Why You Should Consider a Self-Publishing Service Provider

Why You Should Consider a Self-Publishing Service Provider

by | May 28, 2025

Why Partnering with a Self-Publishing Service Provider Might Be the Smartest Move You Make

Are you overwhelmed by the self-publishing process? You’re not alone.

At a recent session with Leanne Janzen from FriesenPress, we got a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to self-publish with the help of a trusted service provider—and the difference it can make in your publishing journey.

This post breaks down the key takeaways and action steps for authors who are serious about publishing professionally, efficiently, and with full creative control.

Key Takeaways: The A to Z of Working with a Self-Publishing Service Provider

1. Self-publishing = self-empowerment.
You’re in control of everything—from editing and design to pricing and marketing. The biggest perk? You keep 100% of your net royalties.

2. You don’t have to do it alone.
DIY self-publishing can be exhausting. With a service provider like FriesenPress, you work with a pre-vetted team of editors, designers, and specialists who handle the heavy lifting—while you stay creatively in charge.

3. You still have homework.
You’ll need a polished manuscript (Word doc), high-res images, beta reader feedback, and clarity on permissions or citations. The more prepared you are, the smoother the process.

4. Support doesn’t stop at launch.
Changes in the publishing landscape—like shifts in return policies at online retailers—can impact your book. A service provider keeps you in the loop and adapts fast.

5. Don’t confuse service providers with hybrid publishers.
Service providers help you self-publish and retain full rights and royalties. Hybrid publishers often require payment but may own part of your rights and control royalties.

The Life Cycle of a Book with a Self-Publishing Service Provider

Here’s what the process typically looks like when working with a publishing services partner:

  1. Consultation – Free and pressure-free. Evaluate fit, review services, ask all your questions.
  2. Manuscript Evaluation – Get pro-level feedback on your book’s structure, tone, editing needs, and metadata suggestions.
  3. Production – Editing, cover design, interior layout, and pricing support—all guided by a publishing specialist.
  4. Distribution – They manage listings (Ingram, Amazon, B&N, Apple, etc.), assign ISBNs, and set your book up for print and ebook sales.
  5. Promotional Coaching – From social media setup to custom content calendars and event materials, they help you build your marketing strategy step by step.

Action Steps for Authors Considering a Service Provider

  • Format your manuscript in Word or LibreOffice.
  • Prepare high-resolution images separately.
  • Complete beta reading and peer reviews before onboarding.
  • Have citations and copyright questions clarified.
  • Book a consultation (many providers offer them for free!).
  • Research the company: Google reviews, BBB accreditation, talk to past clients.
  • Read the service agreement thoroughly. Ask for clarification before signing anything.

What a Good Service Provider Won’t Do

  • They won’t promise to market your book for you.

    Instead, they’ll coach you on how to promote it effectively.

  • They won’t own your work.

    You keep your rights, your royalties, your voice.

Bonus Tip: Ask About A La Carte Services

Some providers, like FriesenPress, offer standalone manuscript evaluations and editing. This is a great way to test the waters before committing to full production support.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been dreaming about publishing but drowning in decisions, a publishing services partner might be exactly what you need to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Leanne Janzen and her team at FriesenPress show that professional self-publishing doesn’t mean going it alone—it means choosing the right partners for the journey.

Ready to learn more? Visit FriesenPress and save $150 on a manuscript critique through our link: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/friesenpress

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Meet the 2025 Sponsors at Live Exhibit Booths

Meet the 2025 Sponsors at Live Exhibit Booths

by | Feb 18, 2025

The Women in Publishing Summit would not be possible without the support from all 38 of our sponsors. If you have a ticket to the 2025 Summit, you’ll get two opportunities to meet the sponsors, learn about the resources and offers they have for our community, and ask all your questions! The Sponsor Exhibit Booths will be open on day 0 and day 3 of the conference. At these events, you’ll have the chance to join Zoom breakout rooms and chat directly with expert book marketers, editors, publishing service providers, and more!

These events are exclusive to ticket holders, so if you haven’t gotten your ticket yet to the 2025 Women in Publishing Summit, get it now!

