Writers of Montgomery County

Let’s kick this community off by gathering in an intimate, art-filled space to share words and connect with fellow writers.

This opening event for this new group will be a low-pressure, living-room–style open mic for writers of all stages. Bring a short piece you love or are struggling with (2000 words or less, poets 3 pieces or fewer, totaling no more than 2000 words) or maybe something you’re experimenting with.

What to expect:

• Short open mic readings (everyone gets 10 minutes)
• A respectful audience of fellow writers
• A cozy, creative environment designed for sharing work-in-progress
• Clear structure, kind vibes, and no pressure to perform

Location:
This event will take place in a private, art-forward residence in Montgomery County, MD that is cozy, creative, and perfect for an intimate open mic.
The exact address will be shared privately with confirmed RSVPs.

Good to know:

• Space is limited to keep the gathering comfortable and focused
• This is an adult, respectful space and thoughtful listening is part of the experience
• Feedback is optional and only offered if invited
• Please arrive on time so we can start together

Whether you’re new to sharing your work or a seasoned reader, you’re welcome here.

Accessibility note: This is a private home. Please reach out with any access needs or questions before the event.

Publishing in literary magazines can feel opaque, intimidating, or downright mysterious, especially when no one explains how the system actually works!

In this Zoom-based workshop, you’ll get a clear, practical breakdown of how to submit to literary magazines successfully. And its led by me, MJ Huntsgood, an agented author whose work has appeared in over two dozen literary journals and anthologies.

This is not a vague “follow your dreams” talk. It’s a nuts-and-bolts session designed to help you understand how lit mags operate, what editors are looking for, and how to approach submissions with all the gusto and hope you can muster before the rejection letters---and there will be rejection letters---pile in.

We’ll cover:

• How literary magazines really work (and how editors read submissions)
• How to identify magazines that are a good fit for your work
• What makes a submission stand out and what sinks it
• How to write effective cover letters (and why I think they don't matter)
• How to build a sustainable submission strategy without burning out
• Common myths about publishing in lit mags and what’s actually true

You’ll leave with a clearer sense of where to submit, how to submit, and how to think about rejection in a positive way that'll keep you sane.

Who this workshop is for:

• Writers new to submitting who want a roadmap
• Writers who’ve been submitting but aren’t getting traction
• Writers returning to literary publishing after time away
• Writers curious about how lit mags fit into a larger writing or publishing life

Format:
This workshop will take place over Zoom and will include time for teaching, examples, and questions. You’re welcome to participate on or off camera.

No prior publications are required, just curiosity and a desire to learn how this part of the writing world actually works.