Retreats: Escape, Connect, Create!

Ten years ago, my best friend, Shelly texted and asked if I wanted to go to a quilting retreat in Salt Lake City, UT and after some consideration and planning, we were off for four days, escaping from our daily routines, time of reconnecting and sewing!

Sewtopia began as an amazing quilting retreat which was launched by an incredible woman, Amy Newbold and has evolved into two retreats a year and now a Brick & Morter Fabric Shop! Sewtopia retreats move all over the United States and we have travelled to so many incredible cities; Salt Lake, UT, Portland,OR, New Orleans, LA, Seattle,WA, Waltham, MA, Nashville, TN, Palm Springs, CA, Anaheim, CA, Austin, TX and Orlando, FL. Ten years later, I am grateful to Amy and her amazing staff that has hosted incredible experiences that have left me with wonderful memories and deep friendships.

Retreats are truly a wonderful escape from daily life and family demands and allows you to immerse yourself in creativity and be with like-minded creative makers. A Shop-Hop, Sewing Lounge full of eighty-five creative people all making quilts, bags, pouches and other amazing creations for four days leaves you full of memories and ready for the next one!

What is the coolest thing about the Sewtopia retreats that it has created life-long friendships with people all over North America. Attending every year has allowed us to reconnect every fall, talk often through our group chat and we even sew using Zoom, which we call 'Zoomtopia.' We look to each other for ideas, share our latest creations, ask advice on a tricky project, cheer each other on and share family updates.

I asked my friends what they most enjoyed about Sewtopia. Here's what Donna said; "the best thing about sewing retreats and conferences is the bonding  between attendees.Getting to know people in a different setting, whether it's at the sewing table, cutting mat or pressing. Sharing a bite to eat or a drink and opening up because you're not in a hurry to get home and make supper." In our group, we have lots of mother and daughter attendees, which is another wonderful thing!

It's incredible to see what Amy has built in ten years. Now, Amy now has a business partner, Megan and they continue to build an incredible weekend of community, fun and relaxation through quilting and sewing.

My goal for Stitch SJ was to share my passion for quilting and sewing. Building a community of makers is another goal, and this fall I am adding a one-day retreat to our schedule at a local venue. My goal is to have makers take a day for themselves to connect and create. I always strive to do my very best, so I'm beginning small so it is a great day for all. A full day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Brundage Point River Centre on Saturday, October 18th, for twenty participants. If the retreat is received well, I will expand the event to a weekend and offer more spots. Catering of a delicious lunch will be offered for an additional cost and details will follow!

Mark your calendar and watch for announcements regarding registration!