 

Live Sponsor Exhibit Booths

Summit Day 0: Tuesday, March 4, 1:00–2:30 PM Eastern/NY Time

Summit Day 3: Friday, March 7, 3:00–4:00 PM Eastern/NY Time

 

Meet all the sponsors and learn about their offers here: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/sponsors/ 

Day 0 Sponsor Exhibit Booths

Tuesday, March 4, 1:00–2:30 PM Eastern/NY Time (Zoom Room A)

 

Publishing, Self-Publish Services & Printing: Lulu, PublishDrive, BookFunnel,  MCRL & Board Book Printing, Warren Publishing, Luminare Press, Ingenium, Bublish, FriesenPress, Curios

 

Marketing & Promotion: Book Award Pro, Abundantly Social, Bublish, Children’s Book Mastery, Ingenium, Curios

 

Editorial & Coaching Services: ProWritingAid, Ignite & Write, Chanticleer, Heart of the Story Editorial & Coaching, Children’s Book Mastery, Your Book Is Your Hook

 

Audiobooks: The Audiobook Experience

Meet the Sponsors:

Book Award Pro is how authors find the perfect reviews and awards for their books. Trusted by authors and professionals around the globe, Book Award Pro operates the world’s largest database of legitimate reviews and awards. AI technology curates accolades specific to your book. The Free Plan ($0/month) finds review and award opportunities specific for your book. Learn more about Book Award Pro and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/bookawardpro 

 

Abundantly Social is an award winning Social Media Marketing agency for authors and small businesses. We specialize in every aspect of book publication, book promotion, digital marketing, and creating Amazon Best Sellers. Learn more about Abundantly Social and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/abundantlysocial

 

Lulu is a self-publishing and print-on-demand platform that puts you in control. Since 2002, Lulu has empowered over two million authors, creators, educators, and businesses from all over the world to publish, print, and prosper. With Lulu’s global distribution network, direct sales solutions, and industry-leading print-on-demand technology, writers can share their stories while growing their brand, audience, and bank account. Learn more about Lulu and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/Lulu

 

ProWritingAid is the essential toolkit for storytellers helping over 3 million writers craft their stories and bring them to life. Tell your story with ProWritingAid. We’re the always on, always helpful AI writing assistant. Learn more about ProWritingAid and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/PWA

Your Book Is Your Hook is a full service consulting practice serving book writers, screenwriters, playwrights and wannabes as well as the entire publishing industry. Services include 1:1 consulting for writing, marketing, and getting published. https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/yourbookhook

PublishDrive helps you easily self-publish ebooks online, audiobooks, and print books to thousands of stores worldwide. One click, publish everywhere. Learn more about PublishDrive and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/publishdrive

 

MCRL & Board Book Printing: Whether you’re printing your first or fifteenth book, MCRL’s offset printing team takes the time to answer questions, share recommendations, and manage the itty bitty details. Self-publishers will also appreciate our competitive pricing, high-quality standards, and environmental focus. Learn more about MCRL & Board Book Printing and their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/mcrl

 

Warren Publishing is the number one indie publisher in the Carolinas, providing excellence in hybrid publishing since 1988. We specialize in providing a caring and vibrant publishing process where ideas are nurtured and authors receive personal attention. We accept submissions of trade fiction (thrillers, women’s fiction, historical fiction, romance, sci-fi/fantasy), literary fiction, nonfiction, memoir, self-help, poetry, children’s books, business books, and more. Learn more about Warren Publishing and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/warren

 

Ignite & Write: Roxanne’s unique and multi-award winning method of storytelling has changed the lives of thousands of budding authors since 2007, allowing them to bring their messages to life in nonfiction books with structure, connection to the reader and potential profit. A prolific ghostwriter, author, workshop facilitator, writing mentor and former print journalist, Roxanne’s presentations are charged with powerful content and tangible tools that remove the mystery from storytelling and ignite a thought-provoking and emotion-evoking theatre within the mind. Learn more about Ignite & Write and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/ignitewrite

 

BookFunnel is an eBook and Audiobook Delivery Service for Indie Authors and Small Publishers. Whether it’s delivering your reader magnet, sending out advanced copies of your book, handing out ebooks at a conference, or fulfilling your digital sales to readers, BookFunnel does it all. Learn more about BookFunnel and take advantage of their special offer:  https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/bookfunnel

 

