In my now twenty-plus year career as a published author, I’ve had the opportunity to do many fun things. I’ve been interviewed on the radio. I’ve signed copies of my books for long lines of people. I’ve appeared in front of readers and read pages from my books. I’ve gotten to see my books displayed in a bookstore window.
And I’ve gotten to walk the red carpet.
Well, it wasn’t red. And it wasn’t in Hollywood. But still … it was exciting! Let me tell you the story.
The first inspy romance book I ever wrote was Preacher Man. It is the story of Regan, a divorced woman trying to raise her teenaged son in the big city, without a faith in God. Her extrovert friend Liz twists her arm into participating in a charity singles auction. Sweating it out on the big stage with bright lights because no one was bidding on her, she’s relieved when one bid finally comes through. One. Probably someone wanting to put her out of her misery. Turns out it was Josh, and he makes his living as, well, a preacher man. Talk about an odd couple. He never intended to fall in love with her. But God had a different idea.
Preacher Man enjoyed a lot of support from its publisher and editor, and they entered it in a contest called the EPIC award for excellence in e-books. They let me know they’d entered it, but I didn’t really think much of it until I got an email from the contest telling me that my book was a finalist in the Spiritual Romance category. Cool! And they invited me to the awards ceremony in New Orleans!
The awards ceremony was the closing event of a four-day writers conference. I had attended several conferences before, and I always learned something. I was interested in going. The fact that it was in New Orleans was icing on the cake. I’d never been there! And seriously, the draw of attending the awards ceremony was appealing. What if I won and I wasn’t there to accept it? (“In Laurie’s absence, we accept this award in her honor…“) Nuh uh. I was going.
I went ahead and enrolled in the conference, booked my flight and my hotel. I reviewed the workshops being offered, and marked in times when I could go sightseeing. I wanted to hit the French Quarter with its old buildings with French influences, like
the wrought iron balconies, red-tiled roofs and picturesque courtyards. I wanted to browse through old bookstores and antique shops and soak in the spirit of this historic city. I wanted to find the renowned open air Café Du Monde and experience the magic of a delicious beignet and café au lait. I wanted to take a guided tour of the graveyards and the Garden District.
As the event approached, I talked to my husband about flying down on Saturday to attend the awards ceremony with me. Whether I won or not, I didn’t want to experience it alone. I either wanted to celebrate a victory, or shake off defeat with him. I was shocked when he declined. He explained that just as the President and Vice President don’t travel on the same plane, he and I shouldn’t either. His rationale was that if the plane went down, our two boys would be orphans.
Then I thought of my parents. They were spending the winter two hundred miles away from New Orleans and maybe they wouldn’t mind making the drive? Besides, my mom had often dubbed herself “my greatest fan” and she wouldn’t want to pass up this opportunity! They agreed to drive over on that Saturday.
My departure date was arriving but alas, I developed a sinus infection. I went to the doctor about a week out and was prescribed an antibiotic. Unfortunately, I didn’t improve. My head was heavy and painful and my nose was running like a faucet. I had no energy. I returned to the doctor and explained I had a pending flight and a conference and I needed to be better. Two days before my flight she prescribed me an extra-strong med and I prayed like crazy. Heal me, Father! Hallelujah, by the morning of my flight, I felt better.
I get to New Orleans, check into my beautiful hotel on Canal Street and sink into my treasured getaway. The sun was shining, the food was unusual and delicious, and the people at the conference were happy and supportive. I had a wonderful time. I got to do all the exploration of the city that I wanted, and I attended a number of informative workshops. But the main event quickly arrived: the awards ceremony.
My parents arrived late in the afternoon and I joyfully welcomed them. They changed into dressy clothes in my hotel room, and then I spent some time getting dressed. I’d needed a formal dress for the ceremony but instead of buying one, I borrowed one from my niece. I believe she’d worn it to a dance. I put it on, did my hair and makeup. A bout of nerves hit me. Although I’d had a wonderful time, a contest win would be the icing on the cake. I’d jotted down a short acceptance speech, just in case, and I’d repeated it to myself so many times that I’d memorized it. Would I get a chance to recite it or would I be listening to someone else delivering theirs?
