Asheville, NC: November 17-22, 2024

Prepare your senses for an extraordinary journey of inspiration and discovery in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains! We are thrilled to invite you to a special retreat that marries the beauty of quilting with the breathtaking charm of Asheville, North Carolina. This unique getaway is designed not just for crafting, but to immerse you in experiences that enrich your quilting passion through exploration and connection.

Asheville is not just a city; it's an experience, rich in art, history, and natural beauty. It's the perfect setting for our quilting-themed excursions, providing a tapestry of inspiration that will weave into your craft in unexpected and marvelous ways.

And what could be more enchanting than an exclusive excursion to the Biltmore at Christmastime? As part of our retreat, we'll take you on a magical journey to America's largest home, adorned with Christmas decorations that transform the estate into a winter wonderland. The Biltmore, with its exquisite architecture, historic artifacts, and stunning gardens, offers a unique glimpse into the past, while its holiday grandeur inspires awe and wonder. This special visit aims to ignite your creativity, bringing a festive spirit to your quilting designs.

This retreat offers the perfect blend of relaxation, inspiration, and community. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share stories, and draw inspiration from the beauty and history of Asheville. It’s a chance to see how quilting intertwines with culture, history, and nature, providing fresh perspectives and ideas for your craft.

Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to secure your spot for this unforgettable adventure.

Double Occupancy: $1999
Single Occupancy: $2549

Register by August 15, 2024

April Jaehn

April, a passionate quilter and embroidery educator whose journey began in the picturesque landscapes of Hungary. Without speaking the local language, April turned to YouTube, where she delved into the world of patchwork, transforming her passion into a vibrant tapestry of creativity and learning.

Upon retirement, April dedicated a year to rediscover her aspirations, leading her to the heart of the quilting community - the local quilt store. It was here, amidst fabrics and threads, that April found her true calling. Joining Stitcher’s Quest in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, in 2017 marked the start of a fulfilling chapter, enriched with continuous learning, laughter, and the formation of lifelong friendships.

In 2021, April's quilting voyage took an exciting turn as she became a traveling educator with OESD, an esteemed Oklahoma-based machine embroidery house. This role has allowed her to weave together her three greatest passions: the art of machine embroidery, empowering customers through confidence-building, and exploring new destinations.

April's design preferences are as bold as her journey, with a penchant for rich, saturated colors and bold patterns. Away from the sewing machine, she's either dreaming about her next project, discussing quilting techniques, or planning her next quilting adventure.

Elisabeth DeMoo

Elisabeth DeMoo grew up on a farm in New Mexico, where she discovered her love for sewing by creating garments in 4-H. While in college, Elisabeth had a hunch that her sewing skills could be applied to quilting, and she has been hooked ever since. With over two decades of experience in quilting, Elisabeth's passion for the craft remains as strong as ever, and she is constantly looking forward to her next project.

As a self-proclaimed craft-o-holic, Elisabeth's desire to create is a driving force in her life, and she happily embraces it. With a list of over 10 ongoing projects at any given time, she is always busy with new ideas and inspirations. Three years ago, Elisabeth began pursuing her ultimate goal of becoming a fabric designer, which led her to create the popular Brown Birds Designs blog. Through her blog, Elisabeth shares her creativity and expertise with a wide audience of fellow quilters and crafters, inspiring and encouraging them to explore their own creativity.

Embark on a magical journey this Christmas season to the enchanting Biltmore Estate, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As you approach the grand entrance, the first glimpse of the sprawling estate, adorned with festive decorations and twinkling lights, sets the tone for an unforgettable experience. The Biltmore, America's largest home, transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting guests to explore its opulent rooms, each meticulously decorated with dazzling Christmas trees, ornate holiday decor, and warm, inviting fireplaces.

The excursion begins with a guided tour of the majestic mansion, where you'll marvel at the intricate details of its architecture and the rich history encapsulated within its walls. Each room tells a story, enhanced by the festive ambiance and the scent of fresh pine and gingerbread wafting through the air. After exploring the interior, the adventure continues outdoors, where the estate's expansive grounds offer breathtaking views and an array of activities. Take a leisurely stroll through the meticulously maintained gardens, now a serene winter landscape, or embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride, snuggled under blankets as you take in the estate's beauty from a different perspective.

As evening falls, the estate glows with an ethereal beauty, illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights. The Antler Hill Village lights up with holiday cheer, offering wine tastings at the Biltmore Winery, delightful dining options, and the opportunity to find the perfect Christmas gift at one of the quaint shops. Throughout your visit, the sounds of carolers and holiday music fill the air, adding to the festive spirit.

This Christmas excursion to the Biltmore Estate is not just a visit; it's an experience that captures the joy, wonder, and magic of the season. The Biltmore at Christmas time offers an unparalleled celebration of the holiday spirit, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.