As the final details of the retreat are falling into place, we are really excited to meet you in PERSON! Soon you will understand why social media is just not enough for the stepmom journey.
Stepmoms from all over the United States (17 states) and Canada are joining us for this amazing and unique event.
It is our goal to help you feel comfortable, share some wisdom, encourage you and to provide a fun setting where you can relax and refresh. It is our prayer that you form long- term friendships this weekend with women who understand your journey and will walk with you as you move forward.
Here are a few details that you might find helpful:
·Once at the Cooper you want the building labeled Hotel II.It can be very confusing as there are several buildings. We will try and have balloons, a large shoe with our logo, or something noticeable to help.
·If you are flying you will need a shuttle or rental car to get to the retreat (15-20 min). Here are shuttle contacts:
·Or you can share a room with someone who has already reserved one at the Cooper Hotel by going to https://www.facebook.com/events/887518291321163/ where other stepmoms are already connecting regarding the retreat.
·We encourage you to connect with other stepmoms who are attending. This can be to buddy up for a ride or room, or just to chat. The FB page for the event is: https://www.facebook.com/events/887518291321163/
·There will be a few vendor booths, with some nice Christmas gifts, so come prepared to shop if you desire.
·The Cooper is equipped with an amazing gym and pool (included) and spa for massages (extra) if you wish to schedule one ahead of time. Their web site for directions and/or services is:http://www.cooperaerobics.com/Cooper-Hotel.aspx
·We are blessed to be able to provide you with cake and coffee on Friday night, lunch and dinner on Saturday. If you are staying at the Cooper they provide light breakfast (oatmeal, muffins, breads, yogurt, turkey sausage, etc.) However, we are unable to offer meals for those who have special dietary needs. We attempted to make certain there are meats, veggies and/or salads at each meal. But if you are strictly gluten-free or vegan, and concerned about getting enough food, you might want to bring a snack. There is also a La Madeline and a few other restaurants within walking distance.
·This is a women’s event. No men or children are attending.
·Please send us your pictures. We like to claim our wedding anniversaries as, "stepmom birthdays" and celebrate!! So send 1-2 wedding pictures to Carrie Soares at[email protected]by September 18th
·Dress is casual. We will have adorable T-shirts for sale!! We will have a group photo shoot at some point!! PLEASE participate.
·We cannot control the temperature in the conference center, so please dress in layers if you are concerned about being too hot or cold.
·You will receive a handout packet with an agenda. Bring a pen and a camera: YOU WILL want to remember this trip!! Please note we will not be videotaping any of the workshops to respect the privacy of those in attendance so everyone feels safe in sharing and asking questions. Any audio or video taping of the sessions is strictly prohibited.
·We do have a fellow stepmom sister, Edna, who will be interviewing attendees throughout the retreat. We want to capture what you’ve learned and what you’ve gained over the weekend to help future attendees. We value your feedback.
·A Journal: It’s very likely you will experience new, fun, maybe challenging experiences during this weekend. Having a place to track your thoughts is a great idea. PLUS you can look back at it when having a bad day.
·There is WIFI available in most places. But remember this is a RETREAT!!
·I’m a road warrior so I always pack the following: all medicines in purse (not checked luggage), phone charger, wet wipes, a tea bag, small nail clippers/file/scissors, Pepto-Bismol (you never know), Tylenol, band aid, safety pin, antibacterial, airborne, shower cap, ear plugs, and an eye mask.
·If you need additional one-on-one help our team has several life coaches that specialize in stepfamily life. They would be happy to set up a time after the retreat to address your specific issue.
Thank you for taking the time, spending your resources, and going the extra the effort to making your stepfamily better. We believe you will leave refreshed, renewed and better equipped to thrive in the stepmom journey.
It’s our honor and pleasure to assist you along the way!!