Claire,I’m sososososo sorry! If its too late for this, that’s fine. I’ve just been super swamped because I ended up running a promotion for Amazing Spider-Man 2 on top of all my FCBD duties!
How long have you been doing FCBD?
Personally I’ve only been doing FCBD for 3 years, and this is my 2nd year coordinating it for my store as the General Manager. From what I’ve asked the owner, this store has been a FCBD participant since it started.
What does it represent for you?
For me, its an event that stands for so much that I try to do here at Third Planet. I’ve worked in the other male-centric geek retail before (video games), and I always try to create a more inclusive/welcoming environment. With comics, I feel its even more important to assist in establishing a love of reading in kids, which is something I see a lot of the parents that bring their kiddos in try to do. Being able to show them that there’s more to comics than the big titles that might not be appropriate for younger readers is very important, and I find the selection of comics from FCBD are great for that.
Really, I just want everyone to read and enjoy comics, and this is one of the best ways to make that happen.
Do you build a larger event around it?
The Houston branch of Extra Life does sign ups for their gaming marathon here as well.
Does FCBD result in a same day sales bump or new customers?
Do you try to make your shop particularly welcoming on FCBD? How?
Honestly, I try to have our store as welcoming as possible all year long! We do try to establish a bit more of a festival atmosphere on FCBD. When possible, we arrange for things like a food truck or face painter for the kids. Making this day as fun as possible for everyone who comes really makes all the stress I go through leading up to the day totally worth it!
What do you hope for from future FCBDs? What could they do to make it more special/effective?
Anything else you want to add?