What was I thinking?!
When I embarked on the journey (5 years ago) to write my seasonal cookbook, Great Food Starts Fresh, I always planned to self-publish so I could take my time with each recipe – ensuring deliciousness, make sure each photo was perfect, and (therefore) design the cookbook of my dreams.
I never really thought about what this would mean on the distribution end, though. I mean, 10,000 books isn’t really THAT many books, is it? Actually, it is. Translation: 4 storage units underground (climate controlled) about 45 minutes outside of L.A. (cheaper), many boxes of tape, sharpies, and return labels, and countless trips to post offices all around the country (I love making new friends!). Today, I had to replenish my stock which means my super-sous and I drove (in separate cars) to the storage unit to “grab” some books (read: 396 books or 1,188 pounds) load them into our cars (read: sweat) and subsequently unload them into my apartment (read: very time consuming). I look forward to the day where I can reclaim my apartment (or as we have been calling it – the office supply/book warehouse) and walk freely without a fun book maze taking me everywhere (have you ever seen the movie Labyrinth?).
Oh, Nathan of years ago, if I could only have a wise word with you now…
Thank goodness for my super-sous who always makes things more fun and, of course, trusted Latte who is never more than a sip away.
Chef Nathan Lyon 
Chef Nathan — You need to visit the Dane County Farmers’ Market in Madison, Wisconsin, when it reconvenes this spring. No excuses. Either you bring your TV crew with you, or you slip away and stay at a local B & B that’ll give you kitchen privileges. From your TV shows and your cookbook (great fun, by the way), I know you’re an East Coast/West Coast guy. All that fresh seafood. Time you visited us in Flyover Country.
It can be a bit overwhelming at times…no doubt. But here I am looking at the last stack of my 10,000 books…less than about 1000 or so left. It’s just like the old adage, “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” You have an amazing, beautiful cookbook that literally sells itself. You just need to give it some time…they will sell.
Keep smiling brother man…keep smiling!
Gesundheit!
One word…no make that two words: Distribution Center.
You need something like this: http://www.flexlogistics.com
It may cost you but you are already paying for storage, shipping, etc. The cost may even out when you consider the cost of YOUR own “time” spent on the process.
It’ll be cheaper than therapy, chiropractic bills, gas, stamps, ulcers…
I’ve had clients who have switched to these with a huge sigh of relief.
Thank you Martha… You’re welcome Nate. 😉
Love you!