Start 2025 by Creating Stories That Shine!

Hey friends!

Let’s just say it. You have stories inside you—stories that can make someone feel seen, ignite hope, or change how they view the world. But it’s easy to lose sight of that truth in the busyness of life or the doubt that creeps in when the words don’t come. Maybe you’re feeling tired, anxious, or wondering if your art really matters. It does. Your stories matter. And this is your chance to rediscover the joy of writing and the power of your voice.

The Aurora Lights Virtual Retreat is a space to:

  • Renew your passion for storytelling

  • Reconnect with a community of writers who truly get you

  • And reignite your creativity with mentorship and guidance from seasoned publishing professionals.

Together, we’ll prepare to make 2025 your most inspired, fulfilling writing year yet. Whether you need fresh ideas, actionable strategies, or the courage to chase your dreams, this retreat will equip you to write with purpose, clarity, and heart.

Over four days, you’ll immerse yourself in:

  • Workshops

  • Writing sessions

  • Expert-led discussions

All designed to help you shine brighter and create stories that linger long after they’re told.

Why Join the Aurora Lights Retreat?

  • Renew Your Inspiration: Reignite your love for writing with creative exercises and thoughtful guidance.

  • Build Community: Surround yourself with supportive, like-minded writers who understand your journey.

  • Plan for Success: Walk away with a clear, personalized plan for achieving your writing goals in 2025.

  • Learn from Experts: Gain insights from publishing pros who’ve been where you are and know how to guide you forward.

  • Stay Flexible: All sessions are on Zoom and recorded so you can participate fully, no matter your schedule.

  • Find Your Momentum: Daily writing sessions give you the accountability, focus, and inspiration to make real progress.

Dates: January 14th-17th

Theme: Wonder, Community, and Creative Focus for 2025

Platform: Zoom, record sessions and send out

Cost: $39

Retreat Schedule

Tuesday, January 14: Welcome and Vision

  • 6:00–8:00 PM ET / 3:00–5:00 PM PT: Writing Sprints – Drop into our virtual Zoom cabin and let the creative energy flow.

  • 8:30 PM ET / 5:30 PM PT: Ignite 2025: Creating a Vision for Success – A guided session to set short- and long-term writing goals.

Wednesday, January 15: Mentorship and Strategy

  • 12:00–2:00 PM ET / 9:00–11:00 AM PT: Writing Sprints – Join our come-and-go session to focus and create.

  • 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT: Mentorship Panel – Industry experts share insights on balancing creativity and deadlines.

  • 4:15 PM ET / 1:15 PM PT: Idea Lab – Brainstorm, refine, and pitch your ideas with live feedback.

Thursday, January 16: Writing Sessions and Accountability

  • 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT: Mapping Your Path – Plan your writing year by quarters.

  • 7:30 PM ET / 4:30 PM PT: Schedule Success – Build daily habits that stick.

  • 8:00–10:00 PM ET / 6:00–8:00 PM PT: Writing Sprints – End the day with progress and accountability.

Friday, January 17: Wrap-Up and Inspiration

  • 12:00–2:00 PM ET / 9:00–11:00 AM PT: Writing Sprints – Celebrate the final day with focused energy.

  • 8:30 PM ET / 5:30 PM PT: Closing Circle – Craft your personalized 2025 writing blueprint and share your vision.

What You’ll Gain

Professional Benefits

  • Expert advice on elevating your writing craft and developing marketable ideas.

  • A personalized plan to organize your creative projects for the year.

  • Tools to create compelling, impactful stories.

Personal Benefits

  • A renewed sense of confidence and purpose in your writing.

  • A community of writers who will inspire and support you long after the retreat ends.

  • Clarity and focus to tackle your writing goals with intention and heart.

  1. Buy Your Ticket Here ->

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Previous Retreat Magnets!

  • Savannah, Georgia

  • Inverness, Scotland

  • Myrtle Beach

  • Cambria, California

  • Smoky Mountains

  • Hollywood, California

~Ani’a Dutton, fantasy author

“The Writer’s Sanctuary is a rare gift. Mary & C.J. have cultivated a caring community that eradicates what can be a very lonely career. With humor and kindness they share their vast experience, guide you in the grittier aspects of publishing, and approach everything with 100% authenticity. After every conference and online workshop, I have walked away with new knowledge and friends. Mary & C.J. hold up candles to light the way for the rest of us, and I am so grateful for everything they have poured into the lives of those involved in the TWS group!”

~Becky Gaines, author of The Soul Crier

“What I love most about TWS is how much information Mary and C.J. pack into their events. Even as an author who is no longer interested in pursuing a traditional publishing career, there's still great info I can apply to my indie path when it comes to writing, editing, and marketing a book. I also appreciate how they take a longterm view of things. They really want you to build a successful writing career.”

“TWS events are amazing, and I always learn something new. I love that they teach things many conferences do not and that the presenters are open and honest in their teachings and discussions. There’s plenty of humor and everyone is accepting and friendly. Ten out of ten. Will attend events again!”

~Joan Stradling, writer of magical things

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Code of Conduct

The Writer’s Sanctuary is dedicated to an experience that is free from discrimination and harassment for every person. We have a zero-tolerance policy regarding discrimination and harassment in any form toward any of our participants, at our retreats and in the online and in-person forums. This includes unwelcome and inappropriate sexual, racist, bigoted, or threatening comments or attention, touching, stalking, photographs, intimidation, or coercion – or discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, political affiliation, sex, gender, sexual orientation, nation of origin, disability, or age. Any retreat participants who violate this code may be sanctioned or expelled immediately without refund. If you are the victim of harassment or should a complaint arise at this event, please contact our staff here .