Champagne & Cupcakes
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Get on the waiting list for the next one! Send us a message HERE
Highlights from the 2023 Retreat...
"I was nervous about going to the Champagne and Cupcakes retreat, but I am so glad I dove in and reached outside my comfort zone. The setting for the retreat was a lovely, cozy, home with a beautiful patio on which to take breaks and gaze upon. The host(s) provided lots of snacks (I was very impressed that there was always fruit!) to keep our blood sugar up for the weekend of writing and learning. The writing exercises were not only helpful, they were also quite fun. We had the perfect-sized group for critiques (which were constructive and encouraging). The Champagne and Cupcakes retreat was exactly what I needed to move forward with my writing." -Lori C. (Attendee)
Photo credits: Ivanka Dimitrova
Past Events
2023
Are you ready for a spectacular in-person writers' retreat?
Join me and an outstanding faculty of agents and editors for a 2.5-day transformational experience for women picture book writers! Get uplifted and reenergized, advance your craft, receive feedback on your work, use private time to write and revise your projects, network with other amazing writers, and have a ton of fun all around!
The retreat will be intimate, with a very limited number of spots available, and it will be hosted at a private rental residence in the Dallas, TX area, launching with a “red carpet” Champagne & Cupcakes Reception on Friday evening, and Saturday and Sunday workshops with agents and editors, round tables critiques, writing sessions and more. The event will close on Sunday late afternoon with special opportunities for the attendees and lots of inspiration, motivation, and transformation to last you a long time afterwards!
Hurry up and register before all spots are gone! Remember, this is only for a small group of writers, and once the seats are filled, registration will be closed. Plus, don’t miss out on the early bird savings and the handful of VIP seats (as an add-on) that offer some wonderful perks you’d want to grab!
This will be a weekend full of workshops, writing sessions, revisions and implementation, networking, support, plus fun, food, and plenty of fabulous surprises!
Sign up today. I wouldn’t wait!
Are you in?
Here’s a sneak peek of some amazing opportunities:
-private pitch party with industry professionals
-agents and editors' critiques (add-on)
-private VIP dinner with the faculty (add-on)
-special surprise!
-and much more in the works….
This one-of-a-kind dreamy retreat is not to be missed!
The retreat will be intimate, with a very limited number of spots available, and it will be hosted at a private rental residence in the Dallas, TX area, launching with a “red carpet” Champagne & Cupcakes Reception on Friday evening, and Saturday and Sunday workshops with agents and editors, round tables critiques, writing sessions and more. The event will close on Sunday late afternoon with special opportunities for the attendees and lots of inspiration, motivation, and transformation to last you a long time afterwards!
Hurry up and register before all spots are gone! Remember, this is only for a small group of writers, and once the seats are filled, registration will be closed. Plus, don’t miss out on the early bird savings and the handful of VIP seats (as an add-on) that offer some wonderful perks you’d want to grab!
This will be a weekend full of workshops, writing sessions, revisions and implementation, networking, support, plus fun, food, and plenty of fabulous surprises!
Sign up today. I wouldn’t wait!
Are you in?
Here’s a sneak peek of some amazing opportunities:
-private pitch party with industry professionals
-agents and editors' critiques (add-on)
-private VIP dinner with the faculty (add-on)
-special surprise!
-and much more in the works….
This one-of-a-kind dreamy retreat is not to be missed!
Watch the trailer below to get a feel of the experience from last year!
Hosted by
Author & Writing Coach, Rosie J. Pova
Meet the Fabulous Faculty!
