Even if you publish traditionally or independently, you may want to do as much as possible that may help you book launch.
1-2 Years Out
About the time you sign your contract (or when writing your book) is the time to connect with others.
Join a writing community. Finding your tribe means having people in your corner supporting your launch. My peeps are my critique group, members of the 12x12 picture book challenge, and friends I’ve met through the ghostwriters for hire.
They get to develop your own author platform so that you reach a broad audience, as it may help you to increase the visibility of the book. then you may get connected with the other authors that are at the same stage.
And in about 4 to 6 months,
you can get connected to a publisher, who would do your marketing, and to find out what will they do for you, you can talk to their marketing team as well.
Work with your illustrator (or author) if you have a picture book. one of my friends and I shared blog tour tasks; she made bookmarks, stickers, and colouring pages; and we created a book trailer together. Then you build an author profile, get a media kit, organize a blog tour for yourself.
Create the book trailer, write your tour posts, tell your friends and family. Arrange the signed copies. And enjoy of the launch date.