I had a quilt retreat at our 2nd home a couple of years ago. We sewed, giggled, ate, walked, oohed and awwed at each others projects, took a couple of road trips of course to quiltshops. It was very informal. There were 6 of us from 35 to 69. It was relaxing and we all accomplished a lot. If you get invited to a retreat..go. It won't matter if it is small or large, my guess is you will enjoy it. It is just like what my uncle called a "hen party".