Spring 2026 Recap
Welcome to Author Activation Weekend.
Join 10-time self-published author, author guide, and The Procrastination Bully™ Mellissa Thomas for a luxurious and healing writing experience 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 community of overcomers who understand the power of rewriting their story.
Event
Schedule
The Fall 2026 event schedule will be posted here soon. Join our list and be the first to get updates on the schedule, speakers, and venue!
Stay in the know.
Fall 2026 Venue: Orlando, Florida
What Others Are Saying
This weekend has...truly been transformative. I started my next book and actually got my publisher here at the event. That book will be coming to you guys soon. [It] literally came from the pre-work that Mell designed, [which] took a lot of the guesswork out of [starting a book].
Was the retreat successful in doing what she says it would be able to do, which is having that rough draft? Yes. Was it successful in [helping me make] connections? Yes. Was it successful as far as me feeling confident enough to go out into the world and share this product that I created? Yes. But what I didn't expect is...I ended up learning a lot about myself.
I attended virtually, and Mellissa answered all my questions, even when I hit a roadblock at the start of the writing process and had to go back to the Foundation step. She unlocked the process for me, and I finished half of my book by the next day. And though I wasn't in the room, the environment was so warm and supportive that I felt like I was.
What You'll Experience
A Framework to Help You Finish
We show you a simple, repeatable system that takes you from foggy idea (or no idea) to clear outline to completed first draft in one weekend. No fluff. No overwhelm. Just clarity, flow, and results.
Healing Through Writing Workshops
Break free from emotional blocks, perfectionism, and procrastination. Experience powerful sessions 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 people who've done the work.
A Community That Gets It
This isn’t just an event, it’s a movement. You’ll leave with a new family, new courage, and a new identity: Author.
The Author Activation Promise
You’ll walk away with three lifetime assets no one can take from you:
- A recurring income producing asset (the book)
- The skill of publishing a book (another potential income stream)
- Emotional intelligence (understanding yourself and others, revisiting your past with clarity and grace, and communicating effectively)
Because healing happens when you stop rehearsing your pain and start rewriting your story with clarity.
Author Activation Weekend
Sponsors & Partners
What You Invest Today
Our Speakers
Mellissa Thomas
10-time Self-Published author, Author Guide & The Procrastination BullyTM
Aiyana Mathews
Founder, Gardner-Mathews Global Management
Linette Davis
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
& Author
Stephanie Jessica holley
Author, Coach & Speaker
Founder, Everybody Can't Go Movement
Candace Mackey
Readiness Coach & Speaker
Founder, Strong Futures, LLC
FAQ
What exactly is the Author Activation Weekend?
The Author Activation Weekend is a three-day writing intensive for aspiring authors who've navigated a trauma or transition looking to heal and reclaim their voice by creating their first book. When we wrap up on Sunday, you'll be going home with a finished rough draft and a clear roadmap of next steps to publish your book.
What are we doing during the weekend?
We're doing three things:
1) Walking through the easy, repeatable step-by-step process of creating your rough draft using YOUR voice
2) Connecting with experienced authors who will share how to make your book successful once your draft is done
3) Enjoying a safe, luxurious space to experience healing, community, focus, and (actually) writing your book
What am I getting in exchange for this investment?
You're paying for more than just a weekend. You're investing in a finished asset. Most people spend months (or years) starting and abandoning a book. In one weekend, you'll leave with a completed rough draft: a book you can sell, use to land speaking gigs, or use to build a coaching offer for years to come. A single $17, $27, or $47 book sale doesn't pay this back, but the credibility, speaking fees, coaching clients, and other limitless opportunities that open up once you're an author does. This weekend is the fastest, most direct path to that asset becoming real.
Is my flight cost included in the ticket price?
No, your flight cost isn't included. But luxury accommodations, ground transportation*, and fresh, healthy meals and snacks are included.
*Is ground transportation included?
Yes, VIP attendees will have ground transportation provided, with some specifications. Ground transportation to and from the airport will be available for flights arriving from 5pm on Wednesday. For all other flight arrival times, your options are Uber, Lyft, or local taxi to the venue. 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 the airport at 5pm. For any departures before that time, please utilize the aforementioned options.
Are dietary needs considered?
Yes. Meals are prepared with fresh, clean, and whole foods daily. Vegan options are 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 author coaches--your #AuthorBesties. Ask us anything! 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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