Let’s hear it for Kansas City! When I got into the car at the airport in Missouri, Aimeé told me that AGKC tries to have the best author events. She didn’t disappoint! Tracey drove us over to the store (technically in Kansas) and told me the best news ever — since the store doesn’t have a bistro, we were ordering in lunch from Oklahoma Joe’s. It just so happens that Anthony Bourdain thinks it’s the best BBQ on the planet and it’s listed as one of his 13 places to eat before you die in a guest article he wrote for Men’s Health. I’ve now eaten at three restaurants on his list. Ten more to go!
Before lunch, I did an informal meet-and-greet with the staff. I had a ton of fun chatting with some of the younger ladies like Kaleigh and Toni who were interested in what it’s like to work at American Girl. We had a good time discussing social media and writing and networking and the like. Then it was time to pig out on Oklahoma Joe’s. It was so good that I didn’t even get a picture. That’s saying a lot.
Finally, it was time for the event. I signed my name more than 100 times in the two hours I was there! What the AGKC store lacks in size it makes up in spirit. They themed the event to my Slumber Wonders book and even had name tags for customers, which was pulled from the Sweet Soiree party. Fun! I still can’t get over how trendy and cute all the girls are who stop by. I also had a first — two little boys hopped in line. One wanted me to sign his bookmark and address it to “Sonic” because he really likes Sonic the Hedgehog. Nice. After we took a group pic, the staff gave me one of their cute fleece topiaries (kind of pictured above) as a gift! They made it themselves for the event. They — meaning the staff as well — are so cute! Thanks to everyone in Kansas City for making the event extra special!
P.S. The ladies in Kansas City were nice enough to point out that the Bored No More Quiz Book has been turned into a mini book. It comes with the Dreamy Nightstand Set for dolls. ADORABLE!!!!
Aubre Andrus is a freelance writer in Chicago who specializes in copywriting, blogging, reporting, and social media consulting. View her website and portfolio at www.aubreandrus.com or find her on Twitter @aubreandrus.