Any advice on how to attract other SF groups to your CSTS event? We'd like to get an many groups as possible to set up tables in the lobby, and even offer things like face painting, etc. Last year we promoted a costume contest, but it was a bust; no one showed up in costume? Advice on how to make this a fun event, in this tough economy, is appreciated.

How many local clubs are there, and what sort of things to they do? Are they small or big? Do they have any events that they want to promote?

I would probably start by giving the CSTS organisers of Boston and the a call, as many fans are quite prepared to road-trip to nearby events (to make it to 3-4 CSTS events in a year). Boston particularly have a lot of cosplayers at their events, so would be able to offer excellent advice for you. You may event be able to band together to promote CSTS events in your area to pool your resources?

Depending on when your event is, it would be a good idea to build a relationship with the and see if you can somehow get your event tied in with RIFF as they've previously had a sidebar Sci-Fi & Fantasy film festival called .

You're lucky to have a number of conventions in your area, so you should try to use those as opportunities to tell other businesses and clubs about your event. Ask them if they can list it on their website and tell their members about it. Give them some fliers that promote your event and create a sponsors pack that specifically outlines what you can offer them (such as table space to sell/promote, putting their banner on your website, etc). And I would work on building a relationship with the organisers of the conventions, as they may be willing to donate you a table to promote your event, post about it on their website, and even donate some items for a raffle or auction.

You could also try connecting with the following clubs and groups:
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The best rule though is to start promoting early! I see from your site that you've got a Dr Who/Firefly meeting next weekend. Make sure that you have information about CSTS there, and invite everyone there along (and ask them to spread the word to their friends, family and any other clubs/groups they're involved with). You could even hold a raffle on the night to generate interest and start building your donation to EN.

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