We went to the banquet hall and sat at a table near the stage. The program was sitting in front of me. Paging through it, I realized that like the Oscars, there were lots and lots of awards tonight. An award for every conceivable genre. Flipping through the pages, okay, there it was: Spiritual Romance. There were three of us finalists, and it was one of the earlier awards being announced. Good. I’d get it over with early on, either with a win or a loss, and enjoy the rest of the categories, cheering on the folks I’d met and gotten to know over the course of the conference.
I remember the meal was good, although I wasn’t hungry, and a finalist in another category joined us at our table. We chatted about the conference and the fun we’d had in New Orleans. Then, the awards ceremony began. I turned pages in the program as each award was handed out. Before I knew it, it was my category. My mom leaned over and gripped my hand, a smile on her face. The three book titles and author names were announced, then a moment of silence while the announcer opened an envelope (yes, just like the Oscars!) and then…
“Preacher Man by Laurie Larsen!”
I won! I won! I remember my dad making a pleased “ah ha!” sound and my mom smiling so happily at me. I stood and walked carefully to the stage, my head spinning. The last thing I needed now was to trip! But no, I didn’t trip. I looked out over the faces, smiled, and then recited my oft-repeated acceptance speech. Someone handed me the trophy and I lifted it over my head and returned to my seat amidst applause.
The ceremony continued on, but I stared at my trophy and my certificate, my hands shaking, my heart racing, my mother’s smile beaming my way. I’d done it. I’d written a spiritual romance, my first one, and this was my reward. God was telling me … write more of these. You have stories to tell, and we can partner to tell meaningful stories about love and faith.
I have won several more writing awards since this big day, but none involved a red carpet moment like this one. It’s an experience I tuck away fondly in my memory bank of this amazing journey of being a published author that God has led me on. I thank Him for bringing me here and together, we’ll continue to put stories out there.
Discussion: Do you have a red carpet story? Have you ever accepted an award? Given an acceptance speech? Have you ever been to New Orleans? What were your favorite parts of that historic city?
I’ll choose one random commenter to receive a copy of Preacher Man, any format you want (ebook or paperback). This includes international guests. I’ll pick the winner on Tues May 25.
**Heartwarming, life-changing Christian fiction.** An award-winning author, Laurie is living her dream life at the beach, writing novels. Laurie writes beachy inspirational romance that takes place in the South Carolina Low Country. She retired from the big day job and now focuses on writing full time. Strolls on the sand, soaking up the sun and riding the waves can be considered the best kind of research.
I do not have a red Capet story. I’ve never visited New Orleans. No acceptance speech either. I’m boring🤣
I guess the closest I’ve been to the red carpet was in college when I did a lot of acting. The applause at the end of a show is very gratifying. I’ve had a few work-related awards along the way but nothing quite like taking a bow with your fellow actors.
I just finished Preacher Man (for which, brava!) so no need to include me in the give-away.
No red carpet story. Closest I’ve been to Louisiana is Texas.
No red carpet experiences and no to New Orleans.
I have won a trophy in field hockey. Our team had the Helen Davey Memorial award. (Helen passed away from cancer but was a big part of the hockey club all 8 kids played as did she). The award isn’t for best player or most improved. its for the best team player being supportive and helpful in the team. Ironically the year I won it no one took photos and thankfully no speech. I was excited I have a brother who was good at sport and academically and popular. He often got trophies for different sports and also for school. I wasn’t good at sport or at school. I tried hard at hockey and loved playing but was never going to get a trophy for being best and fairest. Getting this trophy meant a lot as it was Helen who asked me to come and play (as an adult). She came to our outreach group that had just started at church and I played in the same team as her for many years.
What a lovely story! I have to answer no to all of your questions, but New Orleans is on a bucket list!