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(In-person)
Kristina Sutton, Literary Agent (Focused Artists) Kristina Sutton Lennon is a bilingual, Latiné, media executive and the CEO/Co-Founder of Focused Artists. As a Literary Manager for Focused Artists, she has facilitated book deals with publishers (including HarperCollins and National Geographic) for clients, pitched content to producers, studios and networks, and has projects in various stages of development with production companies. She prides herself on her diverse slate of content and has a proven track record in script development, book and talent scouting. Prior to delving into producing and management, Kristina was an actor (SAG-AFTRA) and educator, teaching acting and improv at the college level. She previously served as a film/tv agent and the Director of the Louisiana Division for a talent agency headquartered in Atlanta. Kristina recently served as the Director of Media Rights at Context Literary Agency. In 2022, Publishers Weekly named her a Star Watch Honoree. Kristina earned her MFA in Acting from Louisiana State University. She is a proud member of NALIP (National Association of Latino Independent Producers). Kristina is also a Mom of two toddlers. |
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(Virtually)
Lisa Amstutz Literary Agent (Storm Literary) Lisa Amstutz is an associate literary agent with Storm Literary Agency and the author of more than 150 children's books. Her background includes a B.A. in Biology and an M.S. in Environmental Science. Lisa has been writing professionally since 2005. She also spent eight years as a freelance editor, working with individual authors and several publishing companies. Lisa previously served as Assistant Regional Advisor for SCBWI: Ohio North and as a volunteer judge for Rate Your Story. |
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(Virtually)
Bethany Jett Literary Agent (C.Y.L.E. Agency) Bethany Jett is an associate literary agent with the C.Y.L.E. agency, as well as a multi-award-winning author, and a marketing strategist who earned top honors in her master’s program, where she earned her MFA in Communications focusing on Marketing and PR. Her motto is “Teach as you go,” which she lives out as the co-owner of Serious Writer, a company that teaches and empowers writers and authors. Bethany is married to her college sweetheart, and together they’re raising 3 teen/tween sons and their Pomeranian Sadie. Connect with her at BethanyJett.com. |
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(Virtual, PB critiques)
Elisa Houot, Literary Agent (Seymour Agency) Elisa Houot is a literary agent at The Seymour Agency and author. Enthusiastic about discovering new voices, Elisa has reviewed novels for an online magazine for five years. She lives in France with her adorable and barking companion, Muffin. She has a BA in English Literature and language and a MA in publishing. Reader, reviewer, book blogger, short story writer, published author, foreign rights agent, literary agent, Elisa has had many roles in the publishing industry, but one of her favorite parts of her job is editing, helping an author bring out the full potential of their story. (In-person)
Jackie Kruzie Author/Librarian/ Olswanger Agency Intern Jackie Kruzie is an author, literacy advocate, and educational program creator who has worn many hats in the book world. She holds a Master of Library Science and has worked in both public and school libraries developing and presenting literacy programs to young readers. She is the creator of the P.A.S.S. Approach, an innovative program to aid librarians in assisting patrons who rely on Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices. Her program is featured in Assisting Patrons with Disabilities distributed through the American Library Association, and was highlighted in Library Magazine. Her debut graphic novel, The Lousy Layup, is set to release Fall 2023 through Capstone Publishing. When her nose isn’t stuck in a book, Jackie enjoys ranch life with her husband where they raise a mess of kids, cows, horses, goats, sheep, and a cacophony of roosters and chickens. She is living the life she loves surrounded by her favorite things; books, kids, and furry animals. Learn more about Jackie’s book and the P.A.S.S. Approach on her website at jackiekruzie.com |
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Organizer and Host
Rosie J. Pova, Children's Author & Writing Coach Rosie J. Pova is a marginalized, multi-published, and award-winning children's author, poet, writing coach, and school presenter. Her picture book, Sunday Rain, was featured in The New York Times and recommended by Parents magazine. Her latest picture book, The School of Failure: A Story About Success is now available in both China and the USA, and has gotten rave reviews from educators, parents, and book reviewers. Some of her other titles include: If I Weren’t with You, Sarah’s Song, and a middle grade novel, Hailey Queen: Pranking Makes Perfect. Rosie’s popular coaching and mentorship programs have helped many aspiring children’s authors advance their careers and reach their publishing goals. Originally from Bulgaria, Rosie now lives in Texas with her family. Find out more about Rosie and her work at www.rosiejpova.com |
Register Now
(By registering for the event, you agree to follow the organizers’ rules and regulations, to be respectful and considerate of others, and to adhere to the guidelines and agenda of the retreat. Any disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. The organizers reserve the right to deny attendance to anyone in violation of the rules and regulations.)
What’s Included in Your Regular Retreat Registration:
Friday
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Champagne & Cupcakes reception plus networking
Saturday & Sunday
Workshops on the craft and business, round table critiques, implementation time, Q&A panel, lunch on Saturday (optional or lunch on your own) and more (TBD).
