be thrilled when somebody takes out a subscription, or writes to say how a particular article or story has impacted or helped them.

Perhaps the most memorable feedback was about a story I wrote about my own personal struggle with depression. It was actually a couple of years AFTER this article had been printed, that I heard that a young woman read it who was at the point of suicide … and that article was the ONLY THING that stopped her from taking her own life.

Footprints has even led to the job that I have today! I work four days per week, to produce 3 community newsletters. At the interview, I was asked if I had ever created newsletters before. I was able to hold up a copy of Footprints and say proudly, YES! Here’s one I prepared earlier! Needless to say I got the job!

This year has seen Footprints step up to a whole new level. This issue (#47) is the first to be fully professionally printed (as opposed to photocopied), and we are currently investigating an advertising policy that can can help us to help others promote their ministries and businesses, while helping Footprints to fund new projects and goals.

Next May will see the launch of our 50th issue! What a milestone and achievement, and one that many never thought possible.

So what lies ahead for Footprints? We are constantly seeking to improve and grow. Maybe one day you will find us in the newsagent, printed in full colour. My dream is to one day quit my day job and work on Footprints full time. In the meantime however, I’m happy to keep doing what we do best – which is encouraging and inspiring our readers.