gee, I must be the odd-girl-out again! I go to two retreats every year (and have since 98 or so) and rarely encounter any of those problems! I love all the women who attend, I always bring a sweater 'cuz I know I am usually cold. However, one year was very hot, someone said "take off your shirt" and I did==sewed in my sports bra! 8^)
At one retreat, rules are set for certain behaviors (such as no eating in sewing room) and are respected by us participants.
Laurie