The Experience

For five days, you'll step away from the demands of everyday life and into a creative sanctuary designed for deep, uninterrupted work.

Nestled on a breathtaking private estate in the hills of Ojai, our retreat offers an environment where meaningful writing can flourish. Mornings begin with inspiring discussions on craft, memoir, and story, followed by generous blocks of uninterrupted writing time, one-on-one coaching, and thoughtful group conversations that challenge, encourage, and deepen your work.

Whether you're just beginning to shape an idea or refining a completed draft, you'll receive personalized guidance tailored to where you are in the creative process. Writers in the early stages will work closely with Kerri Randles to uncover the emotional architecture of their story—developing theme, structure, character, and narrative momentum. Writers with more developed manuscripts will have opportunities to work with Erika Schickel, whose editorial guidance helps elevate voice, strengthen structure, and shape manuscripts for their next stage of revision.

Throughout the retreat, there will be ample opportunities for individual consultations, manuscript discussions, story development, editing sessions, and independent writing, allowing every participant to move their work forward in meaningful ways.

Between sessions, wander the estate's beautiful grounds and scenic trails, write beneath ancient oaks, relax by the pool, or simply enjoy the quiet space needed for ideas to take root. Optional restorative experiences—including massage therapy, intuitive tarot readings, and healing sessions—may be available, offering opportunities to nourish both your creative spirit and your well-being.

As the sun sets, our days culminate in intimate evening gatherings inspired by The Moth, where participants are invited to share stories, excerpts, memories, and works-in-progress in a warm, supportive atmosphere. These evenings often become the heart of the retreat—celebrating vulnerability, laughter, connection, and the transformative power of storytelling.

With only ten participants, the retreat cultivates an intimate literary community where every writer receives meaningful individual attention, lasting friendships are formed, and each story is given the time and care it deserves.

More than a writing retreat, this is an invitation to reconnect with your creative voice, immerse yourself in the writing life, and return home with renewed clarity, momentum, and a deeper understanding of the story only you can tell.

Retreat Tuition

All rooms are private with their own quarters and bathrooms

Private Room (10) $4500

Discounted rate for shared KING bed or TWIN bed (4)
$3,000

Tuition Includes

• Four full days of instruction and coaching

• Four nights accommodations

• Daily breakfast and lunch

• Full access to the estate, pool, hiking trails, and gathering spaces

Not Included

• Travel to and from Ojai

• Evening dinners in town

Enrollment

Space is intentionally limited to TEN writers, but will accommodate up to 14 if couples attend, friends sharing beds or twin bed occupancy.

A non-refundable deposit of $500 reserves your place.

Payment plans are available during sign-up. Remaining tuition is due one month prior to the retreat.

Complete retreat details, arrival information, and pre-retreat materials will be provided upon registration.

If you've been waiting for the right time to commit to your story, we would be honored to spend these five days with you.

We look forward to welcoming you to Ojai.

Warmly,

Kerri Randles & Erika Schickel

The Big Story