First Time Authors
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out first time authors events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the first time authors events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find first time authors events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
First Time Authors Events Today
Join in-person First Time Authors events happening right now
Shut Up & Write!™ Easton Town Center
We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator.
Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking!
• What we'll do
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings.
Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
SCHEDULE:
10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros.
10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour.
11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing.
OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing.
BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer.
Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you!
• What to bring
Whatever you need to be able to write!
Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible.
See you at The Café on Saturday!
Optimistic Orators Toastmasters speaking club
Optimistic Orators Toastmasters non-profit speech improvement group. No materials needed.
The War Room: Intro to War Gaming at The Arcane Foundry ($15 Regiment)
**⚔️ Introduction to Wargaming & Painting Miniature Soldiers at The Arcane Foundry ⚔️**
Join me in **The War Room at [The Arcane Foundry](https://share.google/S5i6DYJnJteHWeKtd)** for a laid-back evening of hobby talk and tabletop fun! For just **$15**, you’ll get a **3D-printed regiment of 20 high quality resin models** of your choice to paint — a **$40 value!** Bring your creativity, relax, and let’s make something awesome together.
**Choose one from Below:**
* 20 Orc Warriors
* 20 Empire Soldiers
* 20 Dwarf Warriors
* 20 Elf Spearmen
Step into a world where strategy meets artistry — and where every painted figure tells a story of battle, honor, and imagination. Join **Daclaud** at **The Arcane Foundry** for an evening that introduces newcomers and enthusiasts alike to the timeless craft of **tabletop wargaming** and **miniature painting**.
My own journey began with a fascination for fantasy — knights in armor, grim and hardened warriors, and monstrous creatures locked in epic battle. That passion led me to **Dungeons & Dragons**, where I painted my first **Basic Heroes set** and felt the spark that comes from bringing a character to life in miniature form. Not long after, I discovered **Warhammer Fantasy** and **Warhammer 40,000**, and I was hooked. The vision of vast armies clashing across the table — each unit meticulously painted, each story unfolding through dice and imagination — became my creative obsession.
During this event, we’ll explore the **origins of wargaming**, from its early military simulations to the richly detailed worlds of modern tabletop battle systems. You’ll learn how to **build and customize your own armies**, paint your first figures, and experience the joy of turning strategy and storytelling into a hands-on art form.
Whether you’re drawn by the lore, the hobby, or the thrill of commanding miniature legions, this introduction will open the gates to a world that has captivated hobbyists for generations.
**🎨 RSVP today and join us at The Arcane Foundry — where every brushstroke and battle tells a story.**
The Fit Experience: February Edition
🌿 The Fitness Experience 🌿
This is not just a workout—it’s a vibe.
The Fitness Experience is a high-energy, feel-good outdoor fitness meetup designed for every body and every level. Whether you’re just getting started, getting back into it, or already living an active lifestyle, this experience meets you where you are and pushes you just enough to level up.
Expect movement, fresh air, challenges, laughter, and real community. We sweat together, encourage each other, and stay accountable—because consistency is easier with friends!
Motivation with meaning:
✨ Show up for yourself
✨ Progress over perfection
✨ Consistency creates confidence
Each month, we pop up at a new scenic outdoor location—parks, waterfronts, city greenspaces, and hidden urban gems—bringing fitness to life in the most inspiring settings possible.
Come solo. Bring a friend. Leave energized.
First Time Authors Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Shut Up & Write!® Easton Town Center
We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator.
Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking!
• What we'll do
Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays.
Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done.
SCHEDULE:
12:00 - quick intros.
12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour.
1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing.
OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing.
BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer.
Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you!
• What to bring
Whatever you need to be able to write!
Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible.
See you at The Café on Sunday!
Taylor Farm Hike
*****Short Notice***** This Saturday the weather is predicted to be nicer!
Let’s take at walk Saturday morning 2/28/2026 ( last day of the month) at 10:00a. Meet at Taylor Farms Park ( all paved) 5526 E Dublin Granville Rd in the parking lot
Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations.
If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!).
**HOW IT WORKS**
**Step 1: Bring a topic**
Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event.
**Step 2: Circle up & share**
We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds.
**Step 3: Walk, talk & float**
We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!"
**Step 4: Feel more alive**
Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times.
*For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)*
**HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC**
A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about.
Recent topics include:
* "What are you passionate about right now?"
* "What makes a good friend?"
* "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?"
* "How do you want to be remembered?"
* "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?"
Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter.
**WHAT TO EXPECT**
This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.*
But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here.
**FAQ**
* Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk!
* We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space.
* We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space.
* Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know.
* Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic!
**LOGISTICS**
* If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event.
* This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs.
* Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details.
* If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋
**IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...**
[The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up.
* This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).
First Time Authors Events Near You
Connect with your local First Time Authors community
Indianapolis Online Speed Dating Perfect for first timers
**🌹 Discover Speed Dating Online – The Easiest Way for First Timers to Meet Someone!**
**⚠️ RSVP ≠ Registration!**
Your Meetup RSVP alone does **not** secure a spot. You must click your age group link below, complete registration, and finish the personality quiz. **Spots are limited** and fill fast!
**🎟️ Age Group Registration Links (Click Yours Now):**
- **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Indianapolis&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0)
---
🔑 **The secret to great first dates?** Feeling comfortable. Start here! Online speed dating is perfect for first-timers. Meet like-minded local singles from the comfort of your own home – no pressure, no crowded venues, just genuine connections in a safe, welcoming environment.
