Here are a few words from attendees and guests about The Imaginarium Convention
2024 Testimonials and Quotes
“Imaginarium Convention 2024 far exceeded my expectations. Holly and Steve proved how every genre plays a role in expressing creativity. I met so many wonderful people, explored an array of vendors, taught fiction writing, viewed movies, enjoyed the entertainment, and served on a variety of interesting panels. Highly recommend for all types of writers.” – DiAnn Mills, 2024 Guest of Honor
“After years away from my writing life, I knew attending Imaginarium would jumpstart my career – meeting other authors in my genre, hearing about the latest trends in publishing, and reaffirming that I have something to contribute to the community. What I hadn’t realized was how the connections I made there would change my life and give me greater confidence as a writer.” – LJ Mack, Author
“Last weekend was one of the best experiences of my life! Imaginarium was all about sharing creative visions and building connections with amazing authors, artists, dancers, musicians, readers, filmmakers, and journalists. I’ll forever cherish these memories and look forward to next year’s Imaginarium. I can’t wait to see everyone’s new projects and share my own artistic visions. Thank you for all the congrats and kindness at my first film festival!” – W.W. Mitchell, Author and Screenwriter
“Others said they get more out of Imaginarium than just about any other writer’s conference they attend. I found most of the workshops I attended very beneficial. Thanks for bringing in some top-notch people!” – Alan Goldstein, Author and Journalist
“Friendly staff, friendly attendees. A low-impact “family” atmosphere. Lots of chances to learn and network. I’m glad I went.” – Steve Jackson, Steve Jackson Games and 2024 Imaginator Guest
2023 Testimonials and Quotes
“Imaginarium has been an amazing experience over the years. I always come home encouraged, and ready to dive back into my projects. There are always new tips and tricks, as well as the reinforcement of ideas that I know, but need to be reminded of. It’s a place to recharge and learn and grow in your craft.” – Brian Ronk, Author and Attendee
“It was my first year to attend and it was really something special, the 10 year anniversary! I made some amazing connections with new and experienced authors, editors and publishers, and it really felt like I’d been coming for years. It was home! I’ll be back, and hopefully one day as an author and panelist!” – Brittany Snyder, Attendee
“The Imaginarium Conference was one of the best events I have ever attended. There were many panels and presentations to choose from for any type of artist and, as a vendor, I could not have asked for a better outing: I sold out of merchandise! I highly recommend Imaginarium.” – Lawrence Weill, Author
“We met publishers and a ton of authors and hopeful authors. Invitations were extended to all to attend our meetings. I’m sure we’ll get a speaker or two out of this.” – Derby Rotten Scoundrels, Mystery Writers Group of Louisville, Kentucky
“I can’t wait for next year! If you were there, let’s connect! And I love talking craft. What a great convention.” – Morgan Hazelwood, Author and Panelist
“I’m so thankful to have the encouragement and enrichment that the like-minded people of this convention provide. Thank you all and thank you Imaginarium!” – Dwan L. Heard, Author, Screenwriter, and attendee.
“The amount of workshops and panels are overwhelming. My writing has gone to a new level after attending them. Two years in a row I have won an award for my screenplays and can’t wait to attend next year.” – Adam Poulos, Screenwriter
“I had an amazing time at Imaginarium 2023, participating in the festival and convention as well as being on several different panels. Excellent communication and very well organized. Couldn’t ask for anything more. The networking was outstanding and I met a lot of very talented authors, filmmakers, and performers. I just want to thank Stephen Zimmer, Erik Kyr, Holly Phillippe, and everyone at Imaginarium. Thank you!” – Adam Sergent, Filmmaker
“This is my NINTH year of attending the #ImaginariumConvention But I have to say that this was the BEST one yet.
While there were several situations, numerous conversations, and many, many panels that contributed, I have never, ever felt that I belonged, felt so loved, or felt so cared for in my ENTIRE LIFE as I did this past weekend.
Imaginarium isn’t just a convention and it’s not just a gathering of “like minded individuals.” It’s a family. And ever year is a family reunion. (Of course we have that one weird uncle, but we won’t single him out here LOL)
I am honored to be a part of such a wonderful, caring, and TALENTED group of awesome people. Thank you for allowing me to be part of the Imaginarium Tribe.