Children’s Book Mastery: Discover how to successfully plan, write, publish and market your children’s books and more! Publishing a children’s book can seem like a nightmare. Our expert video sessions make publishing books for kids a dream. Learn more about Children’s Book Mastery and take advantage of their special offer:  https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/ChildrensBookMastery

 

Bublish is a one-stop solution for authors who want to self-publish high-quality books, distribute and market them effectively, and fully monetize their work. Learn more about Bublish and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/bublish

 

Luminare Press offers a wide range of options for authors who want to publish professionally while keeping full control of their work and 100% of the royalty. They are a professional team of designers, editors, and publishing experts who help both first-time and experienced authors publish their books, offering personalized services for whatever level of help is needed. Learn more about Luminare and take advantage of their special offer:  https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/luminare

 

Chanticleer Book Reviews offers editorial book reviews, manuscript overviews, editorial services, writing contests, book awards, an author conference, workshops, and book marketing opportunities to help authors achieve their publishing goals. Learn more about Chanticleer:

https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/chanticleer

 

Heart of the Story Editorial & Coaching Services: Book coach and editor Sara Letourneau works with fiction and nonfiction authors and writers to help them develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need so they can finish their manuscripts, polish them for publication, and stay focused and motivated as they reach for their writing goals and embrace their creativity. Learn more about Heart of the Story and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/heartofstory

 

The Audiobook Experience at Voice over Vermont, LLC is a boutique audiobook production company providing a custom recording experience for authors. We work with authors who want to narrate their own books… and those who definitely do not! Learn more about The Audiobook Experience and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/voiceoververmont

 

FriesenPress is a 100% employee-owned publishing services provider that offers editing, design, production, audiobooks, and promotional support to authors looking to self-publish. Their mission is to embrace each book as their own and empower their authors to share their best stories with the world. To date, they’ve partnered with thousands of authors and have published over 10,000 titles (and counting). Learn more about FriesenPress and take advantage of their offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/friesenpress 

 

Ingenium Books a hybrid publisher looking for stories that awe, inspire, enlighten, and challenge. Whether fiction or nonfiction, they are interested in stories that demonstrate our innate resilience, that transformation is possible. Their ideal authors are professional women who are writing crime thrillers, women’s fiction, or historical fiction. (Of course we’ll take a look at nonfiction, too.) Learn more about Ingenium and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/ingenium

 

Curios is a direct sales and engagement platform where authors can sell/distribute ebooks and audiobooks directly to their readers while keeping 100% of the sale. Additionally, authors get access to readers’ email and contact information for any transactions so they can communicate directly with them. Curios has created a $1 MILLION creator fund that offers up to $12,000 to authors for joining the platform and distributing their books on the Curios Marketplace. We want to put the power back into the hands of the author! Learn more about Curios and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/curios

 

Day 3 Sponsor Exhibit Booths

Friday, March 7, 3:00–4:00 PM Eastern/NY Time (Zoom Room A)

 

Publishing, Self-Publish Services & Printing: Lulu, PublishDrive, MCRL & Board Book Printing, Warren Publishing, Luminare Press, Ingenium, Old Mate Media, Curios

 

Marketing & Promotion: Book Award Pro, Bublish, Ingenium, Old Mate Media, Curios

 

Editorial & Coaching Services: Chanticleer, Heart of the Story Editorial & Coaching, Old Mate Media

 

Audiobooks: The Audiobook Experience

Meet the Sponsors:

Book Award Pro is how authors find the perfect reviews and awards for their books. Trusted by authors and professionals around the globe, Book Award Pro operates the world’s largest database of legitimate reviews and awards. AI technology curates accolades specific to your book. The Free Plan ($0/month) finds review and award opportunities specific for your book. Learn more about Book Award Pro and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/bookawardpro 

 

Lulu is a self-publishing and print-on-demand platform that puts you in control. Since 2002, Lulu has empowered over two million authors, creators, educators, and businesses from all over the world to publish, print, and prosper. With Lulu’s global distribution network, direct sales solutions, and industry-leading print-on-demand technology, writers can share their stories while growing their brand, audience, and bank account. Learn more about Lulu and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/Lulu

 

PublishDrive helps you easily self-publish ebooks online, audiobooks, and print books to thousands of stores worldwide. One click, publish everywhere. Learn more about PublishDrive and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/publishdrive

