Book Signing at Stew Leonard's This Past Weekend!
I Signed Six Hundred Books on Saturday!
This past Saturday was very busy for me. In the morning, I traveled to Hamden, CT, where we shot a television segment at a tree farm. Then, we drove to Norwalk, CT, where I was to sign copies of my new book, Martha Stewart’s Cooking School at the store, Stew Leonard’s. And I’ll tell you more about this amazing food store soon.
Stew Leonard’s and I sort of ‘grew up’ together. The store opened its doors in 1969 and I started shopping there when I first moved to neighboring Westport, CT, and I was a ‘big’ customer when I had my catering business. The Leonard’s and I have been friends all this time so I was thrilled when they asked if I’d be interested in doing a book signing. This event was a big success. Stew Leonard’s purchased hundreds of copies of my book and was selling them for a discounted price. The doors opened at 1 PM and there was a steady stream of patrons until closing time at 3 PM. When all was tallied up, the total number of books signed was 600! And yes, my hand and arm do get tired, but I love it! Then, I was off to my next event – the Bar Mitzvah of the son of good friends.
Hi Martha, I am so enjoying your blog... how I wish I could be at a book signing. I used to attend book signings often when I lived in South Africa but here in Egypt, the opportunity never presents itself... have you ever considered coming here to sign some books? Is there any way I can order a book from your company directly and get you to sign it for me before it gets shipped? I know it's a long shot but you never know until you ask.... from your devoted fan suffering in Egypt...
Posted by: Robyn Kadis | December 8th, 2008 at 2:55 am
MARTHA---I remember my Aunt Karen taking me to Stew Leonard's amazing store years ago when I visited her in Litchfield. I still remember the dancing Chicita Banana audiomatrons they had for a display...unbelievable! A simply sensational retail operation! Thank you for sharing! All The Best, Jonathan Brown
Posted by: Jonathan Brown | December 8th, 2008 at 4:06 am
Hi Martha, Your blog is always interesting to read, I live in NJ and am looking forward to finding a Stew Leonard's not too far away. Your book signings look like so much fun, often I read of signings where no pictures are allowed, or no talking to the author, etc. When the public buys a book and waits in line I think they should have a really enjoyable experience and it looks like you make it worthwhile! Went to your show a couple weeks ago and loved it, I have been a fan for many years and a charter subscriber to your magazine. All the best!!
Posted by: Susan Raisch | December 8th, 2008 at 4:35 am
Martha,
I've been to Stew Leonards many times when I lived in FF Co. Also loved "The Amazing Store" located near the Westport Stews in Norwalk. Good times/memories...bring on the holidays!
Posted by: tinay | December 8th, 2008 at 4:41 am
Oh man! I wish I could go to one of your book signings. Do you have plans to come to Nashville anytime soon?
Posted by: Renee Fitzgerald | December 8th, 2008 at 4:52 am
It looks like an amazing time Martha! Sharkey and Francesca look like they had fun as well. That cheese looks like it was very tasty!
Posted by: Kari | December 8th, 2008 at 6:42 am
Wow, Martha your book signings look like so much fun. I bet everyone leaves thrilled over the experience and how gracious a signer you are. What a reward after the scheduling and commitments all the people in line must make to arrive in time to have a book signed by you. Thanks so much taking the time and energy to make the event fun.
Posted by: Margie | December 8th, 2008 at 6:59 am
Good Morning Martha:
Having your Cooking School book personally signed, that's pretty special! I just can't even begin to imagine signing that many books.
I'll have to tell Santa to look for a discount if he doesn't have enough funds to buy me the Cooking School book for Christmas, otherwise I'll be so disappointed.
Betsy
Posted by: Betsy Mech | December 8th, 2008 at 7:26 am
Martha,
It was an event on my schedule for weeks. I came down with the flu and did not want to give it to anyone. I hope to see you book dates on the tour in Boston. I plan to buy the book for my library soon. It looked like a well- attended, highly organized and fun event. It must be so rewarding to inspire kids about cooking! I cook with kids of all ages as often as I can.
Posted by: Teresa Touey | December 8th, 2008 at 8:40 am
We love you so much, Martha! - look at all the people who came out to see you! This particular book-signing seemed warm and inviting, and personal - I guess because of the lit fire in the fireplace, the holiday decorations, closer quarters (the conference room), etc. Leonard's store appears to be warm and cozy, and I LOVE (and thrive in) that type of atmosphere!
It was nice, too, that names were retrieved from your photo subjects...I'm sure they'll be delighted to see their rightful names mentioned on your blog (I know I would!) The light-up billboard was a good true-to-life likeness of you, too!...pretty cool! (AND the b-e-s-t way to advertise...)
Well, it sure looks like this was a well-orchestrated event! I have always said that organization is the key to success (one of the many, at least), and they surely did a fabulous job preparing for you as their guest!
(...those lucky attendees!)
