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FAQ
Helpful Information Regarding FrightReads
What is this event?
FrightReads is an all-ages, family-friendly event dedicated to putting all of the fall and Halloween under one roof! Vendors ranging from candle makers to jewelers will be in attendance with our wonderful local authors!
What is the current COVID-19 Mask Policy?
Presently, we are requesting that you wear a mask if you can. Anne Arundel County does not require masks if you are vaccinated. There will also be hand sanitizer stations located through the facility, as well as provided by several vendors at their tables.
I want to wear a costume to this event, what's the deal?
On the off chance you feel like wearing a Halloween costume to a book festival, we recommend several guidelines to follow. No firearm-type weapons, which includes but isn't limited to airsoft, paintball, or NERF.
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Costumes should not be big and bulky. Remember there are small aisleways, and in some cases very delicate merchandise on the tables.
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Bottom line: If you feel you want to wear a costume, we won't stop you. Be courteous and cognizant of your surroundings and the crowd. If there is a costume that cannot be worn safely, be prepared to leave it in the car.
Should I bring cash? Card?
It is strongly recommended to bring some cash. Most vendors will be able to accept card payments, however. On the off-chance there is no internet connection, or they lack electronic payments, it is recommended to bring a small amount of paper cash.
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Keep in mind these are not large businesses, rather, small, family-owned operations that are set up.
*Author Name Here* is at the event! Can they sign my books?
Absolutely! Typically, if you've purchased a book from an author, it goes without saying that it gets autographed. Be sure to let them know if you need the book made out to a friend or relative if it is a gift!
It never hurts to ask.
**Autographs/photos are subject to a charge for certain guests, but authors are generally free with the purchase of a book. Check with the specific guest at the event for full details**
I have an issue while I'm at the event, who do I see?
Clearly marked will be the FrightReads staff. They'll be the folks in the bright orange shirts that read "STAFF." Feel free to stop one of us and ask for assistance, directions, or to provide feedback on a vendor or aspect of the event!
I want to be a vendor!
While that's not much of a question, we sure get that a lot! We love talking to new authors and small businesses about being a part of the event. Here are some of the criteria:
-Halloween, Fall, or similarly themed items. This can be horror books, fall decor, or macabre props, and everything in between!
-No MLM's. We're looking to give those Mom and Pop shops a fair shot. While we are a sucker for Scentsy, we'll see you at a local craft fair.
-One of our hard stops is full Erotica-type books. These are not permitted at our event for the same reason we have a "no pornography" policy. Feel free to email or apply if you're unsure of your book.
-If you're not sure that you fit, ask! We've talked to people that have books about Thanksgiving! While that's a stretch, it's still fall!
-Get in early with the event. The closer to fall it becomes, the less tables we have.
Email: info@frightreads for any questions on becoming a vendor or apply HERE
I want to sponsor this event, but how?
We love our sponsors. Our local book stores, comic book shops and more have been such an asset in making sure this event gets off the ground. We'd love to promote your shop on any of our fliers, social media posts, and more!
If you have questions, send us an email at info@frightreads.com and we'll discuss future event sponsorship! Otherwise view the package details over on our SPONSOR page!
WEAPONS POLICY
Additional to the costume policy, it should be specified that bladed weapons are not allowed within Benfield Sportcenter. This includes pocket knives, butcher knives, machetes, cleavers, and the like.
*Metal-bladed weapons are absolutely prohibited*
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***HOWEVER***
In the event you have an item that fits this category, that you wish to be signed by our guest:
Email info@frightreads.com
We will need to have you come to the front desk, and let us know that you are on the list. One of our staff will escort you to the line for our guest, have your item signed (A cost is involved, posted online or the day of), and escort you to the parking lot.
You may return to the event after the machete is returned to the vehicle, using your wristband for re-entry.
How much are Photos/Autographs?
The celebs we have on-site are amazing! We are excited that YOU are excited! All of our guests will have their prices posted at their table. Cash is preferred and highly recommended to bring. Most of our vendors take Square/digital payment, but not all.
Final details will be posted here and on our social media regarding payment methods and processes.
As it stands, our celebs will be signing for both Saturday and Sunday during event hours, except where displayed at their tables. This includes panels, photo shoots, lunch breaks, or if they step away from their table to stretch legs.
Is there a hotel deal?
Absolutely! We've partnered with Hilton and have an incredible deal with Hampton Inn, located in Arundel Mills, approx 14 minutes away! There are a ton of great places to eat, as well as being conveniently located near a Walmart and shopping mall, you'll never run out of things to do when you're not hanging out with us!
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Can I sell my AI Artwork?
I wanna eat, how?
We're working to lock in a food truck for everyone to enjoy! In the meantime, please consider the Concession Stand within the Sportscenter! Handheld snackables like popcorn, etc can easily be purchased at concessions and consumed within the show floor.
Here's our stance on AI Artwork:
It's great. It's fun. It's pretty dang cool. Wow, such technology! Etc.
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As an event that plays host to artists who take hours or days to draw their art, and countless years to perfect, it is up to us to look out for their best interests.
With that said, artists with AI-generated art will be rejected from FrightReads Applications. Additionally, should someone manage to slip by and set up, FrightReads has the right to refuse the artist and ask for them to pack up and head out.
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We are an event dedicated to authors, artists, and creators. To have a computer-generated product would be an insult to everyone under our roof. Please continue to play with AI art systems for your own personal enjoyment, but do not attempt to sell the artwork at our event. Thank you for your understanding.