Haha, what a great story! I have no experience on the Red Carpet. I don’t remember a cup either. I’ve also never been to New Orleans, but I guess that has to do with the fact that I don’t live in the U.S. The funny thing is that I do incorporate such things into my own stories. Hopefully one day it will come to pass (lol). Thank you for this post!
Not boring! :) I bet you can think of a significant moment you’ve experienced even if it doesn’t invole an award!
Lincoln, acting! Congrats on your talent! I’m a huge theater fan but NOT as an actor! I’m the one sitting in the audience with the goosebumps, cheering for the actors.
Thanks for your kind words about Preacher Man. Glad you enjoyed it.
Maybe you’ll get a chance to get to NOLA someday. Definitely worth visiting at least once.
Hi Laurie! What an inspiring story. Way to go. The only award that sticks out in my memory, was a Giraffe Award present by our high school’s assistant principal at our end of the school year presentation. As the World Language Chairperson, the World Language Department had an International Film Festival for French, German, and Spanish classes. The classes chose the best videos and then we had an evening festival, where students and parents could view the videos and vote on the best video. Therefore I stuck out my neck to gain funding and plan the event, the first for our school and received the Giraffe Award at the end of year. Best wishes and happy writing.
Oh that’s a wonderful story Jenny! I can definitely see you winning an award for supporting and encouraging others! It’s such an important role to play within any team.
Thank you Paula Marie! I haven’t been back but I’ll always have very fond of NOLA!
Thank you Marilene! It sure was a memorable weekend. I hope you get a chance to visit NOLA some day!
Renate, that sounds like a challenging event to put together. I’m so glad they recognized you with the Giraffe Award!
I have never had a red carpet moment or won an award. I also have never been to New Orleans. Thanks for sharing your special day!
Lori I’m sure that there are innumerable talents you have that are worthy of an award! Have a great day!
What an amazing trip. Yes, it is quite exhilarating to be recognised for excellence and I did trip but only slightly on the way to the dais, but for a moment there my stomach droppef before I recovered my dignity. Here’s to many more well deserved accolades for you. I’ve never been to New Orleans.
wow what a wonderful story. I had tears for you. Your husband? Well all I can say is: he missed a fabulous time in your life. I’m glad you called your parents. This sounds like a wonderful story and I would love to read it. Yes I had a red carpet day. I was in 4-H. I had a Shorthorn heifer who was my joy. Burgundy Rose. At one fair, we showed a few times over the week. Nothing happened other than learning about being in a ring. And having a blast. I fell asleep against Burgundy’s side one day I was so tired. Two reporters saw it and took pictures and my three brothers were all to happy to tell them about Burgundy and myself. Well, the last day of showing was for a trophy for the best heifer including the states of CA, NV, AZ. I was so surprised that Burgandy and I were called up for this. Oh I washed her and combed her and talked to her. Yes I was getting my nerves out and she just stood and listened and let me ramble. She was so good like that. I really think she understood me. She was such a good girl. Well the time arrived and there were three of us. One from each state. While we were in the ring, Burgundy were periodically rub her head against me as if to say “its ok, we got this” That really helped with my nerves. Finally the three of us lined up in front of the judges. One of the judges talked about the good points of each of our heifers. Then someone from the crowd blew a loud honking horn. Sigh. Really? Well the other two heifers just stood there but Burgundy bolted for the gate. Dad went after her, and found her where she has been staying. I felt so discouraged. We were doing so good up to that point. But surprise of surprises, Burgundy and I were the winners. Oh m y goodness. Now the two of us would go onto State, where all fifty states participated. Oh but I was floating for weeks. But we had a lot of work to do. It was only a month away. It was huge. I had never seen so many cattle in such a small place before. Intimidating. In this one we went into the ring with first those from CA. Yup we didn’t do so good here. There were some fabulous cows showing. That’s alright. My mom, Burgundy and I did have a good time for this week. Both will be in my memories for life. What an experience for a ten year old.
