Conference organizers are looking for a variety of workshops and sessions that are not only fun and interesting but also practical, inclusive, and engaging. Whether you want to lead a craft-focused workshop, participate on a panel with other experts, organize a networking event, or host a discussion group, we encourage you to bring your ideas to the table.

You’re welcome and encouraged to submit more than one proposal.

 

Workshop and Session Options

• Workshops – Traditional presentations designed to teach skills, share resources, or explore writing and publishing strategies.

• Sessions – Interactive, informal gatherings or panel presentations focused on community-building, brainstorming, writing sprints, critiques, and/or networking activities.

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Suggested topics are based on survey feedback and previous conference favorites:

• Craft: Scene structure, editing and revision, story, plotting, tropes, genre, pacing, character, world building, pacing, setting, dialogue, point of view, stakes, conflict, research

• The Business of Publishing: Indie vs. traditional vs. hybrid, wide vs. KU, production schedules, hiring help, maximizing your IP, synopsis writing, query letters, collaborations, mindset and sustainability, trends, planning

• Marketing: promotions, social media, newsletter, advertising, branding, platform, publicity, release vs. backlist, working with ARC and beta readers, reader events

• Community and Networking: Group discussions, genre meetups, critique circles, accountability groups, writing sprints, brainstorming games, themed social events

 

Got something new and creative in mind? We want to hear it!

 

Key Details:

• Submissions close May 1, 2026.

• All presenters will be notified by July 1, 2026.

• Conference dates: October 15-17th, 2026

• Conference location: Crowne Plaza Atlanta NE - Norcross, GA

• Presenters will receive a $50 honorarium and are responsible for covering their own conference registration, travel and lodging expenses.

 

Thank You!

We’re excited to hear your ideas and look forward to the value you’ll bring to the 2026 Moonlight and Magnolias Conference.

 

For questions or assistance, please contact the Workshop Coordinators: Alexis Cole  authoralexiskole@gmail.com or Karen White karen@karengrey.com. If you’re interested in volunteering with the Workshop Coordinator team, we’d love to hear from you, too!