Welcome to the Author Activation Weekend.
From April 24–26, 2026, join me, Mellissa Thomas, an eight-time self-published author, author guide, and The Procrastination Bully™,
for a luxurious and healing writing experience in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where you'll
finally write the book you’ve been carrying inside.
Over three powerful days, you’ll go from idea to completed rough draft with real-time support,
expert guidance, and a sisterhood of women who understand the power of rewriting their story.
Let's Be Honest, Beautiful...
You’ve been carrying your story for years.
The heartbreak, the comeback, the moments that nearly broke you — and the ones that made you unbreakable.
You’ve been told you should write a book. You know it’s time.
But every time you sit down to start, life interrupts.
If that sounds familiar, exhale. You’re in the right place.
You’ve been carrying your story for years.
The heartbreak, the comeback, the moments that nearly broke you — and the ones that made you unbreakable.
You’ve been told you should write a book. You know it’s time.
But every time you sit down to start, life interrupts.
Your to-do list wins.
The inner critic gets loud.
And that dream of writing your story—the one that could change your life and someone else’s—slides back into “someday.”
If that sounds familiar, exhale. You’re in the right place.
Because what you need isn’t another writing course or motivational pep talk...
You need a space where your story feels safe to come out…
and a proven process that gets it done.
Every year you wait, your story gets harder to tell.
This book isn’t just about telling your story — it’s about healing through it.
And the longer you wait, the heavier it gets to carry.
Each unwritten page whispers: “You’re still not ready.”
Each missed opportunity says: “Your story doesn’t matter.”
But that’s a lie.
Because here’s the truth:
Your story is your medicine.
Your book is your breakthrough.
And once you start writing, really writing, you’ll find freedom you didn’t even know you were missing.
Every Year You Wait, Your Story Gets Harder to Tell.
This book isn’t just about telling your story — it’s about healing through it.
And the longer you wait, the heavier it gets to carry.
Because here’s the truth:
Your story is your medicine.
Your book is your breakthrough.
And once you start writing, really writing, you’ll find freedom you didn’t even know you were missing.
What You'll Experience
A Framework to Help You Finish
A simple, soul-centered system that takes you from foggy idea to clear outline to completed first draft… all in one weekend. No fluff. No overwhelm. Just clarity, flow, and results.
Healing Through Writing Workshops
Break free from emotional blocks, perfectionism, and procrastination. Every exercise is designed to help you release the pain that’s been holding your voice hostage so you can write with truth and power.
Coaching from 70+ Combined Years of Experience
You’ll learn directly from published authors, editors, and writing mentors who’ve walked the same path. You’re not just learning how to write. You’re being guided by women who get it.
Luxury & Peace in the Smoky Mountains
Gatlinburg’s tranquil beauty is your writing sanctuary. Cozy cabins, crisp mountain air, and breathtaking views create the peace your busy and burdened soul has been craving.
A Sisterhood That Gets It
This isn’t just an event — it’s a movement. You’ll leave with new friends, new courage, and a new identity: Author.
The Author Activation Promise
In this writing intensive, you won’t just talk about writing your book.
You’ll actually write it.
Because healing happens when you stop rehearsing your pain and start rewriting your story.
Author Activation Weekend Sponsors
What You Invest Today
Speakers
Mellissa Thomas
8-time author, Author Guide &
The Procrastination BullyTM
Aiyana Mathews
Founder, Gardner-Mathews Global Management
Brandon B. Burns
Author, Coach & Speaker
Founder, Everyday Means Everyday Brand
Stephanie Jessica holley
Author, Coach & Speaker
Founder, Everybody Can't Go Movement
Candace Mackey
Coach & Speaker
Founder, Strong Futures, LLC
Dana M. Bell
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
FAQ
What exactly does Author Activation Weekend mean?
The Author Activation Weekend is a three-day writing intensive for women who've navigated a trauma or transition looking to reclaim their voice by creating (and finishing) their first book.
What are we doing during the weekend?
We're doing three things:
1) Enjoying a safe, luxurious space to experience peace, community, focus, and (actual) writing to finish your book
2) Walking through the easy step-by-step process of creating your rough draft using YOUR voice
3) Connecting with experienced authors who will share how to make your book successful once your draft is done
Is my flight cost included in the ticket price?
No, your flight cost isn't included. But luxury accommodations and fresh, healthy meals and snacks are.
*Is ground transportation included?
Yes, with some specifications. Ground transportation to and from Knoxville Airport will be available for flights arriving by 7pm on Wednesday, and 11am and 6pm on Thursday. For all other flight arrival times, your options are Uber, Lyft, or local taxi to the venue, which is approximately an hour from the airport. Once at the venue, all local ground transportation is covered for the weekend. For airport departures on Sunday, ground transportation will start making runs to airport at 5pm. For any departures before that time, please utilize the aforementioned options.
Are dietary needs considered?
Yes. Meals will be made with fresh, clean, and whole foods daily. Vegan options will be available, and we advise attendees with nut-based snacks to be mindful of others who may have nut allergies. This Author Activation Weekend is intended to both clear and sharpen your mind so that you can produce your best work and have the greatest impact with the book you create while you're here with us.
What if I get stuck during the writing process?
You'll have direct access to several authors, myself included, to ask for clarification. Additionally, you'll be getting prep work emails leading up to the author weekend that will help simplify the process as much as possible before you arrive onsite.
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