Write and Learn

Workshops

Retreats

Self-Directed

WORKSHOPS

Lauren is a highly encouraging and knowledgeable teacher. Every time I take one of her classes, I come away with motivation that keeps me going.

Micheline Maylor

Workshops
2021-08-25T18:28:02+00:00

Micheline Maylor

Lauren is a highly encouraging and knowledgeable teacher. Every time I take one of her classes, I come away with motivation that keeps me going.
Lauren's Simply Write workshop got me into a much-needed writing groove. Her style is one of encouragement and affirmation, while consistently nudging you to draw more deeply from your well of experience and to translate it into authentic creative expression.

Liz Kornelsen

Workshops
2022-04-28T17:09:07+00:00

Liz Kornelsen

Lauren's Simply Write workshop got me into a much-needed writing groove. Her style is one of encouragement and affirmation, while consistently nudging you to draw more deeply from your well of experience and to translate it into authentic creative expression.
An excellent workshop with lots of writing opportunity. Great value for money. Thanks, Lauren!

Diane Ferguson

Workshops
2021-08-25T18:29:34+00:00

Diane Ferguson

An excellent workshop with lots of writing opportunity. Great value for money. Thanks, Lauren!
Thank you for a focused workshop that gave me new insight into how I can move forward with a plot that has been bothering me. Your suggestions and writing exercises helped to “jump start” my novel writing process. I feel re-committed to the work I want to do with my story, so I appreciate your insight and skill!

Kim Fahner

Workshops
2021-08-25T18:27:09+00:00

Kim Fahner

Thank you for a focused workshop that gave me new insight into how I can move forward with a plot that has been bothering me. Your suggestions and writing exercises helped to “jump start” my novel writing process. I feel re-committed to the work I want to do with my story, so I appreciate your insight and skill!
Lauren's session was so valuable. Her calm guidance led me to a writing place where I was able to 'find' a scene I didn't even know I was looking for.

Wendy Burton

Workshops
2022-04-28T17:10:30+00:00

Wendy Burton

Lauren's session was so valuable. Her calm guidance led me to a writing place where I was able to 'find' a scene I didn't even know I was looking for.
This workshop has been invaluable to me. I came out with so much more knowledge than I had going in, and I am feeling really inspired to jump into my characters. I thought Lauren was phenomenal! Thank you so much for the wonderful workshop!

Teresa Witkowskyj

Workshops
2021-08-25T21:30:23+00:00

Teresa Witkowskyj

This workshop has been invaluable to me. I came out with so much more knowledge than I had going in, and I am feeling really inspired to jump into my characters. I thought Lauren was phenomenal! Thank you so much for the wonderful workshop!

Lauren’s prompts and insightful guidance helped push me forward, freeing me to write fearlessly and unapologetically through some resistance I’ve been feeling for a long time. Thanks for a great afternoon!

Leanne Fournier

Workshops
2022-04-28T17:07:25+00:00

Leanne Fournier

Lauren’s prompts and insightful guidance helped push me forward, freeing me to write fearlessly and unapologetically through some resistance I’ve been feeling for a long time. Thanks for a great afternoon!
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Workshops

Simply Write: A Monthly Generative Writing Circle

If you, like me, process the world through language, it’s important that you find the time: for your own well-being and to fulfill your call to create. Each month (excluding July, Aug, and Dec), I host two hours of generative writing on the fourth Sunday, offering interesting prompts, focused time, and casual creative camaraderie.

No experience is necessary; all you need is a desire to write plus a pen and notebook (or computer) and a willingness to write with others in a space free of competition and comparison. We will not be sharing our work, but we might chat about process and this oh-so-interesting creative act…

I ask for a donation ($20 minimum suggested, but if that’s not possible for you, sign up through Eventbrite to PWYC rather than the link below). Half goes to a different charity each month. 

 

Grab Your Spot!

Looking for a Writing Teacher? Hire Me!

If your group is looking for a fun, creative and immersive six or three-hour writing workshop (or a series of workshops), I am available to teach in-person and/or over ZOOM on a variety of writing craft and creative process topics. Current offerings include: Creative Revision, Deep Character, Make A Scene!, Narrative Arc Boot Camp, Fictional Reflection & Event, Resuscitating the Writer Within, Writing During Difficult Times,  Make A Poem!, and more. I can also create curriculum geared to your group’s learning desires. Get in touch today for rates and availability!

 

 

Lauren is a highly encouraging and knowledgeable teacher. Every time I take one of her classes, I come away with motivation that keeps me going.

Micheline Maylor

Lauren Carter
2021-08-25T18:28:02+00:00

Micheline Maylor

Lauren is a highly encouraging and knowledgeable teacher. Every time I take one of her classes, I come away with motivation that keeps me going.
An excellent workshop with lots of writing opportunity. Great value for money. Thanks, Lauren!

