When I first decided to venture into the world of independent publishing, I knew absolutely nothing. My ignorance was bliss, of course, so I didn't realize the disaster I would create for myself later. Thankfully as I learned more by putting myself into rooms with people that were smarter than me, I started to ask myself the right question. I needed to relaunch and republish. I wanted to make MONEY, not just receive praise for my creativity. Validation wasn't paying the bills.  First thing first was writing a business plan. The idea of writing a business plan seemed daunting. I was a writer, not a business strategist, right? But as I dug deeper, I realized that having a solid business plan was essential, not just for keeping me on track but also for helping me achieve my goals in this competitive industry. I’ll walk you through the steps I took to create my business plan and share some tips that might help you on your self-publishing journey.

1. Define Your Goals
The first step I took was to clearly define my goals. Why did I want to write and self-publish? Was it to share a story that’s close to my heart, to earn a living from my writing, or to build a long-term career as an author? For me, it was a mix of all three. Knowing what I wanted to achieve helped me shape the rest of my business plan.

Tip: Be honest with yourself about your goals. Whether you’re aiming for commercial success or simply want to see your book in print, your goals will guide your decisions throughout the process.

2. Research the Market
Once I had my goals in mind, I started researching the market. I needed to know what other authors in my genre were doing, how successful they were, and what strategies they were using. This involved reading books, attending webinars, and joining author communities. The information I gathered helped me understand my target audience and the competition.

Tip: Don't skip the research phase. The more you know about the market, the better prepared you’ll be to position your book for success.

3. Identify Your Target Audience
With my research in hand, I turned my focus to identifying my target audience. Who were the readers most likely to enjoy my book? Understanding my audience’s preferences, habits, and expectations was crucial. I created a reader persona that included details like age, interests, reading habits, and favorite authors.

Tip: The more specific you can be about your target audience, the better. This will help you tailor your marketing efforts and increase the chances of reaching the right readers.

4. Develop a Budget
Next, I worked on developing a budget. Self-publishing involves various costs, from editing and cover design to marketing and distribution. I had to decide how much I was willing to invest in each area and where I might need to cut costs. I also considered my potential earnings and how long it might take to break even.

Tip: Be realistic about your budget. It’s easy to overspend, especially when you’re passionate about your book, but remember that this is a business venture. Keep track of every expense to avoid financial surprises later on.

5. Plan Your Marketing Strategy
Marketing was the area where I felt the least confident, so I spent a lot of time developing my strategy. I considered various channels, including social media, email newsletters, book bloggers, and paid advertising. I also looked into book launches, author events, and online book tours. My goal was to build a buzz around my book before and after its release.

Tip: Start marketing your book early, even before it’s finished. Building an author platform and engaging with potential readers can make a big difference in your book’s success.

6. Set Milestones and Deadlines
To keep myself on track, I set clear milestones and deadlines. I broke down the entire process, from writing and editing to publishing and marketing, into manageable steps. Having deadlines helped me stay focused and avoid procrastination.

Tip: Accountability is key. Whether it’s self-imposed deadlines or sharing your goals with a writing group, find a way to hold yourself accountable.

7. Review and Adjust
Finally, I made it a point to regularly review and adjust my business plan. As I progressed, I learned more about the industry and my own strengths and weaknesses. I made adjustments to my plan to reflect these insights and to stay flexible in a rapidly changing market.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to make changes to your plan. Flexibility is important, especially in the unpredictable world of publishing. Stay open to new opportunities and be willing to pivot if necessary.

Writing a business plan as an independent author was one of the most empowering steps I took on my self-publishing journey. It gave me clarity, direction, and confidence. If you’re considering self-publishing, I encourage you to take the time to create a business plan tailored to your goals and resources. It’s a roadmap that will guide you through the challenges and help you turn your passion for writing into a successful career.

Happy writing!

P.S. I'll give you an outline:

1. Executive Summary

• Overview: A brief introduction to your business plan, summarizing your objectives and what you hope to achieve.
• Author Bio: A short biography highlighting your experience, writing background, and any relevant qualifications.

2. Goals and Objectives

• Short-Term Goals: What you want to achieve in the next year, such as completing your book, launching it, and reaching a certain number of sales.
• Long-Term Goals: Your vision for the next 3-5 years, including building a fan base, writing multiple books, or earning a specific income from your writing.