I am already counting the days until 2024.” – Carma Haley Shoemaker, Author and Panelist
“You know what’s so amazing about the Imaginarium Convention ? It’s It’s the people. Genuinely kind, helpful, and generous people. It’s less a conference and more like a family reunion. This is MY tribe.” – Lisa Mildon, Author and attendee
“Imaginarium Convention 2023 has been a much-needed, reinvigorating event. Like a family reunion. The unfathomable level of talent all gathered under a single roof.
Beyond blessed to be welcomed here.” – Nathan Day, Author and Panelist
2014-2022 Testimonials
“Imaginarium was a pleasure to attend. It was well organized and informative and provided encouragement to all levels of creatives in writing, gaming, art, and film. And most important of all, it was fun.”– Ellen Datlow, multi-award-winning editor
“And that’s Imaginarium in a nutshell: there’s always so much to share and so much to learn from others, and the convention staff have consistently provided an atmosphere that nurtures true fellowship and a deep sense of belonging. My heart and my imagination are so full right now as I think back on all our conversations this weekend!” – Sara Marian, Author and Publisher
“As usual, the convention was inspiring and uplifting for me. I’m ready to write 10 novels! I must type faster! (But the vendor hall was a rousing success for me this year. As an exhibitor, I sold 21 books off my table and exceeded my goal for e-newsletter signups. This was a great year!” – Sandy Lender, Award-winning author
“It was a pleasure to attend Imaginarium 2020 Virtual Conference and Convention. It was my first time attending and it was an absolute delight. It was one of the best knowledge sharing and networking events that I have attended. Not only was I blown away by the meaningful content that the convention offered but I had fun.
The sessions were informative, and I benefited from the knowledge, experience, and personal insights that the dynamic speakers brought to the table. They shared, engaged, and responded to the participants, all of which were pivotal to the success of the convention. Kudos to the organizer for getting it right!” –Ann Marie Bryan, Author & Editor
Imaginarium has always had interesting panels on writing and craft in the past, and it was good to see that the virtual 2020 convention carried on in the same tradition. Excellent discussions on useful topics, and with panels being recorded, one could watch panels later as well as live. The networking opportunities were there as well, via Zoom room parties or messages at virtual booths. Virtual Imaginarium 2020 went very well. –Kathryn Sullivan, Author
“My experience with the Virtual Imaginarium Convention was delightful. It was my first time as a panelists and my moderator did a great job! After a few technical difficulties on the first day, things got tightened up and flowed much smoother. Certainly, I would have rather seen everyone in person, but under the circumstances this was a successful convention.” – author Edale Lane/Melodie Romeo
The Imaginarium Convention 2018 was a fabulous experience. Support for authors and artists was on display the entire time. It was a weekend of inclusion and creativity. Combining books, film and gaming made for a weekend with something for everyone. Well organized and filled with happy people doing what they love—doesn’t get much better than that! – Robyn Peterman, NYT and USA Today bestselling author, and Imaginarium 2018 Guest of Honor
“Lively, well managed, and totally welcoming, Imaginarium is the largest and (I believe) the best among a nice array of Louisville speculative arts conventions. Creative people are spoiled at and by the event, so that you come away wistful for the gathering and wishing it could go on and on. Informative book panels, a strong film track, and a wide assortment of gaming venues–to be honest, what’s not to like?” – Michael Williams, Author
It’s true what they say, it’s all about who you know not what you know. Thanks to my attendance at Imaginarium (three years and counting!) I have met fabulous people that I look forward to seeing year after year, all of whom have taught me something about this crazy world we call publishing. I’ve been introduced to new publishers, new readers, and I even just released my first audio book thanks to a contact I made at Imaginarium. I have made some of my best industry friends through this convention and it is one of the weekends I look forward to the most year after year.” – Randi Perrin, Author
“Everyone looks for a place to grow and be empowered. We search for Network, Community, Friends, and Family. For me that place is the Imaginarium Convention. For years I had felt mediocre with my writings; scared to let the world see, in fear of criticism. But it was the people of this amazing community that instilled in me the hunger to go forward. My first Imaginarium, back in 2016, was the start of a journey that I will forever walk the path of. As long as there is an Imaginarium Convention, you will always find me in attendance.” – Sheridan C. Hall Author of “Chonicles of The Suit”
