Retreats are designed to ignite change, but all too often feel like a school camp - with bad food, bunk beds and cold showers. Holidays, on the other hand, can be luxurious and relaxing, but don’t offer much in the way of lasting change.
That’s where Spark comes in. Like a holiday, it will give you the opportunity to relax in an incredible environment, make new friends and be entertained by world-class artists. Like a retreat, there will be various events designed to help you spark change in your personal and professional life.
THE SETTING
Spark takes place in the award-winning Crawfordsburn Inn, which dates back to the reign of Queen Elizabeth I and has given shelter to figures such as Swift, Trollope, Dickens, Dick Turpin and Peter the Great, not to mention being a favorite haunt of contemporary artists like Van Morrison. The Inn also held a special place in the heart of C.S. Lewis who visited often and who spent his honeymoon there with Joy Davidman. Indeed, the Inn is overlooks the forest that reputedly inspired his vision of Narnia. And it is located just 20 minutes from Belfast (winner of World’s Best Region for Tourism in 2017 by Lonely Planet).
WHAT ARE THE DATES?
Spark will be kicking off on 9th October (with check-in from 2pm), and finishes on 13th October.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
This is an all-inclusive event. The ticket covers all accommodation, meals, activities and wine receptions (although the hotel bar isn’t included). In terms of the food, you'll enjoy a full Irish breakfast each morning, lunch every afternoon and a leisurely three-course meal every evening in the award-winning Lewis restaurant.
THE CONTENT
This is a bespoke event, meaning that I will be taking time to find out why you’re attending and then building the program around those needs. Not only will I be speaking, facilitating discussions and answering questions, but I’ll also be bringing in specific experts to address your needs.
The five days will be filled with live music, art, workshops, talks, tours, tastings, comedy, coaching, magic and more. One day you might want to sit with an expert and get advice about your work, walk in the forest, or chat with a new friend over drinks. The next day you could grab a coffee and listen to professionals talk about the creative process. Alternatively, jump into a workshop aimed at helping you start a podcast, find a book deal, or face personal shadows. Or perhaps you’ll opt out of everything for a while, sitting by the outdoor fire and taking in the breathtaking view.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
Think of Spark as a luxurious holiday that is carefully crafted to help inspire you, challenge you, and get your creativity flowing.