29 Palms Book Festival: Operational Systems & Revenue Foundations
Overview
Partnered with festival founders to shape programming, operations, and sponsorship strategy for a young regional literary festival during its second and third annual events.
Patrick Zuchowicki, Festival Founder
“Rebekah joined us at a pivotal moment and immediately made a difference.”
“I recommend her wholeheartedly for any role that requires vision, leadership, and a genuine commitment to building community.”
Challenge
Small team managing 90 authors needed better organization and clear communication. Leadership also sought sustainable revenue beyond volunteer limits to fuel growth.
Approach
Built application/participant management systems to streamline info collection and organization.
Developed professional communications that welcomed and informed authors/guests.
Redesigned festival website twice for polished brand identity (pre/post-event).
Created sponsorship proposal, including $38K casino package, to unlock funding.
Launched Author Marketing Services unit; signed first paying client as revenue pilot.
Handled marketing materials, author relations, and event hosting with warmth/professionalism
Results
Helped position event as a signature literary event in the Mojave Desert.
Drew regional authors, sponsors, media attention for growth momentum.
Cut small team's operational strain via repeatable systems.
Built foundation for sustainable revenue (author services + sponsorships).
A refreshed homepage that captures the festival’s identity and desert spirit — part of a full redesign elevating 29PBF’s brand presence online.
The original website before redesign — showing the need for a clearer structure, cohesive branding, and stronger storytelling.
Streamlined landing page where authors can apply and access key event details — simplifying intake for both participants and organizers.
Custom-built intake form linked to a backend database, automating how author data and session details are collected, organized, and tracked.
Announcement email introducing the new Author Marketing Services program — offering authors customized promotional support including digital assets, social media amplification, and professional marketing guidance.
Lower section of author email featuring my personalized introduction — ensuring every message felt warm, human, and connected.
A live community reading at the festival — representing the inclusive, grassroots energy that defines the Mojave literary scene.
Launch page introducing the new Author Marketing Services line — a pilot revenue stream offering professional marketing and promotional support.
One-page sponsorship proposal designed to attract regional partners, strengthening the festival’s foundation for future funding and growth.
Letter of Recommendation
“I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Rebekah over the past two years, and I can say without hesitation that she has been a driving force behind the festival’s growth and success.” Read more…