Acorn Experiences

Frequently Asked Questions

 

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About Our Retreats

What does Acorn Experiences provide?

Acorn Experiences creates immersive writing retreats in carefully selected locations for accomplished writers. We curate tranquil properties with inspiring interiors and peaceful surroundings, featuring thoughtfully designed atmospheres with ambient lighting, candles, and refined furnishings that foster deep creative focus. Our retreats offer the perfect balance of structured programming and restorative time, designed to elevate your writing and creative practice.

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Who are our retreats designed for?

Our retreats are exclusively designed for advanced writers with formal training or publishing credentials:

• MFA holders or active MFA graduate students

• Writers with a master's degree in writing or English

• Writers with publication credits (poems, short stories, screenplays, novels, articles or works of nonfiction)

 

We maintain these requirements to ensure a sophisticated community of committed writers who can engage in advanced literary discourse and contribute meaningfully to the retreat experience.

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Additionally, participants must:

• Have a specific project they plan to work on during the retreat

• Be able to stay for the entire retreat duration

• Be committed to their writing career and ongoing creative development

 

How large are your retreat groups?

We maintain intimate group sizes to ensure each guest receives personalized attention and meaningful connection with fellow writers, while preserving the tranquil atmosphere essential for serious creative work.

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What makes Acorn Experiences different from other writing retreats?

We focus on creating a complete sensory experience that nurtures creativity through our proprietary retreat methodologies. Our retreats go beyond typical writing workshops by offering unique amenities and carefully curated atmospheres that promote authentic connection and deep creative focus through full-immersion experiences in low-technology environments.

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Retreat Experience

What does a typical retreat experience look like?

Each retreat offers a thoughtfully designed blend of dedicated writing time, expert-led programming, and restorative breaks. We balance structured creative sessions with optional activities, allowing you to customize your experience while benefiting from the collective energy of accomplished writers. All operational details and daily schedules will be provided in your welcome materials upon registration.

 

Are activities optional?

All activities except the scheduled writing time are optional. As an immersive retreat, we expect guests to use the designated writing periods for writing—this is the core purpose of our retreats and essential to maintaining the focused creative environment we promise. Other activities are designed to complement and enhance your writing experience.

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What kind of programming do you offer?

We provide expert-led craft discussions and thoughtful peer exchange sessions designed specifically for accomplished writers. Our programming focuses on advanced craft development, creative renewal, and strategic career advancement. We also feature distinguished guest speakers—esteemed authors and other industry experts—who offer specialized insights.

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Are you affiliated with any university or higher education program?
Acorn Experiences is an independent retreat and writing experiences company founded by MFA graduates. While we are not formally affiliated with any university, our founders bring extensive academic and professional experience in creative writing and education to create sophisticated experiences and offerings for accomplished writers.

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Do you offer critique sessions?

Yes, we provide optional peer feedback sessions in a supportive environment that focuses on craft development and constructive dialogue.

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Do you provide writing prompts or exercises?

Yes, we offer curated writing prompts and creative exercises for those who find them helpful during writing sessions.

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Practical Information

What's included in the retreat fee?

Your retreat experience is all-inclusive with the exception of alcoholic beverages and optional outside dining. This includes:

• Private accommodations

• All scheduled retreat activities and programming

• Writing materials and resources

• Acorn-curated resources and retreat amenities

• Nourishing meals with dietary accommodation options

• Access to specialized creative spaces and wellness amenities

• Personalized educational materials

 

All guests pay the same retreat fee regardless of participation level, so we encourage everyone to take full advantage of all amenities, resources, and activities offered.

 

Will I have my own bedroom?

Yes, each participant has their own private bedroom.

 

What about bathrooms?

Bathroom arrangements vary by location. Some retreats offer private bathrooms, while others may have shared bathrooms. The specific arrangement will be clearly communicated during registration.

 

What should I bring?

We'll send a detailed packing list before your retreat, but essentials include:

• Your preferred writing tools (laptop, notebooks, etc.)

• Comfortable clothing for writing and socializing

• Any personal items that support your creative process

• Weather-appropriate attire

• Any special dietary items beyond what we provide

 

Is there WiFi available?

Yes, all our retreat locations have WiFi access. We maintain a low-technology environment that enhances creative productivity and preserves the natural focus essential for deep creative work.

 

What are the meal arrangements?

All meals are included in your retreat experience, featuring nourishing options with dietary accommodations available. Specific meal details and arrangements will be provided in your welcome materials.

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Registration & Policies

How do I register for a retreat?

Following our invite-only soft launch retreats in June and October 2025, registration opens to the public in May 2026. Priority access and early notification will be available through our website and social channels. Given our intimate group sizes and personalized approach, spaces fill quickly.

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Do you offer payment plans?

We require full investment at registration to secure your retreat experience and ensure we can deliver the exceptional, personalized attention our guests expect.

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What if I have dietary restrictions or accessibility needs?

We take great care to ensure every guest feels welcomed and fully supported. During registration, we'll gather detailed information about any dietary preferences, accessibility requirements, or special considerations so we can thoughtfully prepare for your arrival and create an exceptional experience tailored to you.

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Still Have Questions?

If you don't see your question answered here, please visit our Contact page. We're happy to provide any additional information you need to make your retreat experience exceptional.