about us

I’ve been obsessed with fiber all my life, from dressing my Barbies to spinning yarn. For several years I worked at Glamour magazine in NYC, where I learned the ins and outs of setting up and leading photo shoots around the world. I then spent 12 years as a professional quilter and fiber artist in California. I taught quilting all around the country, in small guild groups and at national events, on a stage in front of 400.  I learned how to spin yarn, and fell in love with all things knitty.

I love going on fiber retreats, and I told my husband that if I were to have an event business, I would run it as if I were the guest.  That means that I cap retreat attendance at about 25 people, so that everyone gets time to know the other attendees; this also allows each guest time with the instructor, either to ask questions about the project, or to get to know them on a more personal level.  It makes my retreats a bit more expensive, but my guests tell me it’s worth the extra, in return for a richer, deeper experience.

I’m committed to communicating with my guests, which means the guests receive several informative emails prior to departure, with tips from what to consider packing, to where we’re considering eating on any given night!  Of course, you’ll receive information from the instructor, regarding yarn and notions to bring.  A month prior to departure, the instructor and I co-host an online meeting with the guests where we address any questions that pop up. 

You will receive both an emailed and a printed copy of our retreat schedule, so that you know where we are going each day, and what we have planned.  And for those going on a cruise, or an overseas tour, there are handbooks sent out, with site specific information; again, this is the type of communication I would appreciate receiving, if I were the guest!

I love to travel, and I can’t wait to meet new friends who want to come with me and chat all day about knitting!  If you are coming to a Wild Onion Productions retreat by yourself, I promise that you will never feel like the odd man out.  I hate that feeling, myself, so I make sure that we all get to meet and greet each other on opening night, with a welcome cocktail (or mocktail!) party, and dinner, followed by a casual group knit-together.  I keep my eye out, to make sure that everyone is happy and comfortable; I have considerable customer service experience, and I put it to good use so no one ever feels left out.

Ready to have a blast?  I look forward to knitting with you on one of the many Wild Onion Productions events coming up!

If you are  a teacher/designer wanting to learn more about our unique offerings, and how we can organize a retreat for you, please contact Susan at wildonionproductions@gmail.com