I’ve not had a red carpet moment, but I have won some things before. I’ve never been to New Orleans, but I have been to Louisiana before. I’ve been to Vegas, does that count?? Lol!!
So glad you didn’t trip! Although you could’ve had your own Jennifer Lawrence moment, tripping up the stairs to the stage to accept her Oscar! Haha.
Lori, thank you so much! And what awesome memories you formed showing Burgundy Rose! I was a 4H’er too for several years with a horsemanship club. Great experiences for kids to have!
Vegas counts! Haha.
No to all questions. I’m pretty boring. 😂
No you’re not! You’re a reader, for one thing, and that makes you anything but boring! And if they gave out trophies for the hobby/interest that you have, then I am sure that you would win one. Have a nice day!
No to all the questions.
Thanks for reading and commenting. Have a great day!
That’s such a cool story! I do not have a Red Carpet story, nor have I yet been to New Orleans. I think its so fun to have these awards events though and would love to sometime attend one where an audience is allowed. Thanks for sharing and for the chance to win!
Wow a “true” Red Carpet story!! No story here but the biggest award I’ve ever won was “Student of the Year” from the University of Illinois (Business College)! Loved your story!! New Orleans is on my bucket list for sure!!
Thank you Megan! That would be fun to invite super readers to author award ceremonies to add to the festive environment!
Wow! That was a great honor. Congratulations!
No, no and no :-) Honestly, I’ve never wanted to go to New Orleans.
I enjoyed your story, how wonderful that you won the award! And that your mom & dad were able to be a part of it to celebrate with you. What an exciting time!
I have never been to New Orleans but I’d like to.
I received an award for my studies, years ago. Thankfully I did not have to give a speech.
Thank you Trixi! I’m glad you enjoyed my story.
Hi Mary! Yes, put it on your bucket list. It’s definitely worth going once!
It wasn’t a red carpet , but as a child I won a Schwin bike and had to accept it on a child’s tv show. The people with stage makeup didn’t look like they usually did on tv. This was probably 55 years ago. I was disappointed I didn’t get the bike only a piece of paper. We took the paper to the bike store. I finally got my bike several days later after the bike guy put the bike together. I rode it for years.
I won an award at work and walked a stage, at the time it set a company record. This was 29 years ago.
I won a coloring contest as a 2-year-old. I have no memory of the event, but the trophy sat on my dresser for years as a kid. My artistic skills haven’t developed much past toddler-level, however. Bahahaha!
Sorry Laurie, I didn’t mean your book, I meant I enjoyed this post about your win for your story. I can see what I said might have been confusing. So I wanted to clarify :-)
Maybe some day in the future….
I haven’t been to New Orleans.
I have to answer no to all your questions. Thank you for the opportunity. I am so glad you had a wonderful time as well as winning the award.
I have gotten an award for volunteering at my daughter’s school & had a big event for getting our awards with photos with the school board leaders. Never had to do a speech though. I’ve never been to New Orleans. But I’m in the country where there a lot of history around & the city starts 30 minutes away & it’s the capital of our country.
I have to say No to all the questions Loved the post Would Love to go to New Orleans someday!
No I’m with ya! Glad you enjoyed my red carpet story! ;)
Wow! You won an award on TV! How exciting! (Altho nervewracking!)
Congratulations! You must’ve been so excited!
Hahaha, that’s priceless! :)
Put it on your bucket list to visit.
Thanks so much Debra!
Congrats on your volunteer award! So glad they recognized you all.
Thank you so much Sarah! I hope you get there too.
What a beautiful story! I’m currently enjoying your Pawleys Island Boxset, by the way. :-)
I’ve never won any big awards except the Grade 6 award & a sport award. I never have left Canada so I have never been there.
Thanks Milla! And I hope you love Pawleys Island Paradise!
Well, first of all, congrats on being a double award winner in Grade 6! :) I’ve only made it to Canada twice, I believe, in my lifetime as an American, so I can relate.