A Writing Retreat in Beautiful West County
About this Event
Memoir Writing Workshop for Women
Crafting Your Life Story
Saturday, September 26th, 1-5pm in the OCA Studio
$127 for OCA Members
$147 for non-Members
Transform Your Memories into Meaningful Narrative
A Writing Retreat in Beautiful West County
Ready to tell your story? Your memories are waiting to become literature.
Discover the power of your personal story and learn to craft it with authenticity, depth, and literary grace.
Workshop Overview
Join us for an immersive memoir writing experience designed to help you uncover, shape, and share the stories that have defined your life. Whether you're a complete beginner or have been writing for years, this workshop will provide you with the tools and confidence to transform your memories into compelling prose.
What You will Learn:
- Memory Mining Techniques: Discover how to access and explore your most meaningful experiences
- Narrative Structure: Master the art of organizing your life events into engaging storylines
- Voice & Perspective: Develop your unique authorial voice and choose the right point of view
- Scene Construction: Learn to craft vivid, cinematic scenes that bring your memories to life
- Truth vs. Accuracy: Navigate the ethical and creative considerations of memoir writing
- Character Development: Portray yourself and others with complexity and compassion
- Revision Strategies: Polish your work through effective editing techniques
Workshop Format
- Duration: One Saturday ( 4 hours total)
- Class Size: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention
- Format: Interactive sessions combining instruction, writing exercises, and peer feedback
- Materials Provided: Writing prompts, handouts, and recommended reading list
Who Should Attend
- Aspiring memoir writers at any experience level
- Anyone interested in preserving family history
- Writers looking to explore personal narrative
- Individuals seeking therapeutic writing experiences
- Those curious about the memoir genre
What to Bring
- Notebook and writing materials
- Open mind and willingness to share (in a supportive environment)
- No previous writing experience necessary
Led By
Alaura O’Dell MFA, an experienced memoir author and writing instructor, will guide you through each step of the creative process with warmth, expertise, and encouragement. Alaura has guest lectured at Santa Rosa Junior College, Marin College and Sonoma State University. O’Dell is currently working on a memoir, which has attracted an international publisher. For over 30 years she has lead women’s workshops and classes, including with her company, Sacred Journeys for Women, facilitating retreats to sacred sites around the world.
Event venue & nearby stays
Occidental Center For the Arts, 3850 Doris Murphy Court, Occidental, United States
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