Unusual opportunity ... any advice?

I have written a historical novel based on the true story of Thomas Abell, a relative of mine who defied King Henry VIII and spent seven years in the Tower of London, where he carved our family emblem.

And because the story is about family history, my great uncle has asked me to give a special presentation at his 90th birthday party this month. And he has said he wants to buy a copy of my novel for all his descendants as a birthday gift to himself.

This is awesome, but I have not published the book yet. It is still in the editorial stage, and I was planning to launch in the early part of the year (after the conference!) So my question is, how do I best take advantage of my extended family’s enthusiasm? Should I try to do some pre-orders? Should I tell them to wait until I launch?

This is my first novel so any advice that you have will be appreciated.

Also, I will be at the Novel Marketing conference in January, so maybe this question will be answered there, but the birthday party is in two weeks.

Thank you in advance!

Theresa Abell Haynes