Write Your True Story by the Sea
Hosted at Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Monterey, this in-person retreat is designed to help you return to your authentic voice in a supportive circle. Through guided prompts, gentle reflection, and structured storytelling practice, you will write from lived experience, practice sharing aloud with care, and leave with realistic next steps for bringing your work into the world.
This is not a critique-heavy workshop. It is a guided, encouraging container where every voice is respected.
No formal writing experience is required.
Good fit if you:
-
Want support and structure to get words on the page
-
Want a supportive circle, not critique
-
Want a clear path to share beyond the weekend
Not a fit if you:
-
Want line edits or critique-intensive workshops
-
Are primarily looking for fiction craft instruction
The Retreat
Dates + Location
July 16–19, 2026
Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Monterey
Pacific Grove, CA
Schedule (Pacific Time)
Thursday (3:00–5:00 PM)
Arrival + Opening Circle
We settle in, set intentions, and create a safe, supportive container for the weekend. You will be guided through a short grounding practice and reflective prompts to clarify what you want from your retreat.
Friday (9:00 AM–5:00 PM)
Write + Reflect Day
A full day of guided writing, gentle reflection, and structured creative work time. You will move through prompts designed to help you access your most honest story, with breaks for quiet integration and optional coastal walks.
Saturday (9:00 AM–5:00 PM)
Share + Practice Day
We deepen the work by practicing how to share your story aloud with care, boundaries, and confidence. You will be supported in sharing in a way that feels authentic, and you will receive gentle facilitation to strengthen your voice and presence.
Sunday (9:00 AM–12:00 PM)
Story Roadmap + Closing
A practical morning session to help you take your story beyond the retreat. We will explore realistic options for sharing your work, including blogging, self-publishing, traditional proposals, social media, and short-form video. We close with integration and next steps so you leave feeling clear and supported.
Investment
Workshop fee: $333.33
Paid to John Mothershead. Includes all sessions, materials, and facilitation.
Lodging: $449/night plus applicable taxes and fees. Rooms are booked separately with the hotel. A limited number of discounted rates are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Booking details will be shared after registration.
Why Pacific Grove
Pacific Grove is quiet, walkable, and surrounded by coastline that makes it easier to slow down, listen inward, and create. During reflection time, you will be encouraged to choose a writing spot that fits your energy, whether that is the hotel courtyard, nearby Jewel Park, the Pacific Grove Library, or Lovers Point and the coastal path.
FAQ
Do I need writing experience?
No. This retreat is guided and supportive. Come as you are.
Do I have to share my story aloud?
Sharing is encouraged, never forced. You choose what feels aligned.
What should I bring?
A journal or notebook you love, a pen, and layers for coastal weather.
Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the workshop fee. Guests will have access to hotel options and nearby dining in downtown Pacific Grove.
What is the cancellation policy?
The workshop fee is non-refundable. All sales are final. If you are unable to attend, you may request store credit toward a future offering (subject to availability and approval).
Hotel reservations are booked separately and are non-refundable. Any changes or requests related to your hotel stay must be arranged directly with Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove Monterey and are subject to the hotel’s policies.