Diane Ferguson

Lauren Carter
2021-08-25T18:29:34+00:00

Diane Ferguson

An excellent workshop with lots of writing opportunity. Great value for money. Thanks, Lauren!
Thank you for a focused workshop that gave me new insight into how I can move forward with a plot that has been bothering me. Your suggestions and writing exercises helped to “jump start” my novel writing process. I feel re-committed to the work I want to do with my story, so I appreciate your insight and skill!

Kim Fahner

Lauren Carter
2021-08-25T18:27:09+00:00

Kim Fahner

Thank you for a focused workshop that gave me new insight into how I can move forward with a plot that has been bothering me. Your suggestions and writing exercises helped to “jump start” my novel writing process. I feel re-committed to the work I want to do with my story, so I appreciate your insight and skill!
I came to Lauren faltering, even with the finish line in sight. Her keen eye, light touch, and deeply compassionate nature allowed me just the right support to move through the stuck place and finish my draft.  Lauren was undaunted by the challenging material in my story. She helped me see what I did well, and hand-selected lessons so I could improve the weaker parts of my text. My manuscript and I are both better now, thanks to Lauren’s skillful coaching.

Jessica Waite

Lauren Carter
2021-08-25T18:20:36+00:00

Jessica Waite

I came to Lauren faltering, even with the finish line in sight. Her keen eye, light touch, and deeply compassionate nature allowed me just the right support to move through the stuck place and finish my draft.  Lauren was undaunted by the challenging material in my story. She helped me see what I did well, and hand-selected lessons so I could improve the weaker parts of my text. My manuscript and I are both better now, thanks to Lauren’s skillful coaching.
This workshop has been invaluable to me. I came out with so much more knowledge than I had going in, and I am feeling really inspired to jump into my characters. I thought Lauren was phenomenal! Thank you so much for the wonderful workshop!

Teresa Witkowskyj

Lauren Carter
2021-08-25T21:30:23+00:00

Teresa Witkowskyj

This workshop has been invaluable to me. I came out with so much more knowledge than I had going in, and I am feeling really inspired to jump into my characters. I thought Lauren was phenomenal! Thank you so much for the wonderful workshop!
I am so very grateful to you for your editing suggestions and your ongoing encouragement. I didn’t have the confidence to send writing off for publication last year, but your help this year built my confidence, strengthened my writing, and gave me courage to begin submitting my pieces - and now one is being published in an anthology! Thank you for these gifts!

Tabatha Nordby

Lauren Carter
2021-06-01T21:47:47+00:00

Tabatha Nordby

I am so very grateful to you for your editing suggestions and your ongoing encouragement. I didn’t have the confidence to send writing off for publication last year, but your help this year built my confidence, strengthened my writing, and gave me courage to begin submitting my pieces - and now one is being published in an anthology! Thank you for these gifts!

Lauren’s prompts and insightful guidance helped push me forward, freeing me to write fearlessly and unapologetically through some resistance I’ve been feeling for a long time. Thanks for a great afternoon!

Leanne Fournier

Lauren Carter
2022-04-28T17:07:25+00:00

Leanne Fournier

Lauren’s prompts and insightful guidance helped push me forward, freeing me to write fearlessly and unapologetically through some resistance I’ve been feeling for a long time. Thanks for a great afternoon!
Lauren is a personable, astute listener-teacher who gives thought-provoking challenges and exercises.

M. Guymer

Lauren Carter
2019-03-19T19:46:54+00:00

M. Guymer

Lauren is a personable, astute listener-teacher who gives thought-provoking challenges and exercises.
I’m writing regularly on my own stuff now. This is something I’ve been wanting to do for 20+ years, but I’ve always had reasons why I couldn’t keep it up: the year-end is due, I have freelance writing deadlines, I have a 10+ item list of admin tasks; I’m a Mom; I’m busy! Lauren, very patiently, supportively, and non-judgmentally, gave me resources that spoke to my situation, put up a mirror to my “crazies”, and encouraged me to kick them down one by one. It was quite a journey and I’m eternally grateful!

A.G.

Lauren Carter
2018-05-06T15:43:19+00:00

A.G.

I’m writing regularly on my own stuff now. This is something I’ve been wanting to do for 20+ years, but I’ve always had reasons why I couldn’t keep it up: the year-end is due, I have freelance writing deadlines, I have a 10+ item list of admin tasks; I’m a Mom; I’m busy! Lauren, very patiently, supportively, and non-judgmentally, gave me resources that spoke to my situation, put up a mirror to my “crazies”, and encouraged me to kick them down one by one. It was quite a journey and I’m eternally grateful!
I have learned more about writing and about myself as a writer in these three months than I have in years of taking online courses. Lauren’s insight and suggestions are thoughtful and helpful, and having her give direct feedback on my actual words has given me a far deeper understanding of the craft of writing and where my own shortcomings were hiding. I’m coming away from this with a renewed faith in myself and my work, and a bolstered enthusiasm for writing in general!