🎯 **Perfect for:**
- First-time speed daters ready to try something new
- People returning to dating after a break who want a gentle start
- Anyone trying speed dating for the first time
- First-timers wanting a low-pressure, guided experience
- Singles who feel more comfortable meeting from home first
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Live on Zoom – easy to join, private, and beginner-friendly
- **Location:** Your cozy space – meet from wherever you feel most comfortable
- **Host:** Friendly host who makes first-timers feel welcome and at ease
- **Vibe:** Comfortable chats with Indianapolis singles in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment
**How It Works**
1. **Pick Your Session** – Select the age group that fits you and register your spot.
2. **Do the Matching Quiz** – It only takes a minute and dramatically improves your matches.
3. **Log In & Relax** – Join the Zoom call and let the fun begin. Your host handles the logistics!
4. **Speed Dating Rounds** – Enjoy guided, structured conversations with friendly Indianapolis singles.
5. **Get Your Matches** – After the event, mutual matches are revealed. Start a real connection!
💡 **Top tip:** Good lighting and a tidy background go a long way on Zoom dates.
⭐ *"Way better than any dating app. Real conversations with real people. Loved it!"* – Indianapolis attendee
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✨ First-timers welcome, always. Join hundreds of Indianapolis singles who found love online! 💕 ✨
Detroit Online Speed Dating Perfect for first timers
**🌹 Online Speed Dating – No Awkwardness, Just Fun – Great for First Timers!**
**⚠️ PLEASE READ: Simply RSVPing Will Not Secure Your Spot!**
To join this event, click your age group registration link below, sign up, and complete the short personality quiz. **Capacity is strictly limited** – don't delay!
**📌 Register for Your Age Group Here:**
- **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0)
---
🌟 **Want to meet real singles without the bar scene?** Welcome! Our online speed dating events are specifically designed with first-timers in mind. Every conversation is guided, every interaction is comfortable, and you never have to leave your home.
🎯 **Perfect for:**
- First-time speed daters ready to try something new
- Singles who appreciate a guided, hosted dating experience
- Anyone who believes great chemistry starts with great conversation
- Busy professionals who value their time and comfort
- Anyone looking for a fun, structured way to meet new people
⭐ *"Way better than any dating app. Real conversations with real people. Loved it!"* – Detroit attendee
**How It Works**
1. **Pick Your Session** – Select the age group that fits you and register your spot.
2. **Do the Matching Quiz** – It only takes a minute and dramatically improves your matches.
3. **Show Up on Zoom** – Grab a drink, get comfortable, and let the host guide you through each round.
4. **Start Chatting** – Short, timed conversations with compatible Detroit singles. No awkward silences!
5. **See Who Liked You Back** – Mutual matches sent to your inbox. Your next chapter begins!
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Zoom meetup – real-time conversations in a relaxed online space
- **Location:** Anywhere with Wi-Fi – your couch, your café, your call
- **Host:** Supportive facilitator experienced in helping newcomers enjoy speed dating
- **Vibe:** Friendly, no-judgement conversations with singles from the Detroit area
- **Matches:** Mutual matches revealed after the event
- **Follow-up:** Post-event match results delivered to your inbox
- **Atmosphere:** Positive, inclusive, and judgement-free
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✨ Life's too short for bad dates. Try a great one – from home! 🥰 ✨
Cleveland Online Speed Dating Perfect for first timers
**🥰 Discover Speed Dating Online – The Easiest Way for First Timers to Meet Someone!**
**⚠️ CRITICAL: Your Spot Is NOT Confirmed by RSVPing!**
Follow these steps to secure entry:
1. Select your age group below
2. Click the registration link
3. Complete the personality quiz
**Spots are extremely limited!**
**🎯 Select Your Age Group & Register Now:**
- **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=369.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=serene-lake-love-mirror&ar=55+&face_v=4.0)
---
🙌 **Never tried speed dating before?** You're in the right place! Think of it as the easiest first date you'll ever have – from your couch, with a host who keeps things fun, and a room full of Cleveland singles who are just as excited (and maybe just as nervous) as you.
🎯 **Perfect for:**
- Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations
- Anyone who's tired of swiping and wants real conversation
- Shy or reserved singles who open up better in private chats
- Anyone trying speed dating for the first time
- First-timers wanting a low-pressure, guided experience
**How It Works**
1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above.
2. **Answer a Few Fun Questions** – Our quiz helps match you with compatible Cleveland singles.
3. **Show Up on Zoom** – Grab a drink, get comfortable, and let the host guide you through each round.
4. **Enjoy the Conversations** – Each round is timed and guided so every chat feels natural and fun.
5. **Get Your Matches** – After the event, mutual matches are revealed. Start a real connection!
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Live on Zoom – easy to join, private, and beginner-friendly
- **Location:** Wherever you're most relaxed – that's your venue tonight
- **Host:** Charismatic host who keeps the energy positive and the nerves low
- **Vibe:** Light-hearted, easy-going speed dates with open-minded Cleveland singles
- **Follow-up:** Post-event match results delivered to your inbox
- **Support:** Our host is available before, during, and after the event
💡 **Heads up:** The best connections happen when you're genuinely interested in the other person.
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✨ Connect from your comfort zone with friendly Cleveland first-timers – no pressure, just possibilities! 💓 ✨
Shut Up & Write! Kingsdale Shopping Center
Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington.
The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo.
Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine.
We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you.
The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly.
Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome.
The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit.
Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times.
Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have.
Happy writing!
Queer Quills
**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**


























