We’re so grateful for the incredible interest in Book Fair at Bel Air. Each year, we receive far more applications and inquiries than available space allows, which means we often hear similar questions from authors and vendors navigating the selection process. This FAQ is designed to offer transparency, clarify how decisions are made, and answer the most common questions we receive. We hope it provides helpful context and makes the process feel clearer and more approachable.

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us at [email protected].

Book Fair at Bel Air received a significantly higher number of applications than available vendor spaces for 2026. We have 110 vendor spaces available and received over 300 applications. We are incredibly grateful for the interest and care that went into each submission.

Due to venue capacity, layout, and our commitment to creating a high-quality experience for attendees and vendors alike, we are only able to accept a limited number of vendors each year. This means that many strong applications cannot be accepted immediately. This year, we were able to accept 110 vendors.

Author applications are reviewed holistically by a team of three using the following criteria:

  • An established backlist of titles (preferably including a release within the past year)
  • Content appropriateness for a family-friendly event (mature titles are welcome if covers are discreet)
  • Professional quality of book covers and content
  • A clear, user-friendly website with contact information
  • At least one active social media platform used to share book-related updates (follower count is not considered)

For non-author vendors: a demonstrated history of quality products and established business activity via either social media, Etsy, website, etc.

Featured Authors are invited guests selected by the Book Fair at Bel Air team. They are chosen for their ability to bring special excitement and visibility to the fair through widely loved titles or notable emerging work. Many Featured Authors are New York Times and/or USA Today bestselling authors.

Being waitlisted means your application was strong, but we were unable to offer a space at this time. If availability opens or adjustments are made, waitlisted vendors may be contacted.

We maintain an internal “next up” list of strong candidates based on event needs and balance. The list usually has the first 10 candidates to be considered when a spot opens. While we do not publicly rank the waitlist, vendors who are contacted will be notified directly.

There is no need to follow up. If space becomes available, we will reach out directly using the email provided on your application.

Attendees include children, teens, and families. All visible materials — including covers, signage, and displays — should be suitable for public viewing in a community space no matter which genre you’re grouped with.

Yes — with discretion. Adult titles are welcome provided covers and table displays remain appropriate for a family-friendly, all-ages environment.

A professional, functional website is strongly preferred. At minimum, it should clearly display:

  • your books or products
  • basic information about you or your business
  • contact details

Social-only or link-in-bio pages may limit acceptance.

We look for at least one active platform used to share book or business updates. Consistency and clarity matter more than follower numbers.

This year, 40 returning vendors did get priority acceptance. This was due to their continued commitment to the fair. Due to the size and scope of the fair, this is the last year we will be able to extend that courtesy and going forward, all applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Absolutely. Applications are reviewed fresh each year, and not being accepted one year does not negatively impact future applications.

Due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to provide individual feedback. This FAQ reflects the general factors considered during the review process.

Book Fair at Bel Air is committed to creating a welcoming, joyful, and professional experience for readers, authors, and vendors alike. We are deeply grateful for the enthusiasm and care shown by everyone who applies.