Laura-Lee Pernsky

Lauren Carter
2022-06-23T19:24:52+00:00

Laura-Lee Pernsky

I have learned more about writing and about myself as a writer in these three months than I have in years of taking online courses. Lauren’s insight and suggestions are thoughtful and helpful, and having her give direct feedback on my actual words has given me a far deeper understanding of the craft of writing and where my own shortcomings were hiding. I’m coming away from this with a renewed faith in myself and my work, and a bolstered enthusiasm for writing in general!
[This workshop was] an inspirational day that helped me get in touch with my character’s motivations and to move forward with confidence.

Susanne McLarty

Lauren Carter
2022-04-28T16:52:28+00:00

Susanne McLarty

[This workshop was] an inspirational day that helped me get in touch with my character’s motivations and to move forward with confidence.
woman standing alone overlooking a forest landscape
Lauren's blue pencil sessions have helped me to feel more confident and to progress as a writer. Her keen eye for detail and helpful insights have enabled me to bring more nuance and expression to my poetry. I have appreciated having both written notes and a ZOOM call for discussion. Lauren has a supportive, encouraging approach, and it is a joy to work with her.

Kerry Galenzoski

Lauren Carter
2021-08-25T22:24:13+00:00

Kerry Galenzoski

woman standing alone overlooking a forest landscape
Lauren's blue pencil sessions have helped me to feel more confident and to progress as a writer. Her keen eye for detail and helpful insights have enabled me to bring more nuance and expression to my poetry. I have appreciated having both written notes and a ZOOM call for discussion. Lauren has a supportive, encouraging approach, and it is a joy to work with her.
Lauren's session was so valuable. Her calm guidance led me to a writing place where I was able to 'find' a scene I didn't even know I was looking for.

Wendy Burton

Lauren Carter
2022-04-28T17:10:30+00:00

Wendy Burton

Lauren's session was so valuable. Her calm guidance led me to a writing place where I was able to 'find' a scene I didn't even know I was looking for.
Before I did my blue pencil critique session with Lauren I wasn’t sure if I’d ever finish my novel. My revisions weren’t going well and I had encountered several structural problems I didn’t know how to resolve. After meeting with Lauren I feel excited about it again. She was incredibly insightful and helped me build confidence in my creative process. She provided me with the tools, knowledge and resources I need to restructure my novel. Lauren also helped me create a clear plan I can follow to accomplish my goals without feeling so overwhelmed.

E. B. Page

Lauren Carter
2019-03-19T19:50:27+00:00

E. B. Page

Before I did my blue pencil critique session with Lauren I wasn’t sure if I’d ever finish my novel. My revisions weren’t going well and I had encountered several structural problems I didn’t know how to resolve. After meeting with Lauren I feel excited about it again. She was incredibly insightful and helped me build confidence in my creative process. She provided me with the tools, knowledge and resources I need to restructure my novel. Lauren also helped me create a clear plan I can follow to accomplish my goals without feeling so overwhelmed.
Lauren is a wonderful coach! She was always thoughtful, supportive, insightful and ready with just the right readings and resources. These days, the fact that I’ve committed to keeping my writing time [when faced with childcare challenges], rather than just throwing up my hands and losing steam (as has happened in the past) says a lot about how far I’ve come in the two months I’ve been with her! I really *feel* like a writer who is actively engaged in her practice! I am so excited about what is to come, and I’m so grateful for all she’s done to help me along the way!

Tara Borin

Lauren Carter
2018-05-06T15:42:43+00:00

Tara Borin

Lauren is a wonderful coach! She was always thoughtful, supportive, insightful and ready with just the right readings and resources. These days, the fact that I’ve committed to keeping my writing time [when faced with childcare challenges], rather than just throwing up my hands and losing steam (as has happened in the past) says a lot about how far I’ve come in the two months I’ve been with her! I really *feel* like a writer who is actively engaged in her practice! I am so excited about what is to come, and I’m so grateful for all she’s done to help me along the way!
I had a couple of hard drive's worth of unfinished novels before I started Lauren’s mentorship program. I was about to give up on story-telling when Lauren analyzed what I was doing on a scene-by-scene basis. She found patterns in my work, and provided concrete direction. She also helped me to find a sense of calm in my practice. Now it’s like my brain is re-wired, and I am well on my way to a satisfying finished product. This mentorship program is like hopping on the bullet train after years meandering on a rusty tricycle!

