Please join us for a Maker’s Retreat at the Salamander Resort and Spa, a sophisticated country estate in charming Middleburg, Va. For this first ever Finch Retreat, we will sew, knit, and craft together in beautifully appointed surroundings. True to the Finch experience, there will be lots of bonding with friends, great food and spirits, unique projects, and…. did I mention that April Rhodes will be joining us? I know. APRIL RHODES!!! In all seriousness, April is just as nice as she can be. You are going to love her, and, what’s also great is the girl knows her stuff!! We’re really honored to have her…. thanks, April!

Image from April Rhodes’ website
Fill your cup with inspiration and fellowship >>—->
The weekend will be broken into several intimate social crafting gatherings as well as one feature workshop (this will occupy most of Saturday and Sunday). For the feature workshop, you’ll choose one of the following; Apparel Sewing, Quilting, or Knitting. In the evenings, we’ll curl up by the fire in the library and work on a smaller project, similar to our ever-popular sip and sew events. We’re also hoping to open up a few pop-up shops for you during the weekend (Finch as well as other Virginia shops).
The Feature Workshops >>—->
Quilting: Anna Haller, member of the DCMQG and a beloved Finch Teacher will be at the helm for this workshop. We’ll be working on making a bag using the quilt as you go method, a great project for beginners and advanced quilters alike.
Apparel Sewing: Nicole Morgenthau, owner of Finch Sewing Studio and April Rhodes, fabric and apparel pattern designer will facilitate a hands on workshop focused on sewing apparel items. Attendees will select a pattern to work on, and Nicole and April will assist in achieving a well-fitting garment. For those who are up for the challenge, we will work on making modifications to garment patterns such as changing a neckline, adding or removing sleeves, merging two patterns together, and whatever else your little heart desires! We’ll also give you some tips for great finishing details to take your apparel sewing to the next level!
Knitting: Angela Helge, one of our bright and cheery Finch Teachers, will guide attendees in a knitting workshop for both beginners and experienced knitters alike. We have several projects selected as choices for this workshop- make a cowl or fingerless gloves to warm up your winter.
While we have most of the details already in place, we want to tailor the experience to each individual. When you sign up, we’ll send you a brief survey in order to enroll you in the workshops you are most interested in attending.

Image from the Salamander Resort website
There will be opportunity for attendees to do some sightseeing in beautiful Middleburg and the surrounding countryside. The town is a short walk from the resort, and there is also transportation provided into town from the resort.
Accommodations >>—->
Each room is a 575 square foot queen double room. The Finch is all about building community, so we plan for attendees to share a room with either your besty or a newly found Finch kindred spirit. No need to feel like you need to bring a friend – we’ll find you a roomy who shares similar interests! And besides, Finches are the sweetest little birds. You’re sure to love your roomy whether you knew her before or not.
Set on 340 acres in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains amid Virginia’s famed horse country and lush vineyards, and just 35 minutes from Washington Dulles International Airport, Salamander Resort & Spa features 168 luxurious rooms and suites, a luxury spa, full-service equestrian center, Virginia Piedmont-inspired dining, a dedicated cooking studio, wine bar, billiards room and a unique array of conference and banquet facilities.

Images from the Salamander Resort Website

Image from the Salamander Resort website.
As in a fine home, guests enter into the Living Room overlooking the Grand Lawn and surrounding woods, with miles of trails and outdoor activities that begin to introduce you to the mystique of the equestrian world and lifestyle.

Image from the Salamander Resort website.

Image from the Salamander Resort website.
In keeping with the country estate design, all 168 rooms and suites of this Middleburg, VA, hotel are spacious at a minimum size of 545 square-feet, and also include a separate casual relaxation corner, dining table, full-size desk, and outdoor patio or balcony with dining options. The luxurious bathroom includes a marble shower with body jets, pedestal tub, dual sinks and enclosed water closet.
What’s included and how much? >>—->
The retreat is very competitively priced at $695. This includes your 2-night stay at the Luxurious Salamander, a kick-off cocktail party on Friday night, and workshops and social gatherings throughout the weekend. Meals are the responsibility of the attendee, as are materials for the Feature Workshop. Upon registering, attendees will receive a $25 Finch voucher along with a list of suggested supplies you’ll need in order to purchase patterns and materials for the Feature Workshop. Supplies for all other workshops during the retreat are included. You’ll also receive a swag bag that will make you the envy of the crafty universe! (Seriously… it’s true).
Tickets are NON REFUNDABLE but are transferable for a limited time. You may sell your tickets to another interested party- please let us know their contact information. Transportation is NOT included. You must bring your own sewing machine.
When you register, you will be given the choice to pay in full or in two payments. If you choose to pay in two installments, the first will be $350.00, the second will be $345.00, and will be charged to your card on November 15th. We’ll take your card number or Paypal email in the Survey after you register/pay the first payment.
SPACE IS LIMITED! We want this event to be intimate and so we have chosen to open up a limited number of spaces.

Image from the Salamander Resort website.
We hope you will join us for this fun and inspiring event- we’re going to pamper you terribly! Sign up here.