=^..^=
Posted by: Cindy Bricker | December 8th, 2008 at 9:45 am
Hi Martha, What a fabulous blog about a fabulous person during a fabulous event! I always wanted to attend one of your book signings and this blog is the next best "Good Thing"! It really did feel like I was right there. Your photos are again fantastic and you look so gorgeous. This is what I would call a very positive event at a great location. I love Francesca and Sharkey's coats. They look like they were having as much fun as everyone in attendance. Smiles galore! It just makes you forget all your problems. Thanks so much for sharing. Jan
Posted by: Jan Erickson | December 8th, 2008 at 9:49 am
I was so happy to meet you at Stew's, Martha! I've posted a few photos from the signing on my blog, too. Have a happy week. Warmly, Cathy ^..^
Posted by: Cathy Santarsiero | December 8th, 2008 at 10:26 am
Hi Martha,
Speaking of book signing, I still have the book you signed for me! I had you sign your favorite book, "Martha Stewart Gardening." The inside reads, "To Emily, Future Little Miss Martha, Martha Stewart." Thanks for your vote of confidence after all these years. Merry Christmas
Richard, Emily, Charlotte, Anne-Louise, Claire and Baby Adele BluBabes
Posted by: BluBabe | December 8th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
Hello Martha,
We were also at Broken Arrow on Saturday to cut our Christmas tree. We missed an opportunity to say "Hi" then, but are looking forward to seeing your visit on TV. Have you been to the nursery in warm weather? Great plants and a spectacular view!
Merry Christmas from the woods of Bethany, CT
Posted by: obscure | December 8th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
It is good to see you post more book signing blogs, nice to know you are enjoying the gigs.
Which assistant left you, Kate? I hope she is doing something more exciting to have left your employ now that's a cool gig one of the assistants to MS!
Looks like a fun time.
Pam from California
Posted by: Pam from California | December 8th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Dear Martha:
Please don't take this the wrong way, but you remind me of someone I have idolized since I can remember and that is Andy Warhol. Certainly not because of any resemblance, but because Andy's life was always on the go and he was endlessly curious about so many things.
Have you ever read the Andy Warhol diaries? It's fascinating and impossible to put down. I find you equally interesting. The Martha Stewart diaries would have people lined up around the block.
Posted by: Mike | December 8th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
Love for you to come to Mississippi, I have many of your books, and would love to be at a book signing! I sure your hand hurts! Thanks for the cookie widget.
Posted by: lady katherine | December 8th, 2008 at 7:11 pm
Hello Martha, I enjoy reading your blog but did I miss something? Where is Liesel? I so enjoyed her lovely wedding photos. Merry Christmas!!!
Posted by: Brenda | December 8th, 2008 at 7:18 pm
I am soooo enjoying your new book..bought one for a gift also.
You are an awesome woman..so gifted in so many areas, I marvel. Have to TiVo your show..a must.
I would not however, like to hear your politics, please. I'm human and I just want to be entertained and learn from you...please.
I'm 64 and still learning, and hopefully still teachable! HA!
Thanks again for all you bring to my home!
Merrrrry Christmas!!!
Posted by: Ann | December 9th, 2008 at 5:20 am
I recently purchased Martha Stewart 500 count sheets at KMart..........fantastic. They are generously sized and wash beautifully. Keep it up. I will buy more.........
Posted by: bev fillmore | December 9th, 2008 at 5:23 am
I love how you appeal and inspire all age groups! Looks like it was a full and busy weekend, Martha.
Posted by: Sherey | December 9th, 2008 at 6:18 am
Martha, LOVE your show every day, a looonnngg time fan, have all your books, hope Santa brings me the Cooking School. I will get some for gifts to give to special people.
PLEASE come to Bangor, ME for a book signing @ Borders when you come to ME for a visit. You know how beautiful it is in the winter! We have snow now falling so gently to get us into the mood for holiday preparations.
Tree is decorated, cards sent with help from Martha's great glitter, garland and wreaths are up, party is Sunday the 14th @ 2pm. Hope you have a wonderful restful holiday......Come to MAINE!
Jan from Winterport, ME
Posted by: Janet Bruehl | December 9th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Martha,
I have often thought how you put your business together and the level of success you have achieved. I admire that about you.
I just opened a boutique in Rutherford, NJ. Our boutique is unique due to the fact that 90% of our merchandise is handcrafted by local artists and vary from photography to candles.
I would very much like to have a book signing at my boutique.
Please let me know how I would go about setting one up.
Thank you for all your help.
Posted by: Carmela Staiano | December 13th, 2008 at 10:33 am
Hello Martha;
I am a long time fan, I L O V E your show and everything you present. I also admire how much you love all of your animals and how much care you provide for them. That I call TRUE love. I want to find out if you ever come to California and if so would you help my partner and I in our business and giving us insights on how to become successful in this recession time. I am trying to find ways of having her dream become a success story and to avoid her father's memory dissolve in the air. As the restaurant we opened a year ago is in his memory. PLEASE HELP US.
Sincerely,
Alma & Jo
Posted by: AlmaSandoval1@msn.com | December 15th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Merry Christmas Martha,
Just wanted to let you know that this Christmas morning one of the things both of my college-age granddaughters received was a copy of your cooking school book! I can't tell you how delighted they were (ages 23 & 21.) Very often when they are away at school they phone their mother or me (grandmother) to ask how to prepare such & such etc., so, "Santa" thought it would be a good idea to get them into your cooking school for lessons. They loved their very own book, and I'm sure they will put it to good use thruout their cooking journeys.
Posted by: Barbara Griffiths | December 25th, 2008 at 2:09 pm
Hi, Martha,
Those 600 are so lucky!
Kathy
Posted by: Kathy | December 27th, 2008 at 11:35 am