3. Market Analysis

• Target Audience: Detailed descriptions of your ideal readers, including demographics, interests, and reading habits.
• Genre and Niche: Analysis of your book’s genre, trends within the genre, and where your book fits in.
• Competition: A look at other authors and books in your genre, identifying what makes your book unique and how you can compete.

4. Marketing and Sales Strategy

• Branding: How you’ll develop your author brand, including your online presence, author website, and social media profiles.
• Marketing Plan: The strategies you'll use to promote your book, such as email marketing, social media campaigns, book trailers, blog tours, and book signings.
• Sales Channels: Where and how you’ll sell your book, including online retailers (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc.), your own website, and physical bookstores.

5. Book Production Plan

• Writing and Editing: Timeline for completing the manuscript, hiring editors, and revising your work.
• Cover Design and Formatting: How you plan to create a professional cover and format your book for print and eBook versions.
• Printing and Distribution: Options for printing physical copies (e.g., Print on Demand) and distributing eBooks.

6. Budget and Financial Plan

• Expenses: A detailed list of expected costs, including editing, cover design, formatting, marketing, and distribution.
• Revenue Projections: How much you expect to earn, including sales forecasts for different formats (eBook, paperback, audiobook).
• Break-Even Analysis: How many books you need to sell to cover your expenses and start making a profit.
• Funding: Any initial investments or loans you might need, and how you plan to finance your project.

7. Timeline and Milestones

• Project Timeline: A schedule outlining when each phase of the book production, marketing, and sales will take place.
• Milestones: Key achievements, such as completing the manuscript, launching a website, or reaching a sales target.

8. Risk Analysis

• Potential Risks: Identify risks like market saturation, financial shortfalls, or delays in production, and how you plan to mitigate them.
• Contingency Plan: What you’ll do if things don’t go as planned, including backup strategies for marketing or sales.

9. Legal Considerations

• Copyright: How you’ll protect your work, including registering your copyright.
• Contracts: Any contracts you might need with editors, designers, or distributors.
• Tax Considerations: Understanding your tax obligations as a self-published author, including keeping track of earnings and expenses.

10. Appendices

• Supporting Documents: Include any additional materials, such as sample marketing materials, contracts, detailed budget spreadsheets, or excerpts from your manuscript.

HAPPY LOC ANNIVERARY TO MEEEEE. CELEBRATED TWO DAYS AGO AND IM STILL IN AWE OF MYSELF AND MY HAIR.

Something magical happened on 7/31/2020. For the first time ever, I experienced what it was like to be in true partnership with someone--MYSELF.
The pandemic brought many unexpected challenges, but for me, it also brought a beautiful transformation. I decided to start locing my hair.  I wanted to do it after graduation high school but something in me wasn't ready for the level of care of commitment it would take to maintain locs. I also had not fully prepared for the spiritual commitment, awakening, and attachment.

Weeks prior to the 31st I started with coils, and I absolutely hated my hair, so I combed them out. I needed to change my mind set for this commitment and the first thing was vanity, this idea that I needed to look good or be presentable constantly. I watched 100s of YouTube videos, listening to journey after journey. Finally, I was ready. I did it and I stuck it out this time. 

As the weeks turned into months, I found myself falling in love with my locs and the journey of learning how to care for them.
Discovering the Art of Locs I spent countless hours now watching YouTube tutorials, joining online forums, and experimenting with different techniques. The process was sometimes frustrating, but it was also incredibly rewarding. Each twist, each palm roll, and each new growth brought me a sense of accomplishment. I learned the importance of patience, consistency, and the right products. My locs became a symbol of resilience and self-care during a time of uncertainty.

Extending the Journey to others as my confidence grew, so did my desire to share what I had learned. Friends and family began noticing my locs and asking for advice. I was always happy to oblige. Now I maintain and style other people's hair--sometimes for fun, sometimes for more practice, and even sometimes for money. If you are hesitant to start your locs, JUST GO AHEAD AND DO IT NOW. You won't regret it. Since having locs I have transformed as a human. 

One of the first things I learned when I started my loc journey was patience. Locs don't form overnight. They go through stages—some messier than others—and require time to mature. In the beginning, I was eager to see them fully formed, but I quickly realized that this process couldn't be rushed. Just like anything meaningful in life, locs take time to develop. This taught me to be patient not just with my hair but with myself and the things I want to achieve.

My locs have gone through so many changes since I first started. They’ve grown, thickened, and taken on a life of their own. At first, I was nervous about how they would turn out, but as time passed, I learned to embrace the changes. It made me realize that change is a natural part of life. Just like my locs, I too am evolving. Instead of resisting, I've learned to go with the flow and trust the process.

