Do you offer shorter or longer intensives?
- I’m willing to customize the writing intensive to meet your needs. Can’t afford two full days? Let’s discuss a one-day option, especially if you live in the northern California area.
I like the idea of a writing intensive, but I’m not really sure what I need. Can you help me figure out how to best use the time?
- Yes. Let’s use the thirty minute pre-intensive consultation to discuss your desires and goals. We can either talk on the phone or via email, whichever is most comfortable for you.
I’d like you to critique my manuscript prior to our time together, is that possible?
- If you have a manuscript you’d like to work on during the intensive, yes, I’ll need to critique it first. Once you’ve applied for the intensive and submitted your deposit, I’ll offer you a 25% discount off my normal critique rate.
Do you ever offer the intensive for more than one person at a time?
- I offer intensives or writing retreats for small groups–either at a location of your choice or at a nearby bed and breakfast inn or hotel. I am also willing to consider doing an intensive for you and a friend if you’d like to split the time between you. Contact me for additional information.
Why would I choose a writing intensive over a writers conference?
- Great question! There are excellent writers conferences offered all across the country and I highly recommend attending conferences when possible. The conference experience affords you the opportunity to network with other writers, agents, and editors, as well as the chance to learn from a varied and experienced faculty. There is nothing like a writers conference for connecting with and learning from others in the industry. A writing intensive is an entirely different experience. It’s intense, as the name implies. It’s focused time designed around your specific needs. So rather than fitting into the conference experience, you’re designing the intensive to fit your needs. It’s also an opportunity to build an ongoing one-on-one mentoring relationship with an experienced writing coach and author. And while the focus is intensified, it’s also a relaxed environment where we have the opportunity to delve deeper than you might do in a group setting.
Does the intensive have to take place over a weekend or can we meet during the week?
- If you’re free mid-week, I actually prefer setting our dates on weekdays. But if a weekend works best for you, I can make that work too.
We’re meeting in your home? So…what’s that like?
- It’s casual and relaxed. Because I’m single, I share a home with another single woman who will flex her schedule around ours, so we’ll have the house to ourselves. The home is in a newer tract development that offers pathways for walking and friendly neighbors. The house isn’t elaborate, but it’s a spacious, nicely appointed two-story. My housemate has indulged my wannabe interior design skills and we’ve created a welcoming and comfortable environment. If you’re allergic to dogs, we have a problem. Though I’ll send the dogs to daycare while you’re here and vacuum prior to your arrival, there’s no guarantee you won’t suffer.
What if we don’t enjoy one another or don’t get along?
- The application process is designed to help ensure that we’re a good fit professionally. Also, we’ll have an opportunity to get to know one another a bit through email and/or phone conversations prior to the intensive. I think we’ll sense whether we’ll work well together or not. I also recommend, if you’re hesitant about spending concentrated time together, scheduling a coaching call or two before making your final decision about the intensive.
Is the $200 deposit refundable?
- The deposit is non-refundable. However, if something unforeseen prevents you from attending, I’m happy to apply the deposit to a newly scheduled date.
If I’m flying into Sacramento, do I need to rent a car?
- No. As long as you plan to stay at the Holiday Inn Express in Lincoln, I’m happy to shuttle you between my home and the hotel. You will, however, need to secure transportation from the airport to Lincoln and for your return to the airport. If you decide you’d prefer to stay in a hotel in the Sacramento area, then yes, you’ll need to rent a car.
I have special dietary needs–can you accommodate those needs?
- Absolutely. Make a note of your needs on the application.