2018 was the first Imaginarium I attended…but it won’t be the last. It was wonderful to be among so many creative and kind people who wanted to share ideas and energy and experiences and knowledge and information and tips. My outlet for creativity is speculative fiction writing, but I found the whole atmosphere interesting whether someone was talking about film projects or cover designs or even tax write-offs. There was something worth writing down every time I turned around, and I came home energized to write write WRITE. – Sandy Lender, Fantasy Author
There are few places that I can go and feel at home. The Imaginarium Convention in Louisville Ky. is definitively one of those places. From the first one that I walked into three years ago they made me feel better than family and I instantly became one of the tribe. A tribe of creatives that support and care for each other not in the what can you do for me today, but how can I help YOU accomplish something great. We learn from each other and share amazing ideas on all parts of the business of the Arts from how to get that new huge project financed to getting your first story started. The tribe of Imaginariums could care less if I was a multi-best seller or a fledgling just getting my toes wet in the pond because I have no idea what I am doing. The best thing is they treat everyone to a wonderful time. This year we were entertained by not only the one hundred plus workshops and panels, movie and book awards, but with film screenings and the largest number of performers to date. This year’s is over but two thousand nineteen’s Imaginarium is already on my calendar. I hope that if you are in the Arts in any way it will be of consideration to you. See You There. ~ Daniel Dark, Author of Knife’s Tell Series & Reciepts of the Past Series Victorian Catsup #DarkStyle
Imaginarium is an amazing literary, film and gaming convention. I have attended the last 3 years and always return from the weekend with more knowledge to use in my craft, more contacts and friends, and a better appreciation for these areas. There are a variety of workshops and panels to attend, a marketplace to find new books, pitch sessions with publishers, and much more. If you are looking for a convention with amazing heart, a place to make great friends, learn more about your area of expertise, and also to have a great time, Imaginarium is the place to be. – Kimberly Bush Hoffman, Author
Reflections on The Imaginarium Convention in Louisville, KY: The Imaginarium Convention is an awesome resource for creatives to mingle and connect. It offers a lot in a smaller more personal setting. It allows guest and creatives an opportunity to engage with each other in a very comfortable environment. There is plenty to see and do. And you can learn a lot from the diverse panels that cover most everything. If you are looking for a more personable and creative driven convention than this is the show for you. Having been a guest the last two years I consider it a great opportunity to connect to the community. – Jay Welin, Filmmaker/ Screenwriter /Producer
The 2018 Imaginarium offered me a chance to meet and see how others in my field were accomplishing their goals. The classes were informative and entertaining, and I was able to bring home skills I could put right to use. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience, everyone there was friendly and helpful. – Douglas Daech, Author
“Imaginarium 2017 was the first convention I have had the pleasure of attending as a guest and as a vendor. It was one of the best experiences I have had. The atmosphere was very inviting. The other guests and vendors were very friendly and I made several new friends. The Imaginarium is a great place to network for creatives. I look forward to the years to come and to many more cherished memories to be made. Thank you for having me.” – Timothy Shackelford, Artist
“My first Imaginarium was 2017, and it was a blast. Awesome people, awesome panels and vendors and shows. If you’re into sci-fi/fantasy books or a writer yourself, you’ll love Imaginarium.” – Linda Robertson, Author
“Imaginarium is the perfect convention for anyone interested in “how the sausage is made” in the publishing industry. Get a boost in learning your craft, make contacts, and just have a great time with your friends — and make new ones!” – Dave Creek, Author
“Best event I’ve been to this year by far. I always look forward to Imaginarium and I’m never disappointed. I can’t wait until 2018.” -Victoria Escobar, author and editor.
“Imaginarium 2017 exceeded my expectations. As an attendee, I knew it would be good, especially via word of mouth from my dear friends and authors Marian Allen and Sara Marian Deurell. I have been to several retreats and conferences in past years for poetry and fiction, but never anything as extensive as Imaginarium. After thirteen panel/workshop discussions, my mind was spinning and in a good way. The moderators and panelists were excellent, informative, professional, upbeat and fun to listen to and be around. My brain received a refreshment of information I mislaid over the years in a few of the panels, while in others, I gained new, updated information. One smaller point – authors still hate to write a synopsis and query letter – and I will not be deterred. It was a energized experience filled with talent, but mostly importantly, overflowing with friendly, helpful people. I plan to return for Imaginarium 2018. It’s going to be a long year.” – Barbara Greer, attendee.
