I feel like I blinked my eyes and it went from August to October in seconds. I hosted my annual Inspired by Nature Retreat in South Haven, MI this weekend and had such an amazing time. I can't thank my students enough for making the event such a joyful and relaxing event. I worked hard to make it a special weekend for them!
I love to package up the gift bags and kits into special fall packaging to set the mood. The folders for our retreat had the illustration and quote above.
The gift bags had ceramic pendants from Firefly Design Studio, Gardanne Beads and Humblebeads. I gifted a few extras like sari ribbon, waxed linen and Vintaj leaves. (Photo by Loralee Kolton)
We started our weekend with the Forest Fascinations Button workshop by making molds, beads and painting with Swellagent. My students searched outside the retreat center for inspiring nature finds to incorporate into their molds. This set was created by Sarajo Wentling and was one of her first experiences with polymer clay. I think I created polymer clay addict!
Lin Standke was a fast study, as a long time retreat student she always stretches and puts her spin on the projects. Before the end of the our evening Lin was sporting a pair of earrings made with her Forest Fascinations components.
We woke up early the next day for a hearty breakfast and jumped into making more beads. This time I shared how to create marbled faux fossils. 
Student work by Loralee Kolton.
Student work by Beverly Herman - my mom! She is a seed bead artist so she enjoyed getting out of her comfort zone with metal and clay. I'm so proud of her!
Sarajo and Loralee showing off their creations. You can read about Sarajo's adventure on her blog.
This is my happy place! I can still hear the waves, so peaceful and relaxing.
Our thoroughly inspired group wearing their jewelry on the last day of our retreat.
On the Sunday we created adjustable wire bangles that everyone got to wear home!
My online retreat is has also began and I'd love to have you join us! Sign up here.
This time of year my brain is on fire with inspiration, filled with the colors and textures surrounding me! These are some of the beads I created for the retreat and will have them in my Facebook group Friday morning.
