Why a Writing Retreat Will Transform Your Celebrant Practice

When people think of celebrants, most of the time it is with the idea that it is a person who stands up to officiate a ceremony. The truth is that this is such a small part of our job description. Many more hours are spent listening to families and couples as they share their stories and memories and equally as many hours engaged in writing ceremonies.

 

 

We are, as celebrants, first and foremost writers. And yet, how often do we allow ourselves space to refill the well?

It is clear that we produce our best creative work when we’re nourished: physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. In turn, this allows us to be happy and relaxed.

 

A writing retreat has measurable positive effects personally and professionally. It’s a way to find creative freedom away from the busy world. The word ‘retreat’ comes from the Latin meaning to ‘pull back’. ‘Inspirare’, also from the Latin, means ‘to breathe in’, ‘to draw breath’. At our Writing Retreat for Celebrants in September 2024 you’ll have the chance to do just that: live and breathe writing. There’s ample space, if you wish, to write in a room on your own or you can write in the company of others.

 

 

Attending our retreat is a way of investing in your craft, and in your own well being, far away from the fullness of daily life and constant pull of social media. During this time, as the rest of your life is on pause, you’ll be on a healing journey with time to reflect, improve your writing and be revitalised. Enjoy the crackle of the woodstove or sit by the Aga in the farmhouse kitchen, soak in the hot tub, or take a stroll. The weekend will have writing workshops cushioned by times of rest and relaxation.

Our carefully chosen retreat venue is Glassonby Hall, set in the heart of rural Cumbria in the Eden Valley.

At our Writing Retreat for Celebrants, everything is taken care of for you so your time with us becomes an act of self-care. It is a weekend of mind, body and soul TLC while consciously connecting to your creativity and slowing to the natural rhythm of life.

Whether you write life stories or love stories, you’ll learn to make your writing days beautiful and sacred; a spiritual practice which is enjoyable and rewarding. This weekend is an investment in your long-term wellbeing as a writer and celebrant.

This residential retreat includes three nights of accommodation (with your own double room), fully catered, all workshops (held between Friday evening and late Sunday afternoon), workshop materials, and hot tub.

 

Writing Retreat for Celebrants is hosted by Veronika Robinson, an international celebrant since 1995; author of several books for celebrants (and many others); and former editor of The Celebrant magazine. She earned her Master’s Degree in Creative Writing from the University of Cumbria. Veronika is co-founder and co-tutor at Heart-led Ceremonies Celebrant Training.