 

Warren Publishing is the number one indie publisher in the Carolinas, providing excellence in hybrid publishing since 1988. We specialize in providing a caring and vibrant publishing process where ideas are nurtured and authors receive personal attention. We accept submissions of trade fiction (thrillers, women’s fiction, historical fiction, romance, sci-fi/fantasy), literary fiction, nonfiction, memoir, self-help, poetry, children’s books, business books, and more. Learn more about Warren Publishing and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/warren

 

Bublish is a one-stop solution for authors who want to self-publish high-quality books, distribute and market them effectively, and fully monetize their work. Learn more about Bublish and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/bublish

 

MCRL & Board Book Printing: Whether you’re printing your first or fifteenth book, MCRL’s offset printing team takes the time to answer questions, share recommendations, and manage the itty bitty details. Self-publishers will also appreciate our competitive pricing, high-quality standards, and environmental focus. Learn more about MCRL & Board Book Printing and their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/mcrl

 

Luminare Press offers a wide range of options for authors who want to publish professionally while keeping full control of their work and 100% of the royalty. They are a professional team of designers, editors, and publishing experts who help both first-time and experienced authors publish their books, offering personalized services for whatever level of help is needed. Learn more about Luminare and take advantage of their special offer:  https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/luminare

 

Chanticleer Book Reviews offers editorial book reviews, manuscript overviews, editorial services, writing contests, book awards, an author conference, workshops, and book marketing opportunities to help authors achieve their publishing goals. Learn more about Chanticleer:

https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/chanticleer

 

Heart of the Story Editorial & Coaching Services: Book coach and editor Sara Letourneau works with fiction and nonfiction authors and writers to help them develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need so they can finish their manuscripts, polish them for publication, and stay focused and motivated as they reach for their writing goals and embrace their creativity. Learn more about Heart of the Story and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/heartofstory

 

The Audiobook Experience at Voice over Vermont, LLC is a boutique audiobook production company providing a custom recording experience for authors. We work with authors who want to narrate their own books… and those who definitely do not! Learn more about The Audiobook Experience and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/voiceoververmont

 

Ingenium Books a hybrid publisher looking for stories that awe, inspire, enlighten, and challenge. Whether fiction or nonfiction, they are interested in stories that demonstrate our innate resilience, that transformation is possible. Their ideal authors are professional women who are writing crime thrillers, women’s fiction, or historical fiction. (Of course we’ll take a look at nonfiction, too.) Learn more about Ingenium and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/ingenium

 

Old Mate Media works primarily with authors that want to self-publish and retain 100% of the rights to their stories. For these authors we provide author services as they need including editing, illustrations, design and marketing. Learn more about Old Mate Media and their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/oldmatemedia

 

Curios is a direct sales and engagement platform where authors can sell/distribute ebooks and audiobooks directly to their readers while keeping 100% of the sale. Additionally, authors get access to readers’ email and contact information for any transactions so they can communicate directly with them. Curios has created a $1 MILLION creator fund that offers up to $12,000 to authors for joining the platform and distributing their books on the Curios Marketplace. We want to put the power back into the hands of the author! Learn more about Curios and take advantage of their special offer: https://womeninpublishingsummit.com/curios

 

—

 

The Women in Publishing Summit is a four-day virtual event running from March 5 to 8. All sessions are recorded, and you can rewatch them as many times as you’d like through the end of the year. We also have networking, community-building events, and special bonus sessions. It’s a LOT of fun! The best part is that you get to be a part of the WIP community all year long with free bonus post-conference webinars, monthly networking sessions, and access to sponsor discounts.

 

Don’t forget to grab your ticket today, so you can participate in these exhibit booths at the conference and take advantage of the sponsor offers and discounts all year long!

 

Want to meet with these sponsors? Grab Your Ticket today!

We hope to see you at the 2025 Women in Publishing Summit!

Join us and get your ticket now!
beginner author, women in publishing summit, 2025, ticket, publishing, sponsor
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BookFunnel is an online tool that allows you to build landing pages and deliver your book to interested readers. Our team uses it to build landing pages for our authors to share their Advance Review Copies (or ARCs) because it’s SO easy and integrates with any author website. It lets you add anyone who downloads the ARC to your mailing list, or you can keep them on a separate ARC list and invite them to join your regular newsletter later, if you’d prefer. BookFunnel gives you a seamless tool to speak directly to those who are most invested in your book — the people who are already reading it!

