I cannot tell you how much my heart "soared" when I heard SOAR was coming relatively close to my area! I have only just recently begun spinning and have enjoyed learning so much through the magazine but long for a chance to spend a weekend with fellow spinners.  

However, I was crushed when I discovered the cost of the weekend.  I find the accommodation prices to be extremely fair considering the cost includes meals.  But I am confused as to why the cost of the retreat and/or workshops are so much? I am simply asking out of ignorance - I can sense from your magazines that you would try to do everything you can to keep the cost down, to enable as many as possible to attend - but simply don't understand what could cost that much.  

I don't think you are trying to make money from the event - I am simply curious since you are finally close and I find I still am unable to attend.  Please let me know, if you can, what goes into your costs to put on such an event.  

Dreaming of being able to afford spinning with you all...someday.

StlHook  - knitter turning a hand to spinning...

For Stlhook and her question re the cost of attending SOAR:

I am not part of Spin-off Magazine, and have nothing to do with the organization of the conference, but here is a partial answer to your inquiry re the costs.  

First, there is a cost for simply renting the space itself.  The Resort makes it's living - and the living of it's employees depends on - providing space for conferences and groups to meet.

Second, there is the cost of the teachers who will be giving classes/seminars.  This is how these individuals make their living - their families depend on them as well.

I can feel your intense disappointment in the body of your post, and I am so sorry - were you perhaps able to apply for a scholarship?  If not this year, then perhaps next year?

Also, even if you are not able to attend the conference by taking classes, you may still want to consider coming out for a day or two during the week to spend time with other spinners, and possibly you will be able connect with someone in your area who you can then learn from or at least you two can share information while you both learn.  

Also, there is the MARKET place, and you can find many excellent resources there!  Places to buy rovings, connections to teachers or other resouces.  There is more to a conference like this than just the classes being offered, so I hope that you will avail yourself of the other opportunities available.

Best Wishes.