It's been three busy months since I attended the Luxury Calligrapher's Retreat, and I’ve spent this time reflecting on what was truly an unforgettable experience. I wasn’t sure what to expect going in, but Amanda Reid and her incredible team exceeded every expectation. As you can imagine, there aren’t many retreats or conferences specifically for calligraphers, so discovering this event felt like uncovering a hidden gem. But this retreat was more than just a chance to hone our craft; it was a holistic experience, seamlessly blending learning with much-needed relaxation and self-care.

There were so many highlights during the retreat, but let’s start with the house itself! The views were beyond stunning—imagine waking up to the sunrise over the rolling hills of Dripping Springs, Texas, like something out of a fairytale. And the food? Let me just say, Texas BBQ. My Lord. Of all the incredible meals we enjoyed, that BBQ was hands down my favorite. Another delightful surprise was the morning yoga sessions, a perfect way to start each day with calm and focus.

Now, onto the heart of the retreat—the sessions led by industry leaders. Amanda Reid's presentation on Self-Care for Calligraphers was incredibly refreshing. In a world that often glorifies hustle culture, Amanda emphasized working at a sustainable pace, encouraging us to take care of ourselves so that we can continue to create with passion and purpose. As the founder of the Luxury Calligrapher's Retreat and Amanda Reid Designs, her insights were not only practical but deeply resonant, especially for those of us who often put our work above our well-being.

Another standout session was Latoya Jones’ presentation on Financial Management. Let’s face it, understanding the financial side of our art is crucial for sustaining our businesses, and Latoya’s expertise made this often daunting topic approachable and empowering. I walked away with practical tips that I’ve already started to implement.

Sylvia Wong of Via Calligraphy delivered an engaging session on Marketing. Her strategies for effectively marketing our services and building a brand were both inspiring and actionable. Sylvia's passion for helping other calligraphers shine through their work made her session a true gem of the retreat.

Carla Hagan’s presentation on Engraving Techniques was also captivating. Engraving is such a unique and intricate part of calligraphy, and Carla’s expertise in this area was simply mesmerizing. Her session gave me a newfound appreciation for the art, along with some new techniques to explore in my own work.

Of course, I can’t forget the special touches that made the retreat so memorable. Amanda’s Mom was an absolute delight, serving as our house mom and bringing a warm, comforting presence to the group. The welcome dinner was something straight out of the most luxurious Pinterest boards—imagine being serenaded by a pianist and singer while our dinner was prepared by a private chef, all paired with exquisite wine by Josh. It was the perfect way to kick off the retreat. And a big shoutout to Amanda’s husband, Matthew Reid, who captured some amazing shots of us throughout the retreat.

Beyond the incredible learning opportunities, the retreat struck a perfect balance between work and rest. We had ample time to unwind, reflect, and connect with one another. The sense of community among the attendees was one of the most enriching aspects of the experience. I truly enjoyed connecting with these talented women, sharing our stories, and supporting each other on our creative journeys. I hope Amanda decides to create more retreats, she knows exactly what calligraphers need to thrive!

As I move forward, I’m excited to apply everything I learned at the retreat. The connections I made, the knowledge I gained, and the memories I created will continue to inspire me in both my personal and professional life.

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