I think you should try one and see how you like it. I have found most quilters friendly and welcoming if they know you are attending alone. If if you find a few that are snooty....hey, their loss! Keep meeting people. After all, you all have quilting in common and that's a great start! Maybe sign up for the shorter of the two retreats. I bet you'll love it! Let us know if you decide to go and how it went!