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Podcast 147: Navigating Self-Publishing with Confidence with Leanne Janzen of FriesenPress

Podcast 147: Navigating Self-Publishing with Confidence with Leanne Janzen of FriesenPress

by | Jan 9, 2025

In this episode of Alexa’s Publishing Chat, host Alexa Bigwarfe interviews Leanne Janzen from FriesenPress, a leading self-publishing service provider. Leanne shares insights into the self-publishing process, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right publishing route based on an author’s goals, budget, and timeline. Leanne also explains how FriesenPress supports authors through every stage.

Listen Now:

Subscribe to the podcast:

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In this podcast episode, Alexa shares:

  • Introduction to Leanne Janzen and FriesenPress. FriesensPress, a 15-year-old self-publishing service provider, has celebrated publishing its 10,000th title. The range of self-publishing services offered, including editing, cover design, formatting, distribution, and personalized support through a publishing specialist.
  • FriesenPress and Women in Publishing Summit Partnership. FriesenPress is sponsoring the Women in Publishing Summit for the first time. Special offer: $150 off manuscript evaluations for summit attendees.
  • The Benefits of Manuscript Evaluation. Detailed editorial feedback tailored to the manuscript. Metadata recommendations, including BO codes and search keywords. Examples of how the manuscript could look after editing. Editing recommendations from proofreads to developmental edits.
  • Self-Publishing Considerations. The importance of budget and timeline when deciding between self-publishing and traditional publishing and ow self-publishing allows for greater control, especially for time-sensitive or niche projects.
  • The Benefits of Working with a Self-Publishing Service Provider. Simplifies project management by coordinating all publishing steps. Offers ongoing support, such as adapting to industry changes (e.g., returnable status for online retailers). Empowers authors through coaching on marketing tools, website management, and social media strategies.
  • Debunking Misconceptions About Self-Publishing. High-quality self-published books can be indistinguishable from traditionally published ones. Many well-known books, like Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, started as self-published works.
  • Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing. Traditional publishing requires significant marketing efforts from the author, similar to self-publishing. Even if traditional publishing is the goal, self-publishing can be a valuable stepping stone or alternative.
  • Marketing and Promotion. Essential for both traditionally and self-published authors. FriesenPress educates authors on building their platforms and developing marketing strategies.
  • Key Takeaways for Authors: Self-publishing is a viable and respected option in today’s industry Authors should prioritize editing, professional design, and marketing efforts to create a polished product. The publishing journey is unique to each author, and understanding your goals will help determine the best path forward.

Guest Bio

Starting her journey in the publishing world, Leanne began working as a Publishing Specialist – guiding authors through the self publishing process with care and attention. Her ability to form relationships and desire to continually improve and learn led her to the University of Winnipeg.

There, Leanne completed Leadership training shortly before transitioning to her new role with FriesenPress and now leads the sales team.

Her passion for educating others on the current publishing landscape and the benefits of self publishing led her to launching a successful speaking program at FriesenPress, where she and her team present to organizations and groups around North America.

When she is not keeping busy with her children and dogs (there are three of both!), you can find her on the beach with a good book and a glass of wine in hand.

Important Links:

 

Episode Highlights

[00:03:04] What is FriesenPress?
Leanne explains the history of FriesenPress, its role as the self-publishing arm of Friesens Corporation, and the comprehensive services they offer to authors, including editing, cover design, formatting, and distribution.

[00:09:12] Manuscript Evaluation Offer
Leanne introduces FriesenPress’s manuscript evaluation service, a key tool for authors to receive professional feedback on their work, and announces a $150 discount for Women in Publishing Summit participants.

[00:13:06] When to Choose Self-Publishing
Discussion on the key factors for deciding whether to self-publish, including budget, timeline, and creative control, with examples of projects that are ideal for self-publishing.

[00:19:48] The Value of Professional Editing
A deep dive into why professional editing is critical for producing a high-quality book and how FriesenPress tailors editing recommendations to each manuscript’s needs.

