Dear TFNationals,
As we move with excitement toward our 2023 convention, we want to take a moment to give you some new information to help your all-important autograph hunting.
Today, we’re announcing an update to our autograph policy, which is designed to provide clarity and protection to both attendees and guests. Stick with us, and we’ll explain.
Background: What’s the existing Policy?
Over the years, TFNation has operated a policy whereby attendees have been able to ask a guest to autograph some of their own items at no additional charge. Whilst some guests have agreed to sign multiple items on occasion, TFN staff have typically asked attendees to stick to two items, to allow everybody in the queue a fair chance to meet the guests and have their items signed.
Is this Policy Changing?
The policy you’re familiar with is largely unchanged – but we’re adding an additional layer, which we’ll explain in this post.
Does this mean we will need to pay for all autographs now?
No.
We like our system and feel it lends to the friendly, family-like nature of our convention. So, we’re not planning to change it drastically just yet; but it’s fair to say, it’s a highly unusual way of doing things.
To be clear, we don’t mind that – we like being highly unusual – but in a world now filled with various comicon-style events which have additional charges for pretty much everything once you’re through the doors, it’s fair to say our model is one which is becoming far less common.
So, why are you making a change?
As guests return to conventions following the pandemic, it’s becoming necessary for us to take new requests into consideration to keep their appearances viable. When a US guest attends a US convention, for example, it’s often an afternoon’s work; but when they come to TFNation, we’re effectively asking them to take unpaid leave, often for up to a week. It’s a very different proposition.
As the world keeps turning, we need to ensure our offerings are attractive so we can continue to welcome incredible guests for you to meet.
Additionally, some guests have pre-existing agreements with their agents, or licensing partners, relating to the autographing of certain classes of items, which impact their ability to attend in line with our traditional policy.
What is the updated policy?
TFNation is for everybody, so we’ve worked hard to come up with an updated autograph system which we believe will be fair to attendees and guests alike. Rather than a wholesale change, we’ve instead opted to add an additional layer on top of the regular signings you’ve come to know and love.
Realistically, this new layer probably won’t impact most attendees; but nevertheless, it’s important everybody is updated, just in case.
We'd appreciate it if you would please give the updated policy a quick read, so you know what to expect at the convention.
(Please note - there are no changes to Legend Pass signings)
Personal Items
- Attendees may still take up to two of their own possessions to have autographed, per guest. These are included within the price of your admission, so no additional charge will be due (in some instances, a ticketing system may be in operation, just to ensure fairness for everybody queuing).
- These are per person (not per day).
- If the queues are not too busy, some guests may be willing to sign additional personal items, without charge; this is at the individual guest’s discretion (though, given some have pre-existing contractual agreements, please do be kind to them if they politely decline – it’s sometimes out of their hands).
- As ever, purchasing a ticket does not guarantee you will meet a guest, as all guests need to spend time at panels and at pre-arranged breaks.
Merchandise
- Guests often sign and sell their own merchandise, prints, artwork, art commissions, etc. You may buy as many of these signed items as you like, subject to availability; they do not impact your personal item signings.
The right to decline
- As has always been the case, guests reserve the right to politely decline to sign any item (for instance, if the item is offensive or inappropriate).
Premium Items
This represents the only significant new addition to the policy, so please do read carefully.
- Some guests will now charge a fee for autographing your Premium Items (which will be specified, to avoid any confusion).
Prices, and quantities will be at the guests’ discretion.
This will enable guests to honour pre-existing agreements with their agent/ license holders. It will also protect guests against scalpers, inflated aftermarket sales and counterfeits (which, frankly, are not welcome at TFNation anyway).
TFNation 2023 Premium Items List (this may be updated if necessary);
- FUNKO POP: One Piece, “Kaido” collectible figurine;
- FUNKO POP: One Piece, “Kaido” (Dragon variant) collectible figurine;
- FUNKO POP: The Flash, “Gorilla Grodd” collectible figurine;
- THREEZERO, Transformers Bumblebee, “DLX Blitzwing” collectible figurine;
As you will see, the premium items noted are largely not Transformers-related. This has been a conscious decision by the guest in question, who is committed to ensuring you all have a fantastic Transformers experience at TFNation.
Thanks for taking the time to read this update – we look forward to welcoming you to TFNation 2023!
TFN Crew