Last summer, my husband and I were planning on traveling to Greece for a getaway. Initially, what was meant to be a trip to recharge and reignite my creative fire turned into an unexpected opportunity. I have been a follower of Hôtel Weekend for a while, and I noticed a post about Mèlisses on their Instagram. Upon seeing how beautiful it was, I had to reach out to the founder, Allegra Pomilio, about meeting up.

It was kismet. She extended a stay to Curtis and I on behalf of Mèlisses. Allegra and I shared lemonade and treats and sat outside and talked for hours. It resulted in an unforgettable en plein air painting experience.

But that's not all folks! The magic and sea salt spray of Andros was not just a one time event. I'm going back this time to lead the En Plein Air Retreat in May. I will be hosting alongside natural dyer, Kathryn Davey, trained chef, Letitia Clark, and Mèlisses’ founder Allegra Pomilio. 

On the topic of the retreat, 

This retreat is open to all, regardless of your level of expertise (dreamers and novices rejoice!) The other creatives and I will stand alongside you and teach you the techniques necessary to expand your creative abilities. What I love about this retreat is the collaborative nature of it all: the natural dyes you source with Kathryn will be used to create compositions led by me. And the food prepared by Letitia will fill your bellies as well as fuel your imagination.

And if that wasn't enough to get your heart soaring, the retreat center is stunning. Mèlisses aims to embrace the local flora and fauna in their design. The space mimics the open spaces, the rocks, the sea, the sky. Hellenic furniture meets natural floors and walls, and windows that beckon the visitor to sprint into the Aegean sea.

This will be a trip that you think about for years. I am so blessed to cohost this event with these talented creatives. 

Click here to read more about the retreat and snag one of the final spots.

I can't wait to see you there! Feel free to shoot me an email if you have any other questions.