When you have locs, especially in the early stages, there's a tendency to want them to look perfect all the time. I used to be obsessed with every stray hair and every bump. But locs are inherently imperfect, and that’s what makes them beautiful. They’ve taught me to let go of the need for perfection—not just in my hair but in all aspects of life. It's okay for things to be a little messy, a little out of place. That’s where authenticity lives.

Having locs has forced me to confront my own insecurities. Locs are bold and noticeable, and they challenge societal beauty standards. Wearing them means standing out and, sometimes, being subject to judgment or misunderstanding. Through this, I’ve learned to stand firm in my choices and accept myself fully. My locs are an extension of who I am, and embracing them has helped me embrace my true self.

Locs require regular maintenance, and over time, this routine has become an act of self-care. Washing, twisting, and nourishing my locs isn't just about keeping them healthy; it's about taking time for myself. It’s become a ritual that reminds me of the importance of caring for my mind, body, and spirit. This routine has taught me that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

One unexpected benefit of having locs has been the sense of community it has brought me. Locs are more than just a hairstyle; they’re a cultural and spiritual symbol for many people. I’ve connected with others who share similar experiences, and these connections have enriched my life. I’ve learned the value of community and the importance of sharing our stories and supporting one another.

Lastly, having locs has given me a sense of confidence I didn’t know I needed. They’re a statement of individuality and a celebration of my uniqueness. Through this journey, I’ve learned to take pride in what makes me different, to walk with my head held high, and to embrace the fact that I’m not like everyone else—and that’s a good thing.
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In the end, my locs have been more than just a hairstyle. They’ve been a teacher, guiding me through lessons of patience, self-acceptance, and personal growth. I’ve come to see them as a symbol of my journey—a journey that’s still unfolding, just like my locs. And as I continue to grow, so do they, reminding me that life is about the process, not just the destination.

First off, I am now adding wedding planner to my resume. I have a newfound respect for that profession after FOUR months of rapid planning. It's no secret that I have been married and divorced. The shame surrounding that poor first trial has finally subsided in my body. Funny thing is that my current partner, like me, never wanted to be married. It wasn't legal l at the time she was in a long-term situation and she's grateful. For me, well... long story. The short version is that it happened, and it was quickly processed at the courthouse.

When we sat down and made the decision to do this because we could not fathom being unmarried (only to one another), she straight up said to me we were at some point going to have a ceremony. She wanted my mom and sister included as they were excluded the first time. She wanted what we shared to be treated differently. 

When my partner and I first started planning our wedding, we quickly realized that the traditional big wedding wasn't quite our style. We wanted something intimate, meaningful, and reflective of our unique journey as a queer couple. I did a bit of research, and the term 'micro wedding' flooded my screen. 

This was the opportunity to create an intimate atmosphere. With fewer guests, we were able to focus on the people who mean the most to us—our closest family and friends. This allowed us to share our day with those who have been part of our journey, supporting and loving us unconditionally. 

The smaller guest list meant that we could spend quality time with each guest. At larger weddings, it’s easy for the couple to get swept up in the whirlwind of events and barely have a moment to breathe, let alone connect with everyone. We wanted to be fully present with each person there, sharing laughs, memories, and heartfelt conversations.

For us, a micro wedding also meant staying true to ourselves. Traditional weddings often come with expectations and norms that might not align with every couple’s vision. As a lesbian couple, we wanted to break away from any conventions that didn’t resonate with us. A smaller wedding gave us the freedom to create a ceremony and celebration that truly reflected our personalities and relationship.

We personalized every aspect of our wedding, from writing our own vows to choosing a non-traditional venue that held special meaning for us. The focus was on our love and commitment, rather than on grand displays or formalities. This authenticity was incredibly important to us.

Weddings can also be expensive, and we wanted to ensure that we were spending our money on things that truly mattered to us. A micro wedding allowed us to prioritize our budget. We could invest in quality over quantity. We splurged on a beautiful location, food, and a fantastic photographer who captured every precious moment.

This approach meant we didn't have to stress over a massive budget or feel pressured to invite distant relatives and acquaintances just to fill a large venue. Every penny spent was for something that added genuine value to our day.

Wedding planning can be notoriously stressful, but opting for a micro wedding significantly reduced our stress levels. Coordinating a smaller event meant fewer logistics, less pressure, and more room for creativity. We had the time and energy to focus on the details that mattered to us, making the planning process enjoyable rather than overwhelming.