“Imaginarium is writing fellowship at its best. Embracing, creative, informative, and fun. This event will be on my calendar every year.” – Teresa Reasor, NYT/USA Today bestselling author of the SEAL Team Heartbreakers
“I’ve been to a lot of conferences and conventions, but nothing compares to Imaginarium and its open armed embrace of all aspects of the creative world. It truly defies all boundaries of medium and/or genre and provides a place for anyone with a creative drive to learn from and teach others. Nothing can rejuvenate your creative drive like being around like minded individuals, and Imaginarium provides that in spades.” – Chasity Bowlin, Bestselling Author
“If you are a writer, especially a genre fiction author, you seriously need to consider attending Imaginarium in Louisville, Kentucky. It is the only convention I have ever attended that specifically caters to those of us hoping to improve our craft and make significant connections. The panels and workshops are important, informative, and fun. The connections formed and/or strengthened are priceless. But for me, the family atmosphere was the reason I will return next year. I don’t mean family-friendly (although it most certainly is), I mean the convention has the feel of a family reunion you actually want to attend, with people you actually like. Oh, and did I mention Kentucky bourbon?” — Michael Knost, Bram Stoker Award®-winner and author of Return of the Mothman.
“Imaginarium was an amazing experience, amazing people, amazing talent from all over coming together in one area all for a purpose of sharing thoughts, ideas and love, as well as to inspire each other to keep going and keep pushing. Imaginarium had all the goods you could want at an event like this, I hope to see it continue to grow.” – Thomas Moore, Filmmaker
“Having participated in a goodly number of conventions over the years (and witnessed my share of SNAFUs), I have to say that the Imaginarium has consistently been the smoothest running event I’ve ever been a part of.” – T. Lee Harris, Production Director, Per Bastet Publications, LLC
“There are thousands of writing aids available in print, but none of them can compete with actually meeting writers, editors and publishers. This aspiring writer learned more in three days of panels and workshops and from listening and talking to these people than he did reading a shelf full of books!
The whole weekend was well organized, well presented and, most importantly, friendly and approachable. My first day’s apprehension dissolved during the first panel and I spent the rest of the weekend trying to cram in as much as possible. I also left the weekend with a dozen books to read 🙂
Thanks for putting this together Stephen, I’m already looking forward to Imaginarium 2016…who knows, next time I might have my own table!” – Mick Williams, attendee
“Attending Imaginarium 2015 was an incredible experience for me. It was my very first Writers Convention and I learned so much! I went from just wanting to write and tell stories, to finally seeing writing as more of a business. It opened my eyes. Everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming! Every panel I attended was definitely more than worth my time. I enjoyed the entire weekend and will most definitely be attending in 2016.” – Anna Moore, attendee
“Imaginarium has been a godsend for me. Not only have I been able to network with so many authors in my genre, but I’ve attended panels have have helped improve my writing. I’ve learned and been able to share what I know with others. With so much to offer writer AND reader alike, I intend to keep going back, year after year.” – Jesse V. Coffey, author
“I’m an upcoming author working on my first book, and I was getting very discouraged and felt lost. I questioned if I would ever finish, and if I did, would I even be able to get it published. When I heard about Imaginarium, I was hopeful but I remained skeptic of myself. I am extremely glad I attended this event. Everyone around me was very welcoming and friendly, which allowed me to learn a lot from them. They were able to provide amazing insight to the industry and from it I gained a lot of confidence in myself. Every question I had, there was a panel or workshop available that answered them. I was also able to met a lot of amazing people that provided additional confidence to finish my work. Before Imaginarium I was lost and doubtful, but after I came home from that one weekend with the confidence and motivation to keep going no matter my doubts. I will cherish the experience and many friendships I gained of like minded people for a lifetime.” – Michael Ruffin, attendee
“Imaginarium allows me to network with a group of people as passionate as they are talented, about the craft of writing.” – Tony Acree, Owner Hydra Publications.
