Writing Workshops & Retreats
Every workshop and retreat begins the same way — with a simple prompt, a pen, and a circle of people ready to explore what stories are waiting to be told.
These gatherings are for anyone who wants to write, whether you’re starting a memoir, finding your creative spark again, or simply curious about the stories you carry. Together, we write to prompts, listen to one another, and share encouragement in a kind and supportive space.
Our writing workshops and retreats take place in atmospheric venues that inspire creativity — from cozy kitchens by the sea and yoga centers under the Spanish sun, to quiet studios on islands off the coast of Maine or Martha’s Vineyard. Each location has its own magic, but the spirit is always the same: community, creativity, and the power of the prompt.
Join in.
If you’d like to hear about upcoming workshops, retreats, and creative gatherings, subscribe at the bottom of the page, or email Lara to chat.
UPCOMING
Workshops, retreats, and gatherings that celebrate creativity, community, and the written word.
Summer Storytelling and Writing Workshops
Spots Available
5
Date(s)
July 9th - August 13th Thursdays
Description
In this summer writing workshop we will focus on writing, sharing, editing and preparing a few stories for short story competition or literary events or to simply begin a collection. We will start writing to prompts and take at least 2 stories, complete them so you are happy with the results and consider them, finished.
Join me for a fun, interactive and fulfilling workshop and storytelling experience.
Cost
250 EURO or 270$
Time(s)
7 - 9pm and 2-4pm US time
Writing & Yoga Retreat – Suryalila, Spain
Spots Available
15
Date(s)
March 13 – March 20th, 2027
Description
A week of writing, yoga, and connection in Europe’s number one yoga retreat centre, nestled in the rolling hills of Cádiz. Each day combines gentle yoga and meditation with creative writing workshops led by Lara, designed to help you explore and discover your life story and reconnect with your creative self. Evenings bring nourishing meals, optional flamenco, cacao ceremonies, and the warmth of shared stories. This is truely a unique, warm and welcoming experience.
Now accepting bookings
Cost
Inquire
Time(s)
n/a
Writing to the Celtic Calendar 1 year
Spots Available
6
Date(s)
July 8 - Aug 12, 2026
Description
6-Week Workshops in small groups.
Join Lara O'Brien founder of Howth Writing Workshops and Hooks & Reels (evenings of story and song), author of The Power of the Prompt.
We will write our life stories around the Celtic Calendar, enriching our words and stories through the lens of nature and of the seasonal changes.
We will write, share, and receive/give feedback to support the writing and stories.
You will explore your life stories to start a memoir, crack open and polish one good story, or simply enjoy the writing process. It takes curiosity and courage, but the invitation is to begin a more creative life.
Securing your seat by signing up laraobrienbooks@gmail.com
Cost
$270 / € 250
Time(s)
7 pm - 9 pm
Howth Writing Retreat
Spots Available
10
Date(s)
Oct 26 - 29, 2026
Description
Be part of the Howth Samhain Festival and the magic of Hooks & Reels. Spend four mornings immersed in focused writing within a beautiful, historic coastal venue. Afternoons are yours to wander the pier, explore castle trails, or share stories over coffee with fellow writers.
After four days of writing and discovery, enjoy a special Hooks & Reels evening of story and song at the Abbey Tavern, Howth — a celebration of creativity and community to close the retreat.
Cost
400 Euros or 450 USD
Time(s)
10 am - 1 pm
Writing to the Celtic Calendar 1 year
Spots Available
6
Date(s)
Nov 4 - Dec 9, 2026
Description
6-Week Workshops in small groups.
Join Lara O'Brien founder of Howth Writing Workshops and Hooks & Reels (evenings of story and song), author of The Power of the Prompt.
We will write our life stories around the Celtic Calendar, enriching our words and stories through the lens of nature and of the seasonal changes.
We will write, share, and receive/give feedback to support the writing and stories.
You will explore your life stories to start a memoir, crack open and polish one good story, or simply enjoy the writing process. It takes curiosity and courage, but the invitation is to begin a more creative life.
Securing your seat by signing up.
Cost
€ 250 /$ 270
Time(s)
7 pm - 9 pm
Book Launch and Hooks & Reels style event in Stillpoint MV
Spots Available
50
Date(s)
June 13th
Description
Join us for a wonderful afternoon of storytelling, music by Violet Southwick, and interview with Lara and Nicole Galland. Fun, bookish and musical, an afternoon of story and song.
Cost
donation
Time(s)
3-5pm
.jpg)
.jpg)
Testimonials & Kind Words
“I am one of the many Katherines who attended your Women's writing workshop last Saturday - the one who lost her husband seven months ago - and I wanted to thank you for offering such an excellent workshop.
I found the Irish cultural center workshop more healing and encouraging than many of the therapy sessions I've been to in recent years and weeks, so thanks for providing such a warm and nurturing space.
I especially appreciated your excellent feedback on our writings - you really have a knack for picking out the best in everyone's work, and for encouraging folks to keep writing.” — Katherine Roth
“Lara, the whole process of your writing workshop has been a gift. In addition to finding freedom with words and expressions, developing community with stimulating discussion is always invaluable. Getting a broader perspective of life benefits all of us.
I appreciate how well you listen and analyze our writing. My writing and story are stronger from the workshops, thank you.” — Mark Davis
Lara is an integral part of the Martha’s Vineyard writing community. An enchanting writer herself, she generously devotes her time to supporting island non-profits with innovative writing based-programming. She’s a valued mentor to island students, both in school and out, and runs highly regarded workshops on memoir and personal essay-writing.
I know from my own happy experience as a workshop facilitator that Lara draws a group together and elicits their best work. Her warm, vibrant and joyful personality and her ability to forge immediate connections is a true asset to any group.” — Geraldine Brooks, Pulitzer Prize winner for fiction