What’s NOT included for all tickets:
-Airfare
-Lodging (Hotel booking information provided after registration)
-Transportation to and from the retreat venue
-Meals (except for lunch on Saturday and coffee, tea, soft drinks and snacks throughout the event)
Friday
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Champagne & Cupcakes reception plus networking
Saturday & Sunday
Workshops on the craft and business, round table critiques, implementation time, Q&A panel, lunch on Saturday (optional or lunch on your own) and more (TBD).
What’s NOT included for all tickets:
-Airfare
-Lodging (Hotel booking information provided after registration)
-Transportation to and from the retreat venue
-Meals (except for lunch on Saturday and coffee, tea, soft drinks and snacks throughout the event)
PAST EVENTS
2022
2022
We had a blast at the Champagne & Cupcakes Women's Picture Book Writers Retreat! (November 4-6, 2022)
What an amazing weekend it was! We bonded, created, inspired each other, wrote, revised, learned... we laughed, we hugged, we got teary-eyed. Our time together was full of such positive energy and remarkable camaraderie! I know that lifelong friendships were formed, that new books will be born, and that we are all looking forward to the next opportunity to get together and repeat the experience.
How about you?
"It's a brilliant, inspiring, value-packed, empowering event, you should absolutely consider attending.... It was the overall experience, the feeling of encouragement, hope, and confidence it left me with. The inspiration and the fact that I didn't have to worry about ever forgetting any of it, as it was simply unforgettable." --Ivanka Dimitrova via her blog post review
For an in-depth recap of the entire retreat experience, read Ivanka Dimitrova's blog post review HERE
How about you?
"It's a brilliant, inspiring, value-packed, empowering event, you should absolutely consider attending.... It was the overall experience, the feeling of encouragement, hope, and confidence it left me with. The inspiration and the fact that I didn't have to worry about ever forgetting any of it, as it was simply unforgettable." --Ivanka Dimitrova via her blog post review
For an in-depth recap of the entire retreat experience, read Ivanka Dimitrova's blog post review HERE
Here are some highlights from the weekend, more to come....
What attendees are saying
"You will learn more in a weekend than you would on your own in two years. It is an experience for the heart mind and soul." -Virginia B.
"It was an incredible event!!!" -Ivanka D.
"This retreat was one of the most valuable and rewarding weekends I've had in a long time! INSPIRING, REWARDING, VALUABLE, FUN!
"Truly the best retreat! Thank you for such a wonderful weekend <3 <3 <3
I truly loved every element! But I especially loved the workshops. I felt that I learned so much truly invaluable information about both the craft and the business!" -Rose W.
[Writers] don't think twice! You will not regret spending a weekend with Rosie and Jackie. They are true experts in the field and will guide you in the right direction. They are true gems in the children's picture book industry! I cannot thank them enough for all they did for me and my manuscripts over the weekend." -Blair W.
"It was incredible! Can't wait to do it again!" Jackie Kruzie
*Read more about the retreat experience on Blair's blog
"You will learn more in a weekend than you would on your own in two years. It is an experience for the heart mind and soul." -Virginia B.
"It was an incredible event!!!" -Ivanka D.
"This retreat was one of the most valuable and rewarding weekends I've had in a long time! INSPIRING, REWARDING, VALUABLE, FUN!
"Truly the best retreat! Thank you for such a wonderful weekend <3 <3 <3
I truly loved every element! But I especially loved the workshops. I felt that I learned so much truly invaluable information about both the craft and the business!" -Rose W.
[Writers] don't think twice! You will not regret spending a weekend with Rosie and Jackie. They are true experts in the field and will guide you in the right direction. They are true gems in the children's picture book industry! I cannot thank them enough for all they did for me and my manuscripts over the weekend." -Blair W.
"It was incredible! Can't wait to do it again!" Jackie Kruzie
*Read more about the retreat experience on Blair's blog
Does this sound like your dream retreat? If you wish to be notified about the next one, get on the waiting list now. This is a very intimate event with lots of personal attention and high productivity, so we will cap it at nine attendees.
Fill out the contact form so we can add you to the waiting list.
Fill out the contact form so we can add you to the waiting list.
T H I S E V E N T I S N O W C O M P L E T E
Join award-winning children's author, Rosie J. Pova and special guest Jackie Kruzie for a writers' retreat in Dallas, Texas
11/4/22-11/6/22!
