A 50% deposit is required to reserve your space in a retreat. It is NON-REFUNDABLE but you can apply your fees toward a future retreat, if you cancel before 90 days prior to your retreat.

The remaining balance is due no later than 90 days prior the retreat’s start date – we will send you a reminder email ahead of that deadline.

In the event that a retreat does not meet the minimum number of participants, you will receive a minimum of 60 days notification that the retreat is canceled and a full refund will be sent.

In the extremely unlikely event that we have to cancel less than 60 days out for circumstances outside our control, a full refund will be sent.

Yes! Please read all our policies here BEFORE applying to a retreat as it discusses policies for COVID, transporation, and more.

Each retreat is limited to 6-20 artists.

Each retreat is designed by the leader so there will be differences in curriculum and timing. To give you a general sense, they will generally follow this flow.

Getting to The Smiley

The Smiley Manse is located at 485 Cherry Hill in Springfield, Vermont. A car is the most convenient way to get around once you arrive, but there are several great options for getting here from wherever you're starting.

By Train Amtrak's Vermonter runs daily service from New York Penn Station, with stops in Springfield, VT. It's a scenic, relaxed ride — no traffic, no stress. Check schedules at amtrak.com and plan to be picked up or rent a car at the station.

From New York Airports (JFK, LGA, EWR) Fly into any NYC-area airport, then catch the Vermonter north. You can also take Dartmouth Coach from New York City to Lebanon, NH, then arrange a short drive south to Springfield. Or rent a car and drive approximately 4.5 to 5 hours via I-91 North.

From Boston Logan Airport is a solid gateway. From Boston, Springfield is about a 2-hour drive via I-93 and I-91. You can also take Dartmouth Coach from Boston's South Station or Logan Airport to Lebanon, NH, then arrange a short drive south to Springfield.

Regional Airports Two smaller airports offer a closer landing:

• Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), Manchester, NH — roughly 1.5 hours from Springfield

• Bradley International Airport (BDL), Hartford/Windsor Locks, CT — approximately 1 hour south on I-91

Both offer convenient alternatives to the busier Boston and New York hubs, especially if you can find a direct flight.

If you are joining us in the summer, we recommend bringing a light jacket and sunscreen. In the fall, you will definitely want a sweater or jacket. We will also provide bug spray–however, if you have a special spray you would like to bring for sensitive skin, etc., please do. 

As for supplies, we will share any supplies you’ll need to purchase and bring with you in your welcome email.

Depending on which retreat you are attending, some supplies are included. However, you’re welcome to bring anything that you would like to have (or share).

We have a list of local accommodations to fit every budget and can provide discount codes for select options – email us once you’ve signed up for a retreat for that info.

We also recommend checking AirBnB for Springfield, VT if you prefer a home setting. 

We will not review portfolios at the retreat. If you are interested in that, you can book time with Jennifer here.

It depends on retreat instructor’s curriculum – please check the daily schedule of the retreat you’re interested in for more information. However, in most cases the retreats are focused on art making.

Our retreats are meant to be a time to come together with your leader, your host, and other artists. A time to enjoy/improve your skills, learn from others, and share yourself and your work. As such, they are not part of the process for finding or signing new artists.