Workshops & Retreats

Programs to help you find faith in your story

Since 2020, we have offered online and in-person workshops to spark new ideas and creativity. Over 1000 women have tried a two-hour workshop, a one day getaway, or a full three-day retreat. We want to help you rediscover what’s whispering to you!

Our Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 programming is now live!

 
 

here’s what they’re saying…

read more testimonials here!

  • "

    This retreat was exactly what I didn't even know I needed. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I took a leap of faith and in doing so, found kindred spirits, soul-filling laughter, new friends, and the faith that my writing is something that is not only worthwhile but also important--for myself and for others.

    Allison Wohl, Washington, D.C

  • "

    This was my first Women Faith & Story writing retreat that I’ve ever been on, but it won’t be my last. The setting, the women, and Kathy’s leadership cultivated a rich environment for creativity. This experience made me hungry to write, but not only write…to paint, to respond to writing prompts, and create an experience like this for the women in my circle, including my daughters.

    Shari Beth, Lexington, KY

  • "

    Women in Wyoming Writers retreat was like nothing I have experienced! It was deep and soulful, and it was joyful and fun!!! Kathy created a safe space where nine amazing women could share their hearts through their writing. She wove in creative times and joyful explosions! I can't wait to go again!

    Megan Young, Charlotte, NC

Workshops

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Workshops •

 

Every woman creates

whether it’s a family, a garden, a meal or a work of art, women are always creating.

We encourage women of all ages and stages to explore writing and art as a way to unlock their imaginations—and their potential. Especially women who say “I am not a writer” or “I am not an artist.” We ALL have the ability to create something beautiful.

You don’t have to have the desire to be a published author or a professional painter—just the act of trying something new can help you imagine new possibilities for your life if you are feeling stuck. Come try one of our workshops, events, or retreats—we can’t wait to meet you and come alongside you as you create!

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We are thrilled to highlight a few of our incredible Retreats coming in 2024! learn more here.

  • She Creates in Sante Fe

    If you read her book, The Last Ordinary Hour, you know this city holds a special place in the heart of author Kathy Izard as both a spiritual and creative destination, and this is where WFS is headed to kick off 2024! We will be spending four days and three nights in January immersing ourselves in the culture and beauty of Santa Fe—one of America’s most historic and artistic cities unlike any other in the world. To join us, learn more here.

  • Kingsbrae Canadian Retreat

    There are very few places as magical the historic Kingsbrae Garden in the charming seaside town of St. Andrews. Join author Kathy Izard and artist Caroline Simas for your own creative Canadian adventure! Each day, Caroline and Kathy will be weaving together their magical combination of art and writing. You don’t have to consider yourself an artist or an author to attend—just a sense of curiosity to explore new things! Register here.

  • camino pilgrimage

    Join Kathy Izard on a spiritual journey walking a thousand-year-old pilgrimage—El Camino de Santiago, “The Way of St. James”. This specially designed journey showcases the very best landscapes and villages along this famous trail. Along the way, we will also enjoy wonderful regional specialties for lunch and dinner, as well as be welcomed each night into our carefully selected inns and paradors, including two nights at the acclaimed Parador dos Reis Católicos in Santiago. We hope you will join us! Learn more here.

Workshop & Retreat Coaches

  • Kathy Izard

    Author & Creative Coach

    Twenty years ago, Kathy Izard was feeling a little lost in her life. She felt restless for purpose and wanted to do good in the world but wasn’t sure where to begin. Since that time, she has helped build Moore Place and Hopeway co-leading campaigns to raise over $75 million for homelessness, housing, and mental health. Kathy is the author of adult and children’s books and loves helping women find faith in their story.

Retreats

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Retreats •

Getaway with Women | Faith & Story

We hope you’ll join us for one of our 2023 retreats!

Our retreats are designed to leave you connected and inspired with creative activities like writing, art, and a little soul care. We might be taking a wonderful walk in the woods, experimenting with watercolors, having a castle-building competition, or doing a little moonlight journaling. All of our programming is designed to ignite your imagination and recharge your life!