Are you ready for a spectacular in-person writers’ retreat?
Join me for a 2-day transformational experience for women picture book writers that will inspire you, help you advance your craft, provide feedback to help you revise your projects, give you insight into the publishing business, and so much more!
This will be a weekend full of workshops, writing sessions, revisions and implementation, networking, support, plus fun, food, and plenty of fabulous surprises!
The retreat will be intimate, with a very limited number of seats available, and will be hosted at a private rental residence in the Dallas, TX area, launching with a “red carpet” Champagne & Cupcakes Reception on Friday evening, and Saturday and Sunday workshops, round tables, writing sessions etc. The retreat will conclude on Sunday afternoon with special opportunities for the attendees and tons of inspiration, motivation, and transformation!
Hurry up and register before all spots are gone! Remember, this is only for a small group of writers, and once the seats are filled, registration will be closed. Plus, don’t miss out on the early bird registration and the handful of VIP seats (as an add-on) that offer some wonderful perks you’d want to grab! (Only 8 VIP seats are offered!)
Sign up today. I wouldn’t wait!
Are you in?
Upgrade your weekend with our VIP package!
Our VIPs get:
-A private dinner with Rosie, Jackie, and the VIP Club Saturday night.
-A personal live critique and feedback on your picture book from Rosie and Jackie. During your 20-minute session, you'll get a chance to ask questions about your story too! (Time will be assigned on-site.)
-A second picture book critique (written) from one of our remote faculty members (your choice, first come-first-served): Yeehoo Editor Helen Wu or Bradford Literary Agent Kaitlyn Sanchez!
-A private dinner with Rosie, Jackie, and the VIP Club Saturday night.
-A personal live critique and feedback on your picture book from Rosie and Jackie. During your 20-minute session, you'll get a chance to ask questions about your story too! (Time will be assigned on-site.)
-A second picture book critique (written) from one of our remote faculty members (your choice, first come-first-served): Yeehoo Editor Helen Wu or Bradford Literary Agent Kaitlyn Sanchez!
Helen H. Wu is a children’s book author, illustrator, and publisher. She is the author of TOFU TAKES TIME, illustrated by Julie Jarema (Beaming Books, 2022) and LONG GOES TO DRAGON SCHOOL, illustrated by Mae Besom (Yeehoo Press, 2023). Helen is the publisher of Yeehoo Press, a children’s book publisher based in San Diego, California. Being fascinated by the differences and similarities between cultures, Helen loves to share stories that can empower children to understand the world and our connections. Born and raised in Hefei, China, Helen moved to the US in her 20s. Currently, she resides in sunny Southern California, with her family and two kids. Learn more about Helen at helenhwu.com and follow her on Twitter at @HelenHWu and on Instagram at @HelenHWu.
Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez is a mom, wife, agent with Bradford Literary Agency, and middle school math teacher. She's also the proud co-creator and co-host of the Spring Fling Kidlit Contest and Kidlit Zombie Week as well as creator and co-host of the Kidlit Fall Writing Frenzy Contest. In her free time, she loves to play soccer, binge-watch TV shows, and, of course, read, especially when she's all cozied up with her husband and daughter reading together.
Website: https://kaitlynleannsanchez.com/
Twitter: @KaitlynLeann17
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaitlynLeann17
Please follow my clients on social media: https://kaitlynleannsanchez.com/literary-clients/
What’s included with your registration:
Agenda subject to change without notification
Friday
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Champagne & Cupcakes reception plus networking
Saturday & Sunday
Workshops on the craft and business, round table critiques, implementation time, Q&A panel, lunch on Saturday (optional or lunch on your own) and more (TBD).
What’s NOT included:
-Airfare
-Lodging (attendees are responsible for booking their own hotel)
-Transportation to and from the retreat venue
-Meals (except for lunch on Saturday and some drinks and snacks)
IMPORTANT! Refund Policy: Refund requests can only be made up to two (2) weeks after registration minus $100 for transaction and admin fees. No refunds will be issued after that period. However, an event ticket can be transferred to another female writer to attend instead, but the swap must be arranged by the original ticket holder. The organizer will not be held responsible for any failed arrangements on ticket transfers.