[00:29:09] The Reality of Book Marketing
Leanne emphasizes the responsibility of authors to market their books, regardless of publishing route, and explains how FriesenPress empowers authors with tools to succeed in promotion.

Let me know if you’d like to refine these further!

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

ProWritingAid: Become a Better Writer Today

ProWritingAid: Become a Better Writer Today

by | Dec 23, 2024

If you’re reading this, I think I can safely assume that you are a writer who wants to be a better writer. And what do writers need more than anything? Help with editing! Many of us know the editing process can feel like a slog. It’s difficult to take that deep breath and dive back into our work with a critical eye. But we know it’s a necessary evil to make our writing the best it can possibly be. Editing can be a lot of work for one person, and even the best writers and editors among us can still miss those tiny errors. So beyond hiring professional help, what can we do? We can get ourselves a personal writing assistant with a sharp eye.

ProWritingAid is your personal writing assistant, combining AI-powered analysis with human expertise. ProWritingAid can help anyone and everyone become a great writer and storyteller. Beginners to experts can benefit from their in-depth analyses and learning material. With ProWritingAid, you stay in the driver’s seat as you write—it’ll never try to write your novel for you. They also value security. Your personal writing is never stored or used to train AI. You can also join their online community and attend free writing events with industry experts and bestselling authors.

ProWritingAid is special because it offers a comprehensive suite of writing tools designed to help writers improve their craft. It provides in-depth analysis and actionable feedback on grammar, style, and readability, helping writers polish their work to perfection. The platform integrates seamlessly with popular writing apps like Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Scrivener, making it easy to use wherever you write. 

ProWritingAid also offers a plagiarism detection feature, a contextual thesaurus, and various reports to address specific writing concerns. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, ProWritingAid is a valuable tool for writers of all levels, from students to professional authors. It’s an easy-to-use product that’s like having a writing coach right in your laptop! 

What does ProWritingAid do? 

By integrating seamlessly with popular writing tools like Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Scrivener, it makes editing and refining your writing easier and more efficient. ProWritingAid also offers a plagiarism checker, a contextual thesaurus, and various reports to address specific writing concerns, making it an indispensable resource for writers of all levels. Whether you’re a student, a professional author, or just someone who wants to be a better writer, ProWritingAid offers the tools you need to elevate your work to the next level.

What kind of author needs ProWritingAid?

ProWritingAid is a valuable tool for various types of authors:

  • First-Time Authors: who need guidance on grammar, style, and readability to ensure their work is polished and professional.
  • Self-Published Authors: who want to enhance their manuscripts without the help of a traditional editor.
  • Established Authors: who are looking to refine their writing and maintain a high standard across their works.

ProWritingAid provides detailed feedback and tools to help authors at all stages of their writing journey, making it a versatile and essential resource.

How can I learn more about ProWritingAid?

Check out the ProWritingAid website to find out how they can help you become a better writer!

Watch our Women in Publishing Summit 2025 WIP Sponsor Webinar: How to Use Technology to Make Your Editing Process Simple and Efficient with Hayley Milliman from ProWritingAid.

Join us at the 2025 Women in Publishing Summit!

PublishDrive: Revolutionize Your Self-Publishing Journey

PublishDrive: Revolutionize Your Self-Publishing Journey

by | Dec 18, 2024

Have you ever been in this situation? You’ve written the book, you’ve edited it until it shines, you’ve had beta readers read it, and now you feel it’s ready to be published. But then you get stuck. You don’t know what steps to take next. You may have decided to go to the self-publishing route because you’ve heard great things and you think it’s the best choice for you. But you’re still thinking, “Now what?” 

Enter: PublishDrive. They can do it all. They not only help you self-publish your book but provide all the ins and outs you might not even know about!

Their platform is intentionally designed to help and empower authors succeed. With PublishDrive, authors can publish their books globally with just a few clicks, reaching readers in over 100 countries. Their platform also offers marketing tools, sales analytics, and royalty management, making it easier for authors to focus on their writing while the platform handles the rest. This all-in-one approach makes PublishDrive a valuable partner for authors looking to navigate the complexities of self-publishing and reach a global audience.

One of the really unique things about PublishDrive is that it provides self-publishing services to both authors and publishers. And at the Women in Publishing Summit that is who we also serve! PublishDrive has a revolutionary way of looking at and providing self-publishing services.

