Past Retreats and Reviews

June 2026 - Lake Metigoshee, ND

Lynn C

Sarah and Zelda, the incredible leaders of Aluma, are truly gifted songwriters and mentors. They bring decades of experience across multiple genres and generously invest their knowledge, creativity, and wisdom into every songwriter at the retreat. Not only did we leave with amazing songs that we were proud to create, but we were also deeply encouraged, cared for, and ministered to as women and church leaders. Their heart for both songwriting excellence and personal growth creates a unique and transformative experience. I highly recommend this retreat to any songwriter looking to grow creatively, spiritually, and personally.

Rosa C

The Aluma Retreat offered times of prayer, worship and rest that resulted in a wonderful time of communion and songwriting.

Adlith M

Attending this songwriting retreat was such a beautiful and needed experience for me. I went in excited to write and connect with other women who love music, but I left feeling refreshed spiritually, creatively, and personally.

There was such a sweet balance of songwriting, sharing music, worship, Bible study, laughter, fun, and simply enjoying being together. We each shared songs we had recorded or hope to record soon, and it was so inspiring to hear the different styles, stories, and voices represented in the room. It reminded me how much beauty there is in making space for one another’s creativity.

What impacted me most was the spiritual atmosphere. I honestly did not realize how much I needed a reset and a chance to be fully present with God. During one of our prayer times, we shared some deeply personal petitions and took turns praying over one another. Being prayed for so intentionally was incredibly moving—I truly cried my life out in the best way. I left feeling seen, encouraged, and spiritually renewed.

The retreat was relaxing and fun, but it was also deeply meaningful. It gave me fresh inspiration for songwriting, renewed confidence in the stories and songs I carry, and a reminder that creative community can be both safe and powerful. I am so grateful for the women who created and held that space, and for the chance to experience God in such a personal way through music, prayer, and fellowship.

Erica V

This was my first women’s song writing retreat. I had a wonderful time connecting with friends and making new ones. One of my favorite parts about the retreat was sharing songs we have released and written. Sharing the story of the songs brought joy and healing to everyone in the room. It gave us the space to share our story, and that helped me to understand why God allowed certain things in my life. It was a blessing to receive love and feedback from those songs and stories that I shared. I am thankful for this beautiful opportunity as it has helped me to see the next steps that God wants me to take. And I know that I am not alone because I have friends to cheer me on! This retreat was a blessing! Thank you so much Sarah and Zelda for inviting me and taking care of us!

About the Event

Just what we needed

God knew exactly who to bring to us for our June 2026 Retreat in Metigoshe, North Dakota! We had such a sweet time of worship, songwriting, laughter, healing, meaningful conversations and rest. Our daily time in the Word and in prayer was the foundation we stood on as we participated in the rest of the day’s activities.

The background to our retreat was Metigoshie Ministries – a beautiful campus full of trees, flowers and serene nature. The themed bedrooms were cozy and made us feel right at home. One of them was even called the “Harmony Room” and had a giant piano on the wall! They provided meals for us, catering to all our individual food allergy needs and the meals were delicious! (We probably ate too much!) The staff was incredible and we especially loved working with our hostess, Loretta! She went out of her way to make sure we were well taken care of. (She even drove 1.5 hours down to the airport to return a forgotten license to one of the ladies so she wouldn’t miss her flight!)

We began the first night with a song sharing session where each woman was able to share a song they had already released or were hoping to release. This gave us a chance to get to know each other’s writing styles and have a little insight into personalities. It was a very encouraging time.

Throughout the retreat, we had four songwriting sessions. Each session the individuals in the groups would change making sure everyone had a chance to write together. The songs that we created were personal, powerful and Spirit led. We are hoping to get them out to the public ASAP!

The weather was not on our side, however. Our excitement for being outdoors was quenched by rainy skies. We made the best of the much needed rain and had fun putting puzzles together, singing to music and having a spa night! And we got a chance to hang out in the basement as God split the storm, allowing a tornado passed by! Talk about group bonding!

Goodbyes were difficult but we all left feeling rested and ready to get home. God truly was in the middle of all we did and we look forward to what He is going to do at our next retreat. Keep your eyes open for information on our South Dakota Retreat, coming September 24-28, 2026!