Agenda subject to change without notification
Friday
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Champagne & Cupcakes reception plus networking
Saturday & Sunday
Workshops on the craft and business, round table critiques, implementation time, Q&A panel, lunch on Saturday (optional or lunch on your own) and more (TBD).
What’s NOT included:
-Airfare
-Lodging (attendees are responsible for booking their own hotel)
-Transportation to and from the retreat venue
-Meals (except for lunch on Saturday and some drinks and snacks)
IMPORTANT! Refund Policy: Refund requests can only be made up to two (2) weeks after registration minus $100 for transaction and admin fees. No refunds will be issued after that period. However, an event ticket can be transferred to another female writer to attend instead, but the swap must be arranged by the original ticket holder. The organizer will not be held responsible for any failed arrangements on ticket transfers.
Meet Your Weekend Retreat Faculty!
Hosted By: Rosie J. Pova
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Rosie J. Pova is a multi-published, award-winning children's author and kidlit Writing Coach. She's the creator of *Picture Book Mastery System* that helps children's writers advance their career and get closer to their publishing goals through her 10-week online course and her 6-week mentorship program.
Rosie's picture book, Sunday Rain, was featured in The New York Times and recommended by Parents magazine. Her latest picture book, The School of Failure: A Story About Success is now available in both China and the USA, and has gotten rave reviews from educators, parents, and book reviewers. Rosie also loves to visit schools and her interactive workshops empower students to unleash their creativity and grow in confidence through reading, writing, and creating. Teachers and librarians love Rosie for her bubbly, upbeat personality which captures students' attention, encourages them to think creatively, and motivates them to pursue big dreams. She has been featured on TV, radio, podcasts, and print media, and also speaks on women's and moms’ topics, sharing her journey from a Bulgarian immigrant to a published author. Find out more about Rosie's books, online courses, mentorships, and her work by visiting her website: RosieJPova.com |
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Special Guest: Jackie Kruzie
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Jackie Kruzie is a picture book author, editor, and librarian. She worked in both public and school libraries before transitioning to publishing where she edited STEM picture books and short chapter books for early readers.
In addition to writing pictures books, she is a contributing author to a sensitivity and inclusivity training textbook for librarians assisting patrons who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices (American Library Association). As a parent of a child who uses AAC this project is near and dear to her heart. Jackie lives on farm in Texas with her husband where they raise children, cattle, goats, sheep, horses, rabbits, and a cacophony of chickens. |
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A message from our special guest Author/Editor/Librarian Jackie Kruzie:
"I have worn many hats in the #publishing industry including #author #editor and #librarain and I am sharing my secrets! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing process, advice on snagging work-for-hire projects, and how to get noticed by librarians. See you at the Champagne & Cupcakes Retreat!"
"I have worn many hats in the #publishing industry including #author #editor and #librarain and I am sharing my secrets! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the publishing process, advice on snagging work-for-hire projects, and how to get noticed by librarians. See you at the Champagne & Cupcakes Retreat!"
Are you excited yet? Because we can't wait to see you in Dallas!
Get registered today as space is limited! Make your weekend extra special with a VIP ticket that gets you a 20 minute one-on-one picture book critique and feedback from Rosie and Jackie. Plus, you'll get a private dinner with Rosie, Jackie and the VIP Writer's Club on Saturday night!
Take advantage of the Early Bird registration discount! Save $100 on registration when you sign up by midnight on September 20th.
Registration for the retreat closes on October 20th.
Refund Policy: Refund requests can only be made up to one (1) week after registration minus $100 for transaction and admin fees. No refunds will be issued after that period. However, an event ticket can be transferred to another female writer to attend instead, but the swap must be arranged by the original ticket holder. The organizer will not be held responsible for any failed arrangements on ticket transfers. NO refunds after 10/15/22.
Take advantage of the Early Bird registration discount! Save $100 on registration when you sign up by midnight on September 20th.
Registration for the retreat closes on October 20th.
Refund Policy: Refund requests can only be made up to one (1) week after registration minus $100 for transaction and admin fees. No refunds will be issued after that period. However, an event ticket can be transferred to another female writer to attend instead, but the swap must be arranged by the original ticket holder. The organizer will not be held responsible for any failed arrangements on ticket transfers. NO refunds after 10/15/22.