 

What does PublishDrive do?

PublishDrive is a digital publishing platform designed to empower authors and publishers at every stage of their publishing journey. It offers a range of services and tools, including global book distribution to over 400 stores and 240,000 libraries in more than 100 countries, ensuring authors can reach a worldwide audience. The platform supports ebook, print-on-demand, and audiobook formats, providing flexibility and extensive market access.

What kind of author needs PublishDrive?

Independent Authors and Self-Publishers: Writers who are looking to self-publish their works while maximizing reach and efficiency. These clients benefit from tools like global distribution, AI-powered metadata optimization, and royalty management, which help streamline the publishing process and improve book discoverability.

How can I learn more about PublishDrive?

To learn more about PublishDrive, you can visit their official website. There, you’ll find detailed information about their services, including book formatting, distribution, marketing tools, and sales tracking. They also offer resources like tutorials and guides to help you get started. Additionally, you can explore their blog and help center for more insights and support.

Female Founder and CEO

Kinga Jentetics is a visionary entrepreneur who has been recognized for her contributions to the publishing industry. Kinga made Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in Media in 2017 and was named one of the Top 100 European Female Founders by The Hundert. She is passionate about using new technologies like blockchain and AI to shape the digital publishing landscape. Under her leadership, PublishDrive has become a leading platform for indie publishers, offering global ebook distribution, promotional tools, and financial services tailored for independent authors.

Join us May 27, 2025 for the WIP Webinar Series: Making Self Publishing Simple with Danica Favorite from PublishDrive

Join us at the 2025 Women in Publishing Summit!

Lulu: Turn Your Manuscript into a Masterpiece with Print-on-Demand

Lulu: Turn Your Manuscript into a Masterpiece with Print-on-Demand

by | Dec 11, 2024

Hi, Amy here again, I’m a self-published author who has used Lulu as a service for print on demand books. I needed very specific books printed: special edition hardbacks for a giveaway and Lulu delivered!  Lulu is great because they know exactly what an author needs! They make the creation of books seamless with each step and the books always look great!

Lulu is set apart as a self-publishing option because they have a comprehensive suite of services. With Lulu, authors are empowered to take control of their publishing journey. With print-on-demand technology, authors can avoid the costs and risks associated with large print runs. Lulu also provides distribution services, making it easier for authors to get their books into bookstores and online retailers. 

In my experience, Lulu is extremely user-friendly, allowing authors like me to focus on their writing while Lulu handles the technical aspects of publishing. Additionally, Lulu offers a range of marketing and promotional tools to help authors reach a wider audience and build their brand. This combination of services and support makes Lulu a valuable partner for authors looking to self-publish their work successfully.

We’re excited to welcome Lulu to the 2025 Women in Publishing Summit as a Silver Sponsor. Lulu is on a mission to make the world a better place, one book at a time. They use sustainable practices and innovative print-on-demand products to make this happen.

What does Lulu do? 

Lulu is a self-publishing company that offers a range of services to help authors publish and distribute their books. They provide print-on-demand (POD) services, which means books are printed only when an order is placed, reducing the need for large upfront print runs. Lulu also offers distribution services, making it easier for authors to get their books into bookstores and online retailers.

What kind of author needs Lulu?

Lulu is ideal for authors who want to self-publish their books with minimal upfront costs and retain control over the publishing process. 

It’s perfect for:

  • First-time Authors: who want to publish their first book without the hassle of managing inventory.
  • Experienced Authors: looking to publish additional works with a reliable and efficient platform.
  • Authors with Niche Topics: who may not have the backing of a traditional publisher but have a dedicated audience.
  • Authors Seeking Global Distribution: wanting to reach readers worldwide without the need for large print runs.
  • Authors Who Value Creative Control: preferring to make decisions about their books’ content, cover design, and pricing.

How can I learn more about Lulu?

To learn more about Lulu, you can visit their official website: Lulu. There, you’ll find detailed information about their services, how to get started with self-publishing, and resources to help you through the process. You can also explore their blog and tutorials for step-by-step guidance.

Join us at on January 28, 2025 for the WIP Webinar Series: What to Know BEFORE You Publish with Chelsea Bennett from Lulu

 

Join us at the 2025 Women in Publishing Summit!