I bought the cutting mat/iron board combo and never use it. Most places for retreats will have ironing boards and irons, and there is never room for everyone to have their own cutting board set up, so those items are shared. Check and see what others are brining or what the retreat has to offer. I find its always nice to bring the little things that can be shared for those who forget them, ie. needles, thread, seam rippers, .