Otakon is a wonderful anime convention for Yaoi Press. We are overwhelmed by adoring fans and supporters. We always have great sales at our booths. The industry panel I put on annually gets crammed with hundreds of fans, and highlights end up on Youtube. The staff person in charge admitted she didn't care for yaoi, but still loved the riotous panel.
With all the good this show does for our business I hate to complain about anything. However, one thing that happens year after year is that I hear from fans who never got to meet me (Yamila) because they didn't know I was there. They didn't know I was at the Yaoi Press booth. They missed the opportunity to get their books autographed. They missed a chance to do a portfolio review with me.
I've asked to be put on the guest list in 2008 and again this year. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Otakon is going to do this. There's no hard feelings on my end. I understand shows have different reasons for the decisions they make. I'm extremely grateful when shows like Anime Central, Anime Expo, Anime North, and so forth, choose to have me as a guest. It would be nice to see this at Otakon since it is the 'Yaoi Con of the East.' I will still continue to support and adore this show despite this decision by them.
I will not be attending Otakon in person this year. There will not be a Yaoi Press industry panel. It's a very busy convention season for me. Once a show puts me on the guest list I know I've got to be there. With Otakon I'm going to take the opportunity for what will probably be a much needed break. Staffers Amanda and Jaime will be there to run the Yaoi Press booth in the dealers room. I'm sure it will still be a great show for Yaoi Press in 2009!
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