Hey there! I’m Crystal – your content marketing strategist and travel author. I say “travel author” now because I don’t just blog about my travels anymore, I have actual books about my adventures! I’m the creator of Dates in the States, a travel-inspired date night guidebook series for those who want to explore their city outside the box.
Today I’m going to show you how I get my books into stores like small independent bookstores, boutiques, gift shops, coffee shops, you name it, and how you can do it too with just a single pitch.
Step 1: Identify Your Targets
My city date books actually grew out of my travel blog, Dates in the States. Each book focuses on a different neighborhood in a different state and maps out a perfect date from start to finish where to grab a bite, what to do next, and how to make the whole day feel special. My husband helps me bring these dates to life he’s the idealist, I’m the creator and we actually test each date before it ever makes it into a book.
Right now, we have books in New York, Florida, and Tennessee, and we’re slowly branching out to other states. Because of that, I have a wide variety of stores I can pitch to but your ideal targets might be different depending on your book. The key is to find places where your book naturally fits the vibe and interests of their customers.
- Independent bookstores
- Gift shops
- Boutiques that sell local, artisan, or couple-themed goods
- Coffee shops with a retail section
- Visitor centers or tourism shops
I like to specifically pitch to the businesses that I write about in my books, like the coffee shops, bars, restaurants to see if they want to carry my books as well, and I get really good responses from that.
So, think about where your ideal reader might already shop or hang out. If it’s a book about local adventures, shops that showcase local art or gifts are a perfect match. But I know it’s different for everyone, so give yourself some time to think and test out different markets because you just never know.
Step 2: Reach Out Professionally (or Casually)
Email is usually best, especially if you want to send a media kit or a sample. But if you can’t find an email, social media can work like Facebook Messenger, Instagram DMs, whatever the store is active on.
Here’s a pitch I use for stores:
Hello! My name is Crystal, and I’m the creator of Dates in the States — a travel-inspired date night guidebook series for couples who love exploring local gems. Our books are filled with unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences and make perfect gifts.
I’m currently looking to partner with independent bookstores and boutiques like yours to carry our titles. I’d love to share more about the books and discuss how we could work together — whether it’s through wholesale or consignment.
If you’re open to it, I’d be happy to send over a sample or chat more about what makes Dates in the States a fun fit for your customers.
Thanks so much, Crystal
Step 3: Follow Up, But Don’t Overdo It
- If you don’t hear back in 3–5 business days, send a polite follow-up.
- If they still don’t respond, move on. There are plenty of other stores to pitch.
- Track everything in a spreadsheet so you know who you’ve contacted, who responded, and what type of partnership they’re interested in.
Step 4: Know Your Options
Stores might want different arrangements:
- Consignment: the store sells your books, and you get a percentage of the sales.
- Wholesale: the store buys your books outright.
Most small, local bookstores prefer consignment, but some larger chains like Barnes & Noble can vary. My experience: Some B&Ns approached me at a book fair, others required forms or online applications. The key is persistence and flexibility.
Step 5: Build Relationships
This isn’t just a one-off sale, it’s a chance to build long-term connections:
- Visit stores in person if possible
- Bring books, leave bookmarks, or promotional materials
- Keep in touch, share events or promotions
Over time, these relationships grow, and more stores will want to carry your titles.
Closing / Call to Action
Remember: your pitch can be short, friendly, and professional. Don’t get discouraged if one store says no, the right fit is out there, and your book deserves to be on shelves where readers will love it.
If you’re a fellow author looking to get your books into local shops, start pitching today! Trust me, it works.
Happy pitching!
