New Retreat Center arrived!
IOn 9/9/2024, I received the keys to what is now the Crafty Glo Creative Retreat Center, AKA Pensacola Retreat Center.
Why 2 names?
There was a brainstorming process that happened. I wanted a quilting retreat center. But like many, I have crafting ADHD so I wanted it to be more than just quilting. Sewing, crochet, scrapbooking, painting, resin-work, THE SKY IS THE LIMIT!!!!! (cue evil laugh). I modeled it after my FB and IG handles, Crafty Glo and decided to go with Creative Retreat Center. A place for folks to escape the world and get in touch with their creative side. When it came time to pick ny website address, craftyglocreativeretreatcenter sounded like a mouthful. I’ve done enough vendor shows with my besties at Class Creations now to know that when giving out your contact info, shorter is sweeter. Plus, the SEO overlords whispered to me in the middle of the night that my website address should draw attention but not spill all the beans. Thus, Pensacola Retreat Center was born. Which should you call me? Anything as long as I’m not late for dinner, haha. Just kidding, you can call me either way that is comfortable for you.
In less than a month, I got a new roof, a new HVAC unit, repaired the other HVAC unit, remodeled an insane amount of electrical work, cleaned the place up, and bought a decent amount of furniture to make this place habitable. Beds for the rooms, curtains, towels, etc. Don’t even get me started on the chairs! Chairs for sitting, chairs for sewing, chairs for knitting, rocking chairs, chairs for the bedrooms, chairs for the pool. Seating is important people! A butt is a precious thing that should not be uncomfortable.
My husband has been incredibly supportive. He bought be a TV and basic kitchen appliances. He painstakingly assembles all those beds, tables, nightstands, and everything else. It got to a point that he would just walk in the house and grab a box without even looking at it and just start assembling it. Like a fun puzzle that makes you say bad words when you realized you put a hinge on wrong.
My friends have been great. Coming over to help with assembly while the kids all enjoyed the massive pool. Helping me sweep and clean and sanitize. Stephanie, Jess, Valerie, and even Brian (all from Class Creations) doing their part to send me a set of their notions, sewing mats, and rulers to get me started. The support for this crazy project and (hopefully) retirement plan for me has been INSANE.
Even my friends out there in the digital world have been amazing to me. Buying my shirts, sharing my posts, and talking about me and the retreat center to everyone they know.
Starting a business is nerve-wrecking. I made fun of Stephanie all the time for her panic attacks when the bills would start to arrive and as I get ready for my first mortgage payment in November, I feel my breathe getting shorter and my reach towards the wine cabinet getting far more accurate.
But let me tell you. As I closed up this 1st retreat, I felt proud. Oh there were tons of mistakes and mishaps. But still, I was super proud. I can’t wait for the memories that will be made here.
Next Blog I’ll dig into setting up my first retreat.
