MEET THE TEAM
Victoria Hyde and A.J. West held the inaugural Book Party in autumn 2021, followed by the Book Party Summer 2022. Together, they share a passion for bringing authors, readers and influencers together for a celebration of the literary scene in a relaxed environment, allowing guests to enjoy a unique event where everyone is welcome. Since then they have take the event to Birmingham, Blackpool,
Manchester and Birmingham. In 2026 they will be hosting their 8th event in Margate.
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Emily joined Vic & AJ in 2025 as Events Manager and has quickly become an invaluable member of Team Book Party
Victoria Hyde
Events Director and Co-Founder
"I'm a book lover and blogger first and foremost, and I always felt like literary festivals weren't really for me. The Book Party is all about bringing authors and influencers together in a fun and relaxed environment where we can enjoy sharing our passion for books and socialise, as well as taking some time for ourselves."
A.J. West
Co-Founder
"Book bloggers are such a huge part of my life as a writer. As readers, friends, and followers, they encourage me on, make me smile, offer me advice, inspire my writing, and introduce my work to new readers. That's why The Book Party is so amazing! It's about connecting authors and book bloggers in an exciting new way, allowing everyone to celebrate their love of books in a relaxed space."
Emily Portman
Events Manager
Before I discovered The Book Party, I'd been reading and reviewing books for years, but never had the confidence to mingle with other readers, never mind approach authors I admire! That was until I attended a party for the first time in 2024. Buying my ticket was one of the best decisions I ever made.
There is nothing quite like having readers and authors together in a fun, informal, relaxed environment. The Book Party brings like-minded people together, forges friendships, builds confidence, and creates memories.