Retreat FAQs
Is This Retreat For Me...?
Maybe you call yourself Writer, maybe you don't.
(Yet.)
Maybe you've just lost your job or are about to quit your job or retire from your job or you've started a new one.
Maybe it's your twenty-first or sixtieth birthday and you'd like to give yourself a dream come true.
Maybe you're curious about what it might feel like to commit to the craft of writing by way of a retreat.
Or maybe you just need some time away in order to breathe a little deeper, sleep a little longer or laugh amid the unexpected company of new friends.
Below are the answers to some of the questions we're frequently asked. We hope this helps you as you decide whether or not our retreats are for you. Of course, feel free to email us with any other curiosities.
Do I have to be a writer to attend one of your retreats?
While we have had writers and non-writers alike join our retreats, the answer is no, you do not need to be a 'professional' or published writer. Our retreats are generative, focusing on process and opening up to the page. These are not academic retreats but designed with the intention to nurture the creative spirit, to connect and be present with our most creative selves.
How many participants attend and who are they?
This varies but the group is usually between 8-14 people. In the past we’ve had a mix of both professional writers (etc.) and corporate executives, stay-at-home moms, travelers, adventurers, therapists and psychiatric nurse practitioners. The common thread of writing runs deep, connecting us all in magical, mysterious ways.
What's the average age?
We have had writers as young as 21 (with very wise souls), all the way up to 70+. Usually the ages range from 23+ to late 60s, predominantly female with the occasional brave male. Each group bonds in their own unique way and often people find lifelong friends in one another.
Do people arrive early before the retreats begin?
Most people arrive early to explore the nearby sights and stay a day after, too. We recommend doing this as it allows for time to adjust to time differences and shift gears in both directions when coming and going. (We can also provide you with nearby hotel recs.)
Can you cater to dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. This is something to let us know about as soon as possible so the arrangements can be made beforehand.
Do you offer feedback/critique? If so, how?
We have a specific model we follow as far as critique is concerned – we look at what works, what moves us, and what we love about a piece. We only ever speak in terms of the writing, never the writer; we respond to the narrator and the work itself.
Do you offer payment plans?
Depending on how far in advance you sign up for the retreat, we can offer a payment plan, as long as it's paid in full by the deadline, before the retreat's start date.
What's the cancellation policy?
Deposits and full payments are non-refundable.