By keeping things simple, we also minimized the chances of things going wrong. There were fewer moving parts, which meant we could relax and enjoy our wedding day without constantly worrying about what might go awry.

As a lesbian couple, creating a comfortable and inclusive environment for our wedding was crucial. We wanted our guests to feel at ease and for the celebration to reflect our values. A micro wedding allowed us to carefully curate the guest list, ensuring that everyone in attendance was supportive and accepting of our relationship.

This smaller, more intimate setting made it easier for us to foster an atmosphere of love and acceptance. We felt free to express ourselves fully, knowing we were surrounded by people who genuinely cared for us and celebrated our union.

Ultimately, our decision to have a micro wedding was about creating lasting memories. We wanted our wedding day to be a reflection of our love story, filled with personal touches and meaningful moments. The intimacy of a micro wedding allowed us to savor each moment, from the ceremony to the reception, and to look back on our special day with nothing but fondness and joy.

Choosing a micro wedding was one of the best decisions we made as a couple. It allowed us to celebrate our love in a way that felt authentic, intimate, and stress-free (sort-of). For any couple, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, considering a micro wedding can be a beautiful way to honor your relationship and create a day that truly reflects who you are. I'm happy to share my detailed budget sheet with anyone!

Our micro wedding was everything we dreamed of and more, and we wouldn’t have had it any other way. 

Introducing Mrs. and Mrs. Thomas!

For as long as I can remember, writing has been my refuge. Words poured out of me effortlessly, weaving stories and expressing emotions I often struggled to articulate aloud. It was more than a hobby; it was my identity. But a few years ago, I found myself staring at a blank screen, my fingers hovering above the keyboard, unable to summon the words that once flowed so freely. My passion for writing had evaporated, leaving me adrift and questioning my very essence.

It began subtly, a gradual decline in my enthusiasm. Deadlines felt like chains rather than motivators, and the joy of crafting sentences turned into a chore. I told myself it was a phase, something all writers go through. Yet, as weeks turned into months, I realized this was more than just a creative slump. The spark that once ignited my imagination was gone, replaced by a dull, oppressive void.

I tried everything to rekindle the flame. I read books by my favorite authors, hoping their magic would inspire me. I read reviews from people who adore me. I sought guidance and camaraderie from fellow writers. I even experimented with different genres and styles, but nothing worked. The more I forced myself to write, the more it felt like an insurmountable burden. My passion, the one thing that had always defined me, seemed lost forever.

Desperate and disheartened, I decided to take a break. I put away my notebooks, closed my laptop, and stopped pressuring myself to produce. It felt like giving up, but in retrospect, it was the best decision I could have made. Without the constant stress of unmet expectations, I began to explore other interests. I traveled, met new people, and experienced life in ways I hadn’t allowed myself to before. I started journaling, not with the intention of creating something profound, but simply to record my thoughts and feelings. I have sooooo many blogs!

It was during one of these journaling sessions that I had a revelation. Writing didn’t have to be perfect or for an audience. It didn’t have to be anything but an honest expression of myself. The pressure to produce had stifled my creativity, and by letting go of that pressure, I slowly began to rediscover my love for writing.

Since, I've been starting small. I write about my travels, capturing the essence of new places and the people I meet. I pen down random musings, snippets of dialogue I overhear, and descriptions of moments that move me. Without realizing it, I am writing again—not for publication, not for validation, but for the sheer joy of it. The words flow naturally, unburdened by expectation.

The other day, I stumbled upon an old draft of a story I had abandoned during my creative drought. I read it with fresh eyes, and to my surprise, I felt a familiar twinge of excitement. Ideas started bubbling up, and I found myself itching to rewrite and expand it. That story, once a symbol of my failure, has become the bridge to my renewed passion. I have been ENGROSSED in it.

Looking back, losing my passion for writing was a painful, yet necessary part of my journey. It taught me to let go of perfectionism and external validation, to find joy in the process rather than the product. Today, I write with a newfound appreciation for the craft, savoring each word and the freedom it brings.

Writing, like any passion, ebbs and flows. It’s not a constant, unchanging force but a dynamic, evolving part of who we are. Sometimes, it requires stepping away to gain perspective, to grow in other areas of life, and to return with a deeper understanding of ourselves. Losing my passion for writing was one of the hardest experiences I’ve faced but finding it again has been infinitely rewarding. It’s a testament to the resilience of creativity and the enduring power of words.