350 – Storytelling and a Peek into the Life of Heidi Swain, a Simon & Schuster Bestselling Author

Today's show is a bit special ... because it goes live on Christmas day! So I'm doing something a little different with this episode. There are no promotions and only a little bit of learning. How can I not when we have such an expert with us today? Just like last year, Heidi shares an excerpt from her latest book. As well as some behind-the-scenes of her life as an author, her holiday traditions, and even some storytelling tips you can use for your business. Although passionate about writing from an early age, Heidi acquired a degree in literature and flirted briefly with a newspaper career, before plucking up the courage to join a creative writing class and take her literary ambitions seriously. A lover of vintage paraphernalia and the odd bottle of fizz, she now writes feel-good fiction with heart for Simon and Schuster. Her debut novel, The Cherry Tree Café was published in July 2015. And since then she has had a further twelve books published, becoming a Sunday Times Bestseller in 2017. Heidi is currently celebrating the release of her 2021 festive title, Underneath the Christmas Tree, and writing The Summer Fair which will be published next spring. Storytelling Tips From A Published Author When it comes to writing and storytelling, make it personal. Let people know about the inspiration behind a product that makes it authentic. That will resonate with your audience. Don't ignore the senses. If you've got something that smells good or feels good, that's something you really want to highlight. Add those little details that make things all the more appealing and inviting. Inspiration can come from anywhere. Scribble ideas that come to mind that are going to work in different settings. Listen to the full conversation for storytelling tips, a reading from Heidi's latest book, plus a glimpse into her life as an author!  Resources Mentioned Underneath the Christmas Tree by Heidi Swain ep 297 Experience a Holiday Story and Peek into the Life of Bestselling Author Heidi Swain ep 349 Integrating Our Love of Stories into Your Brand with Chloë Thomas Heidi's Contact Links Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses