I started preparations the night before by baking my signature rum cake, black velvet cupcakes, and the ever addictive oatmeal lace cookies. January 5th wasn’t just the date of my release party, it was also my birthday. And as my gift to the attendants, I wanted to share my baking, another one of my talents and favorite hobbies.
About mid afternoon, the day of, my roommate and I headed to The Purple Buffalo to set up. We were met there with White Willow Trading Co. (@whitewillowtradingcomapny) and Lowcountry Harvest(@lowcountryharvest), two wonderful and talented vendors. As well as my friend and DJ, Sam of DreamDay Charleston (@dreamdaycharleston).
Once we were set up, I anxiously watched the clock. 7:00P couldn’t get there fast enough.
Guests arrived at 7:00P sharp and continued to come in through the rest of the night. To say I was overwhelmed by the amount of people that showed up is an understatement. I was excited. I was humbled. I was so thankful. And I still am. I still feel as if I am on cloud nine from that night.
I can still hear the incredible playlist DreamDay was spinning. (Which is by far the best music I have ever heard in my life. Tops every party and every club I’ve experienced.) I can still feel the love and support from every single person. By the end of the night, I sold out of every single book I had brought with me. January 5, 2023, is a day I will never forget.
The release event was sponsored by Fleet Landing and Savannah Bee Company, who were generous enough to donate to the giveaway I ran at the end of the night which included: Signed copies of After the Bees and Through High Waters, all character art/cards, character bookmarks, as well as a custom bookmark by local artist Address (@andresspotiart), an ozien necklace, a tea kit, SBC honey, and a turves and $100 gift card to FL.
Through High Waters is the second installment to the Revelation series where demons have possessed the earth and one woman fights for survival amongst their horrors. And before you ask, yes, there is more to come. I am currently working on the prequel as well as Leah’s third book. I’ve always loved the idea of angels and feel their story is far from over.
Thank you dear readers, family, and friends, for your continued love and support. I truly cannot express what you mean to me. It is because of you that my dream has become a reality. And I know this is just the beginning. I look forward to sharing more stories and adventures with you.
All photos were shot by the talented and beautiful Tara Leigh (@tara_leigh_photography).
