- 1). If you are already part of one or more writing groups, you have everyone you need to get started. If you haven't found other like-minded writers, put up notices in bookstores and libraries until you find them. Once you've found the people, conduct as many meetings as necessary to plan the retreat weekend.
- 2). Determine the date of the weekend that works best for everyone who wants to participate. Next, decide where the retreat will be held. If one of the participants has the room and wants to host the group, that's ideal, but make certain he gets plenty of help from the other participants to get his home ready for the event. If it's at a Bed and Breakfast or a hotel, reservations must be made to secure the rooms and date. Make sure to ask for group rates and discounts, and also reserve any meeting rooms that will be needed. Make reservations for restaurants and in-hotel meals at this time, also.
- 3). Book any speakers and authors you want to speak at your retreat. Any payment needed for authors' travel expenses, accommodations and time must come from the writers' own pockets, or from a sponsor if you can find one. If there is no money to pay for authors, look for those who are willing to speak for free, or find informative videos on writing, publishing or creativity that are available at your public library. The videos can be shown in place of speakers.
- 4). Don't forget to leave plenty of time for the participating writers to write. The most valuable aspect of a writers' retreat is the uninterrupted time alone it affords writers to practice their craft. Writers must bring their own writing tools, including laptops, notebooks, journals and pens.
- 5). Don't forget to allow a little time for socializing and physical activity--if the writers want to tear themselves away from their writing. If they don't, let them write. It's why they came. When it's over, don't forget to have all participants write an evaluation and make suggestions as to how the next one can be even better.
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