Do you have a book inside you, but don’t know where to start? In this focused two-hour workshop, award-winning novelist Brian Blackwood guides you through the essential steps of turning your idea into a finished, self-published book. From brainstorming and outlining to formatting, editing, and navigating the world of independent publishing, this class demystifies the process and gives you a clear roadmap forward. Whether you’re just starting or stuck mid-draft, you’ll leave with practical tools and the confidence to move your book from your head into your hands.

Attendees will leave the class having learned the basics and some advanced techniques used by professional writers and authors. Hands-on exercises and take-home materials will help ensure that these techniques aren't forgotten once the class is over. Specifically, attendees will learn how to 1) manage vulnerability and fear, 2) use six writing techniques to generate ideas and overcome blocks, 3) write compelling conflicts, 4) perform research on both fiction and non-fiction subjects, 5) (if time allows) publish independently and how to deal with rejection from publishing houses.

Before purchasing tickets for Classes, Evening Events, Investigtions or Ghost Tours, we highly recommend that you make a plan by looking at the 2026 Schedule so you can decide how you want to spend your time and to make sure you don’t purchase tickets for classes or events that overlap or cause scheduling conflicts. Please plan carefully because there are NO CASH REFUNDS. Individual tickets for classes, tours, investigations and events are available from each class or event page and can also be found through the 2026 Schedule or the Online Box Office. 

In addition to purchasing individual tickets to classes, tours or events, you will also need to purchase a General Admission Ticket.

General Admission Tickets are $20 and are good for the entire weekend. General Admission Tickets can be purchased through our Online Box Office or at the Oregon Ghost Conference Box Office at the Seaside Civic and Convention Center: Friday, March 27th-Sunday, March 29th.

General Admission tickets are good for admission to the Vendors Area and all Main Stage Speaker presentations for all three days of the Oregon Ghost Conference.

Sunday Only General Admission Tickets are $10 and can only be purchased in person at the  Oregon Ghost Conference Box Office at the Seaside Civic and Convention Center, Sunday, March 29th ONLY.