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Retreat or a Conference

2/10/2014

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As you plan your event at Rainbow Lodge it is always wise to keep the end in mind. It also helps to be very aware of the type of event you are planning. One thing that might help is understanding whether you are holding a retreat or a conference. There is a difference!

 This article from Ministry Serving Ministry might be helpful.


http://ministryservingministry.com/2013/12/12/retreat-or-conference-that-is-the-question/#.UrjcqPV3uUl



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Theme Ideas for a Men's Retreat

12/22/2013

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Sometimes you just need a few good suggestions to spark a new idea. If you're leading a men's retreat for your church you might find these ideas for Manly Men's Retreat themes a source of inspiration. Thanks Christian Camp Pro.

By the way, we love men's retreats at the Lodge. Hoorah!

http://christiancamppro.com/40-manly-mens-retreat-themes/ 











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One Night or Two?

11/15/2013

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Taking a break from the routine stresses and distractions of life is refreshing – and one of the reasons retreats are so helpful. As you plan your retreat keep in mind that most people take at least 24 hours to unwind from the stress and activity of normal life. For many it takes at least that long to settle in to a comfortable relational place where connections and sharing might be deeper. If you plan only an overnight retreat you will likely miss an opportunity for participants to fully unwind and start to truly relax. (Of course it helps if you have a peaceful setting like that at Rainbow Lodge!).

It's difficult to build a sense of community on a one night outing. Time is needed playing, working, eating and studying together. Group dynamics really begin to develop after the second full day.

If you want a truly memorable retreat plan for at least 3 days and 2 nights as a minimum. It will make a difference.


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How Much To Charge for a Retreat

10/19/2013

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Most churches seek to cover the costs of their retreats completely through participant fees, while realistically planning to assist those in their community who may not be able to afford to participate (with budgeted subsidies and scholarships). Remember that there are costs to your retreat that are above and beyond what the Lodge charges.

What are your costs? Some things to consider:
  • What is the cost charged by Rainbow Lodge per person? (found on your guest agreement). Multiply this number by the total number expected to attend- make sure to include all persons whether they are paying or not - e.g., speakers and presenters.
  • What are the speakers travel fees and honorarium?
  • How much are your supplies (decorations, treats, copies, etc.) going to cost?
  • Will you have promotional expenses?
  • How big is your postage bill for the retreat?
  • Any miscellaneous expenses?
Add all of the above to get your total estimated cost. Divide by your estimated number of guests to get a realistic cost per person.

 

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Ten Thoughts on Planning a Retreat

10/16/2013

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Planning a retreat, whether it is a single day, a full  weekend, or a week-long event, can be complicated. Here are some ideas to think about as you  plan your retreat experience.
  1. Be clear of the purpose of your  retreat. Be able to state  it in one short sentence.
  2. Plan Ahead. People are very busy. Allow your  participants time to get the dates on their calendars. Depending on the time of year, you should probably allow a minimum of 4 months lead time for even a one day retreat. If you are holding  a week long event, a 10 to 12 month lead time is realistic.
  3. Arrange for any presenters or speakers well in advance. 
  4. Arrange for the location of your  retreat at least a year out. Rainbow Lodge can book up to 3 years in advance!
  5. Establish a realistic budget. Budgets should include (at the least): Facilities and meal costs, program costs (including  presenter honorariums or fees, travel expenses, extra lodging, printing, etc.). Don’t forget other items such as insurance, promotion and miscellaneous  items. It is always good to  add 5-10% for a cushion.
  6. Analyze your program and determine obstacles you may need to overcome to have a successful retreat. Some things to consider calendar might be calendar conflicts, weather, and ways of overcoming any reticence on the part of potential  attendees.
  7. Be aware of the potential medical needs of your attendees. It might be good to have a designated first aid person on site. 
  8. Know of the special needs of any of your attendees and communicate with the facility what those are. Pay special attention to dietary  needs and food
    allergies.
  9. Tour the facility prior to your arrival for your retreat (or better, before booking). Nothing is better than seeing the site in person to determine how to best use the  site for your program.  
  10. Communicate early and often with  the staff at the retreat center so that all are working “on the same page”  toward the success of your event.
  11. Bonus thought:  Make sure you are able to enjoy the retreat yourself! The better the planning, the  better the chance of that happening. 
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Surprise Your Presenters

10/16/2013

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A fruit basket or snack assortment in the room of your guest speaker or major presenter is a great way of welcoming them. Flower arrangements or balloons are often fun too. You might even arrange for a store to deliver in advance - just make sure to check with the Lodge in advance to make sure someone will be available to accept the delivery.
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    Ideas

    We keep our eyes open for helpful insights and resources for planning or enhancing retreats.

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Brandon Gooch
Executive Director
46820 SE Mt Si Road
North Bend, WA 98045
(425) 888-4181
director@rainbowlodge.org
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  • Home
  • Facilities & Services
  • About Us
    • Location
    • Photo Gallery
    • Staff
    • Board of Directors
    • History
  • Booking a Retreat
    • Inquiry / Reservations
    • Day Use Events
  • Forms
    • Final Guest Information Form
    • Retreat Feedback Form
    • Policies and Information
    • Dietary Policies
    • Room Layout
  • Jobs
  • Local Things to Do
  • Support Rainbow Lodge