I attend a couple of retreats each year. Although space is limited many ladies bring a small folding table and compact iron which they set up next to their sewing space so they aren't hopping up to go to one of the ironing stations. I always bring several projects with me including something I know I can finish quickly; I call it instant gratification, usually it's a table runner size. If there's a technique you aren't sure of a retreat is a good time to work on it, usually someone else attending has experience and can help you. And as someone else mentioned, make up kits before you go. In my experience there's nothing worse than someone using the limited cutting mats for hours at a time. Have fun!