How to Pitch Your Self-Published Children’s Book to Indie Stores In Person (Without Feeling Salesy)

If you're a self-published children's book author looking to grow beyond Amazon, in-person pitching can be an effective way to get your book into indie bookstores, gift shops, and local boutiques.

It might feel intimidating, but with the right approach, you can make a great impression without feeling awkward or pushy. Here’s exactly what’s worked for me.

Before anything else, buy something. It shows you’re a real customer, not just there to pitch. If possible, grab a children’s book—you’ll learn what titles the shop already carries, how yours compares, and you can count it as market research, which is a business write-off.

Then at checkout, try saying:

Can I get your advice on something? I’m a local children’s book author and brought a copy of one of my books. I was wondering if your shop ever supports indie authors, and what’s the best way to share a book with the buyer?

This approach is thoughtful, low-pressure, and gives them a chance to help. Even if they’re not the buyer, they might love your book and advocate for it.

If the timing feels right, also ask:

Is the buyer or owner in today?

If they are, great—you can introduce yourself directly. If not, ask for their name or contact info and leave your book behind with a postcard or sell sheet.

Tip: Take a photo of any business card or handwritten info so you don’t lose it.

Keep a small pitch kit in your car or bag. You never know when you’ll stumble into a shop that’s a perfect fit. Bring:

• A clean copy of your book
• A postcard or flyer with your contact info, ISBN, and wholesale price
• A printed or digital link to your Faire shop or catalog
• A pen (in case they want it signed)
• A friendly attitude and your story

Follow Up the Same Day

Send a brief email after your visit. Keep it personal and include:

• A thank you
• Who you spoke to and where
• A link to your wholesale info or Faire page
• A reminder that you’re happy to sign stock as a local author

Don’t wait too long. Following up while the conversation is still fresh makes all the difference.

✅ Buy something before you pitch (a children’s book if possible)

✅ Ask kindly for their advice, it builds trust

✅ Ask for the buyer or owner

✅ Always give your pitch, even if they aren’t the decision-maker

✅ Leave your book and a postcard

✅ Get a name and follow up that same day

✅ Keep your pitch kit in your car. You never know when you’ll find the perfect store

This strategy has helped me get into multiple retailers across the US. Once you get into a few stores, it will give other stores validation and social proof and will get the ball rolling.

Want Help Pitching Your Book?

If you want support creating your pitch kit, knowing what to say, or building confidence with in-person outreach, I’d love to help.

Book a 1:1 coaching session with me and let’s get your book into more stores!