Joanne Loney

Lauren Carter
2022-04-27T15:46:14+00:00

Joanne Loney

I had a couple of hard drive's worth of unfinished novels before I started Lauren’s mentorship program. I was about to give up on story-telling when Lauren analyzed what I was doing on a scene-by-scene basis. She found patterns in my work, and provided concrete direction. She also helped me to find a sense of calm in my practice. Now it’s like my brain is re-wired, and I am well on my way to a satisfying finished product. This mentorship program is like hopping on the bullet train after years meandering on a rusty tricycle!
I was stuck, and just could not make myself get to my desk and start working again even though I had projects waiting. Lauren's course really kick-started me. I found the connection with the other participants and the conversations triggered by the course material to be enormously helpful and inspiring. I am back at my desk, committed to a regular writing practice again. Thanks, Lauren, this course was exactly what I needed to get working again.

Nancy Hall

Lauren Carter
2019-03-15T20:46:42+00:00

Nancy Hall

I was stuck, and just could not make myself get to my desk and start working again even though I had projects waiting. Lauren's course really kick-started me. I found the connection with the other participants and the conversations triggered by the course material to be enormously helpful and inspiring. I am back at my desk, committed to a regular writing practice again. Thanks, Lauren, this course was exactly what I needed to get working again.
I’m feeling really great about the writing; thank you so much for helping me get my practice back!

E.C.

Lauren Carter
2018-05-06T15:43:50+00:00

E.C.

I’m feeling really great about the writing; thank you so much for helping me get my practice back!
Lauren's Simply Write workshop got me into a much-needed writing groove. Her style is one of encouragement and affirmation, while consistently nudging you to draw more deeply from your well of experience and to translate it into authentic creative expression.

Liz Kornelsen

Lauren Carter
2022-04-28T17:09:07+00:00

Liz Kornelsen

Lauren's Simply Write workshop got me into a much-needed writing groove. Her style is one of encouragement and affirmation, while consistently nudging you to draw more deeply from your well of experience and to translate it into authentic creative expression.
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Lauren Carter

RETREATS

 

 

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Wild Writing in the Boreal

Wild Writing in the Boreal is an annual writing retreat for beginning and experienced writers, which I co-run with writer Donna Besel. It brings together women for a warm and easy-going weekend of writing, sharing stories, and connecting in the gorgeous environment of Falcon Trails Resort in Manitoba’s Whiteshell Provincial Park. Our next retreat is April 28-30, 2023.

Delicious food, hot-tubs, wood-burning stoves, starry nights, beautiful nature, a raffle draw, and our legendary Saturday night sing-a-long (following the open mic reading) and, of course, lots of writing, create a weekend to remember!

Visit our Wild Writing in the Boreal page for more details, including pictures and testimonials and check out last year’s itinerary and details about Falcon Trails at the resort’s website.

Praise from past participants

Wild Writing in the Boreal blew my expectations through the roof! The entire weekend was so full of love, honesty, and beautiful writing. Both Lauren and Donna are amazing, talented women that we are all lucky to be learning from. Never have I felt so grounded at a retreat, and I am walking away feeling knowledgable and motivated. – Kiera Anderson

Before the retreat, I always thought that writers were “other” people. Being a writer was something I didn’t think was attainable for someone like me. Listening to other stories that people wrote and sharing helped me realize that I can be a writer. – Marni Fisher

 

SELF-DIRECTED

 

 

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Nine Simple Steps To A Solid Writing Practice! 

This self-directed video course offers 10 lessons (9, plus a bonus) to help you begin and nurture a writing practice. Whether you’re answering a life-long call to write or returning to your creative work, this course will help you:

  • dedicate a space for creative work
  • make time to write
  • address and overcome common blocks 
  • reconnect with the desire you feel to write
  • feel like a writer again or for the first time
  • choose a meaningful project
  • purposefully look at your written draft (without cringing or running away)

I've recently lowered the cost of this course, to help as many people as I can, so you can purchase it now for just $39.99! 

Yes, I want to build my writing practice!
Praise for Nine Simple Steps

"This course, visually beautiful and wise, has helped me to re-connect with my writing. I’m back at it again. Next time I stray, I know I’ll have this course in my back pocket to help me return.” – Angie Gallop

"I love your writing course! I started it way back, and have kept going back to it...it is very forgiving that way. It has gotten me to the point where from not writing at all, except for my editorial for the paper once every two months, i have a spot to write, and sit down each morning and write for an hour! I am working on two different projects! THANK YOU for helping me find my creative side again, after so many years! It has also encouraged me to move away from arts admin and into editing and writing for a living. So much thanks to you!" - Anna Proctor

"Lauren's online class was precisely the tonic I needed to re-ignite my writing practice. I listened to these nine sessions in my car on the way to work and looked forward every morning to the encouragement and counsel she provided. Through personal stories, anecdotes, quotes and practical tips, Lauren's coaching inspired me to identify my writing goals and commit to them. I recommend this course to anyone who needs an extra nudge to start new works or to keep going with existing projects." - Cheryl Sadowski

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