Real Life Marketing

A friend of mine gave me a gift certificate to my local bookstore for my birthday. What could be better? I had a book or two in mind. I wanted the new Murakami because I have a thing for that kind of magical realism. After collecting the book from the table display, I went to the Staff Recommendation section located near the door to the shop. As I was scanning the shelf a man came in and tapped me on the shoulder. He said, “You should buy that book.” The book was Everywhere An Oink Oink: An Embittered, Dyspectic, and Accurate Report of 40 Years in Hollywood by David Mamet. I turned to see who it was that would recommend a book to a stranger.

“David,” I said. Our kids had gone to elementary school together. “You should sign all the books they have in the store. That way they can’t be returned.”

“People return books?” he asked. The man behind the counter mouthed to me, “Have him sign the books.”

“Yes, all the time.” He looked at the man behind the counter, who said, “Well, not yours, of course.”

“If I buy your book, will you sign it?” He did. Not more than a few seconds later a couple of other people came up to him and asked him to sign their books. Needless to say, he was thrilled.

That is how real-life marketing works. If he can do it, so can you. Tell one person about your writing today.

---

Betty and the Bar Owner (a continuing story)

By Liz Dubelman

Betty couldn't shake Mary's words from her mind as she walked back to her apartment that evening.

"Life is too short to spend it all alone with just your pickles and classes, Betty. Embrace the new possibilities that come your way, whether it's in business or... pleasure."

The cool breeze of the evening seemed to carry with it a sense of change, of possibility. She unlocked the door and stepped into her kitchen, the familiar scent of pickles welcoming her home.

As she looked around at the jars lining the shelves, Betty realized that her life had become a routine, a cycle of pickling and teaching that had kept her safe but stagnant. The encounter at the farmers market, the taste of success, and Mary's wise words all swirled in her mind, stirring something deep within her.

Betty made a decision in that moment - she was going to step out of her comfort zone, embrace the unknown, and allow herself to explore what else life had to offer.

She had hope again. She might just get herself out of this painful financial situation. The bar offer was just the beginning; there were endless possibilities waiting for her beyond the confines of her small kitchen.

Excited by the prospect of new opportunities and experiences, Betty dove headfirst into expanding her pickle business. With the partnership with Mary secured, she began experimenting with different pickle flavors and variations to cater to their clientele's tastes. Word of her unique pickle and kale chip combo spread quickly, and soon other businesses were reaching out to feature her products.

As her business grew, so did Betty's confidence and sense of independence. She found herself enjoying the hustle and bustle of the entrepreneurial world, relishing in the freedom and creativity it allowed her. No longer defined solely by her past mistakes or financial struggles, Betty was carving out a new identity for herself as a successful businesswoman.

But amidst the whirlwind of success, there was a nagging thought in the back of her mind - Mary's words about embracing pleasure lingered in her mind. She couldn't deny the longing for companionship and connection that had been so buried of late under layers of brine and vinegar.

One evening, as Betty closed up her booth at the farmers market, she caught a glimpse of a familiar face in the crowd. It was the young man from the downtown bar, his warm smile drawing her in like a magnet. Without hesitation, he walked over to her, a glint of excitement in his eyes.

"Betty, I'm glad I caught you before you left. The feedback on your pickles and kale chips at the bar has been phenomenal. Customers can't get enough of them," he said enthusiastically.

Betty felt a rush of pride and satisfaction at his words. She had worked hard to create a product that people loved, and seeing it pay off filled her with a sense of accomplishment.

"I'm so glad to hear that! Thank you for giving me this opportunity," Betty replied, a genuine smile gracing her features.

The young man hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "Listen, I know this might be forward, but would you be interested in grabbing a cup of coffee?”

Mary looked over at her friend with a “go for it but be careful look.” Betty had been lucky with pickles but unlucky in love.

They strolled down the street, their steps in sync as they made their way to a cozy coffee shop. Betty couldn't help but feel at ease with him, his warm smile and genuine curiosity about her life made her feel special. They sat at a small table by the window, sipping on steaming mugs of coffee and exchanging stories and laughter. Time seemed to slip away in their comfortable conversation, lost in a haze of shared hopes and dreams for the future.

Before parting ways, the young man extended a tentative offer. "Would you like to go out for dinner sometime? I know this great little restaurant that serves amazing pickled dishes..."

Betty laughed like a schoolgirl.