“The Imaginarium Convention is a show with a fresh and unique approach, and one I’ve enjoyed. It’s a fusion of a writer’s conference and an entertainment extravaganza, and one that seems to be growing in scope and enthusiasm with each year.” – Tommy B. Smith, Author
“This year was my first time at Imaginarium. I met a lot of fellow authors and made friends with them. I attended a few panels and workshops and I learned so much over the 3 days. I was sad that it had to end. The time and money I invested in this event was beneficial to me and my writing career. If you go and don’t take anything from this convention, you are doing it all wrong. This was one of the best experiences of my life. I am looking forward to next year. Great job, Stephen!” – Darla Lark, attendee
“Imaginarium, in only its second year proves yet again why it’s not only the premiere convention to attend in Louisville but one of the best in the nation when it comes representing the arts with an emphasis on creative writing.” – Amy McCorkle, author/filmmaker
“Imaginarium 2015 exceeded my expectations with its mixture of the different arts and book genres. I made lots of friends and got great exposure for my books and my publisher as well as having a lot of fun attending the events. I will do it again!” – Barbara Ehrentreu, Author
“While my list of Writing Cons prior to Imaginarium includes only Ravencon in 2009 and 2010. I can say that for a convention only in its second year, Imaginarium, had its act very well put together. From friendly staff and Panelists, to Excellent Writing Workshops and Panels this Con had everything you could want and more… I would highly recommend you give Stephen Zimmer and his gang a shot to impress you with how awesome a party they can throw. So Saddle Up and Ride down to Imaginarium Where your imagination will run wild.” – Abigail Christine Cahoe, attendee
“A weekend filled with everything a creative person could want. Imaginarium is a hit!” – Kim Smith, Author
“Imaginarium was my favorite con the instant I heard Stephen was planning it. Year One (2014) was everything I hoped and Year Two was even better. I’ve been to cons where the staff seemed to think the purpose of the con was to put on a con, and the attendees/guests were irritations. Not so with Imaginarium. Even though the staff works HARD, each staffmember was upbeat, flexible, enthusiastic, and full of what my first-grade teacher used to call “that good old American can-do spirit.” Although the legacy attendees have a special bond, first-timers I invited were impressed with how welcoming everybody was. If I could only attend one event all year, it would be Imaginarium.” – Marian Allen, Author
“I attended Imaginarium with my kids ages 10 and 8. We are all avid readers and enjoy writing creatively. We were able to meet authors who took time to tell us about their books and answer questions (including what is Steam Punk). The panels were eye opening as we heard authors discuss their writing process. The best part is we came away with a deeper love of reading; as well as inspired and encouraged to take our own writing down new paths. My oldest has vowed to write in Steam Punk at school for writing assignments.” – Anna Glenn, attendee
“Imaginarium is vital for writers of any genre and any experience. Both veterans and beginners make themselves available to share their knowledge with other authors — and learn some new tricks themselves!” – Dave Creek, Author
“The panels are great places to learn from and teach fellow authors and readers about almost anything. Imaginarium 2015 inspired my husband to write a song — and he worried he’d be bored at a convention for creative people!” – TammyJo Eckhart, Author
“Imaginarium is unique in its field. It connects the arts in a way no other convention I know of does. Thanks to the staff and organizers for all their hard work!” – H. David Blalock, author
“My second year of entering “the Imaginarium” was a fabulous adventure. I haven’t been to a better organized,more helpful, and friendly convention yet! A blissful mix of literary, film, and fun for every age and genre. Great Job and I’ll see you next year!” – Georgia L. Jones, Author
“Imaginarium is one of those experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. When you experience it once, expect yourself to want to experience it again and again. You’ll make lots of great friends here, and meet lots of interesting people that will broaden your knowledge of the creative field. You will leave a different, better person.” – Vivian Hwang, author
“Going to the Imaginarium Convention was a truly great experience. I volunteered because I had never been on the inside of writing conferences and conventions. I was eager to help! So I totally was not expecting to have an eye-opening, mind-blowing experience. I was blessed to meet some awesome people, see exceptional cover art, and even bought some new books. I was in Heaven. Still, the awesomeness didn’t end there. While listening in on various panels I was learning a lot about myself, my writing habits (both good and bad), and picking up on invaluable tips, suggestions, and advice from professionals. I want to say, my experience didn’t end when the convention was over. Sunday, as the convention was winding down and I was visiting the last few remaining panelist discussions, I got to thinking about my own works in progress and completed stories. I’ll admit, I have been completely blocked on writing the second book of my fantasy series ever since January. I couldn’t for the life of me understand why or what was preventing me from moving on. I really was trying! Due to all that I learned and listened to throughout the Imaginarium Convention, I experienced a major breakthrough with my fantasy series. I am now gung-ho and more excited than ever and I’m no longer experiencing writers block. I’m so, so grateful for having had the opportunity to help and be helped by this wonderful convention. My heart goes out to all those that allowed me to be a part of the experience.” – Michala Tyann, Volunteer and Attendee
“Attending the Imaginarium Convention was an experience that I won’t soon forget. I was given the opportunity to meet wonderful writers, receive valuable advice, and make new friends. The talent gathered during the convention was amazing, and I was so grateful to be a part of it. The panels, workshops, and featured guests were wonderful. Imaginarium will have a reserved spot on my calendar for years to come.” – Carma Haley Shoemaker, Author, Volunteer and Attendee