IngramSpark
More involved than KDP but so very worth it. The book quality is far better (vibrant colours, velvety feel to the matte cover, consistent printing, no annoying French Groove), and they also have a printer in Australia. They make your book accessible globally (in print and as an ebook (and on Amazon, if you still so wish)), and have been perfect for ordering author copies on an as-needed basis at a more affordable cost. I spent $75 upfront to back in 2022, but joining has been free for some time now.
self-publishing your writing
I published my first poetry collection at 23 and it was the best thing I ever did (and at the time, also the hardest). The narrative that self-publishing is easy as uploading your work to Amazon and watching it sell omits the fun [chaos] of researching the publishing market, looking for comparative titles, figuring out cover trends, positioning your title in the existing book ecosystem, finding and working with an editor, setting up a business number, making a website, promoting on social media, organising a book launch event, etc. etc. I remember being SO overwhelmed. But when that first box of books arrived? And I got to read my poems to a small but honest crowd of readers? Two of the best moments in my life. Self-publishing opened doors for me that would have taken a lot more kicking otherwise, and it left me with valuable knowledge and skills that continue to serve me well. All this to say, if you’re considering self-publishing: do it. If this lil poet can, so can you <3
Born Wax Seal Stamp Heart
Are you even mailing a poetry collection if it isn’t wrapped in craft paper, tangled in jute twine, and wax sealed with love?
merit beauty card case
i have a very sleek merit beauty card wallet that came for free with a makeup purchase. i do wish it was “thicker” so it could hold a few more cards (and some notes), but i really love it. small, unexpected, classy.
