I have a book being launched in another state to where I live, at a conference, however after a recent email from an associate in my city asking for an invitation it occurs to me I really need to do something local too – so my family, friends, associates, colleagues, clients and others can attend. This has the potential of growing big if I’m not careful and I don’t want to be paying out huge dollars.

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Jay’s Answer: Are your friends, family, etc. simply wanting to see you “in-action”? If so, if you could record (or even, web-cast) the party, then they can feel a part of it.

If you’re trying to fill seats with friendly faces, be careful to limit it to people who can actually help your business. For example, people that understand what your book is about. Perhaps even provide some questions to your friends to ask should things be quiet.

Your friends & family may also want to help. Ask them to provide snacks/finger-food. Ask them to help you find an appropriate venue.

Lastly, given your book topic, contact local mothers groups in Melbourne. This would be a win-win: they would be interested in the topic, would love to help you succeed, would be great to get support from, and perhaps have a meeting space that they could provide (in exchange for free attendance by their members).