Why I Love Hosting Writing Retreats (And Why Community Changes Everything)
There’s something sacred about putting writers in the same room.
Even if that “room” is virtual.
I didn’t start hosting writing retreats because I had all the answers. I started because I know what it feels like to write alone — to Google everything at 1 a.m., to second-guess your draft, to wonder if you’re the only one who doesn’t know what you’re doing.
And I also know what happens when writers gather.
Walls come down.
Ideas spark.
Confidence grows.
And suddenly you’re not just “someone trying to write a book.”
You’re an author in community.
Writing Is Solitary. Publishing Shouldn’t Be.
As writers, we spend so much time in our own heads. We draft alone. We edit alone. We doubt alone.
But publishing? Building a creative life? Sustaining momentum?
That requires community.
One of my favorite parts of hosting retreats is bringing together not just writers — but authors at different stages:
Writers drafting their first manuscript
Indie authors preparing their fifth release
Presenters who’ve navigated the industry and want to share what they’ve learned
Creatives who are still whispering, “Maybe someday I’ll publish…”
There’s something powerful about watching someone realize they’re further along than they thought — or that they’re not behind at all.
Slay the Dragon… or Kiss It?
One of the retreats I’m especially excited about is Slay the Dragon or Kiss It.
Because honestly? That’s the creative journey.
Do you fight the fear?
Or do you lean into it?
Do you conquer the obstacle?
Or transform it?
This retreat is about story, courage, and choice. It’s about exploring the dragons in our writing — craft challenges, genre expectations, internal doubt — and deciding how we want to face them.
I’m looking forward to the conversations. The laughter. The “oh wow, I never thought about it like that” moments.
Those are my favorite.
Self-Publishing 101: Turning Dreams Into Plans
And then there’s Self-Publishing 101 — happening March 14, 2026.
This one feels especially personal to me.
Because I remember how overwhelming publishing felt the first time.
ISBNs.
KDP.
Wide vs. KU.
Metadata.
Launch timelines.
It can feel like a maze.
Self-Publishing 101 is about pulling back the curtain and saying:
Here’s the roadmap.
Here’s what matters.
Here’s what doesn’t.
Here’s how to make decisions that align with your goals.
It’s practical. It’s clear. It’s empowering.
And most importantly, it’s not gatekeep-y.
I want writers to leave that retreat thinking:
“I can actually do this.”
Why Writers Should Consider Attending
If you’re wondering whether a writing retreat is “worth it,” here’s what I’ll say:
You’re not just paying for information.
You’re investing in:
Structured learning instead of endless Googling
A safe, affirming creative space
Direct access to presenters and real answers
Momentum
Accountability
Connection
You’re investing in feeling less alone.
And especially in LGBTQ+ affirming spaces, that matters. A lot.
The Real Reason I Host Retreats
It’s not just about publishing tips.
It’s about watching someone speak up in a breakout room for the first time.
It’s about seeing someone’s confidence shift over the course of a day.
It’s about the messages I get later that say, “I finally did it.”
That’s why I do this.
Writing retreats are about more than craft. They’re about courage. About belonging. About building sustainable creative lives together.
And I cannot wait for:
Slay the Dragon or Kiss It
Self-Publishing 101
If you’ve been thinking about joining us, consider this your invitation.
There’s a seat for you.