 

writing workshop testimonials

  • "

    Kathy Izard's Self Publishing: Start to Finish is the answer for anyone who has written a book, wants to see it published, and has banged tirelessly on the closed gates of traditional publishing. Kathy's class breaks down the steps to self-publishing in a clear sequential path and explores each step with participants until they understand the finer points, necessities, and sometimes, the joys. Best of all this is not just a path to publishing, but a thoughtful road to success that guarantees a product that will be meaningful to both writer and readers to come.

    Susie Wilde, memoirist, reviewer, and children's book teacher

  • "

    When I signed up for Kathy’s workshop, I was excited to reignite my interest in writing. What I didn’t expect was to experience true change within myself, not just as a writer, but as a person. Kathy facilitated that through her welcoming spirit and altruistic nature-it permeated the group and created something amazing for each one of us.

    Amy Eades, Charlotte, NC

  • "

    I recently enjoyed participating in Kathy's Self-Publishing: Start to Finish workshop, and I cannot recommend it enough! During our two hours together, Kathy provided our group with a comprehensive and informative 11-step process, including tips for finding affordable editing and design services. She highlighted the many perks and benefits of self-publishing which all, on a personal level, re-solidified my desire to go in this direction. This workshop saved me countless hours of research time and is a MUST for aspiring authors who seek to control their publishing journeys.

    Rachel Hagstrom, Dallas, TX

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These are some of our past retreats from Spring 2023! explore our other Past Reterats Here.

  • Beginning to bloom

    Have ideas for your life but not sure how to make them flourish? Or just ready for a Spring Getaway? Join author Kathy Izard and artist Caroline Simas for a one-night creative adventure at beautiful Wild Hope Farm, located just a short drive from Charlotte, NC.

  • Wyoming Writers Retreat

    Places like Jackson Hole Wyoming inspire writers to write. From the majestic peaks of the Teton Mountain Range to the wide-open skies, this place can make your soul sing. It has become one of author Kathy Izard's favorite places to open her journal and now, you are invited to join her for a winter writing retreat!

  • Watercolors, words & waves

    Join artist Caroline Simas and writer Kathy Izard for three days of creating in the beautiful coastal town of Beaufort, SC! By day, be inspired by the sand and the sea with painting and writing activities, and at night enjoy fabulous dinners with women who, like you, come to relax and have a great time!

Retreat Testimonials

  • "

    In addition to facilitating a group of leaders and learners who wanted to engage and connect with what is calling them, the leaders were also participants, which I appreciated. I experienced life coaching, spiritual direction, and gained tools to channel my creativity through writing, painting, listening and sharing. Our retreat connected 10 women in ways I’ve never experienced. My spirit is reinvigorated.

    Cindy Moran, Houston, TX

  • "

    I was in a creative rut and looking for inspiration and I got that and so much more from the Women | Faith & Story writers retreat I attended. It was 24 hours filled with immense insight, lots of laughter (some tears), some introspection and a whole lot of motivation to finally start writing my book. I also left with a room full of fairy godmothers cheering me on. It was truly an incredible experience that I will forever be grateful for.

    Michelle Boudin, Charlotte, NC

  • "

    Little did I imagine that only a short drive from Charlotte and 24 hours of my time would produce dramatic changes in my outlook and spirit. "Beginning to Bloom" is an apt description of the sense of freedom, growth and release inspired by this retreat; a game changer in terms of personal transformation, both creatively and soulfully. Watching a group bond with laughter and tears over family style gourmet meals, art projects and writing prompts to name a few filled me with joy and trust.

    K.T, Charlotte, NC

 

WF&s Talks with Kelly Corrigan

presented by Dickens Mitchener

In October of 2021, WF&S hosted our largest event with bestselling author, speaker, and podcaster Kelly Corrigan for a one-day luncheon in Charlotte. Kelly wowed the sold-out crowd of women, inspiring us with a reading from her latest book Tell Me More. Read the blog post about it here.