Meet the Hosts

Courtney

FOUNDER & HOST · @READ_BETWEENWINES

I’m Courtney! I am from North Carolina. I am a woman of faith, a wife, a mom of three, and a lifelong lover of books. I am also a healthcare professional. Between work, family, and the wonderfully busy life that comes with being a sports mom, I’ve learned to embrace every season of life. One of my favorite ways to recharge is getting lost in a good book whenever I can. I love all genres, but you’ll catch me mostly reading fantasy, romance, and the occasional thriller.

I’m naturally Type A—but don’t let that fool you! I’m also silly, fun-loving, outgoing, and always ready to make you laugh. I believe life is too short to take yourself too seriously, and I’m a firm believer that a little humor can go a long way.

I have always had a passion for event planning and hosting and pride myself on my charismatic ability to make all feel welcome. With that and my obsession with books, I am so excited to watch this vision of ours come to life!

Outside of books, some of my favorite things are traveling, wine, photography, crafting, yoga, and watching my kids from the sidelines! Life may be busy, but I believe there’s always room for a good story, a good laugh, and the people who make it all worthwhile.

Laurie

CO-HOST & BOOKISH SOCIAL MEDIA CREATOR · @THERIPPEDLIBRARIAN

I’m Laurie! I am from South Louisiana. Reading has always been my escape. I love getting lost in a book and I am passionate about sharing books I love! I read all genres, always love discovering new books and have a TBR longer than my lifespan.

I do have a full time job but I squeeze in reading any time I can! Whether it’s a few chapters of a book before bed or an audiobook while I’m driving or doing chores, I will always find a way!

When I’m not reading or working, you can find me coaching or attending classes at my local CrossFit gym. I love it for the exercise and the socializing. I can squeeze in a workout and a visit with my friends all at the same time.

I also love to travel. Want to go on a trip? Let me know! If I can afford it and get the time off of work, I’m in! Book retreats are recently my new favorite!

I also love spending time with my family and friends. Whether it’s attending my nephew’s football games, picking up my niece from school or having dinner with friends, those are my favorite parts of the day! Life is too short not to do the things we love!

Dominique

CO-HOST & BOOKISH SOCIAL MEDIA CREATOR · @STORIESANDSPELLS

I’m Dominique! I am a lifelong book lover who grew up on the East Coast and now calls Seattle home. I’ve worked in events for years, but outside of work, reading is definitely where you’ll find me spending most of my time.

I’m a romance and fantasy girl at heart, with a particular love for romantasy, dark romance, sports romance, and cowboy romances. If a book has enemies to lovers in it, I’m already obsessed. I’m an avid ARC reader, collector of special editions, and you’ll almost always find me with headphones on for audiobooks.

Outside of reading, I love to travel, hike and consider myself a mediocre iced coffee connoisseur. I’m a Scorpio through and through, and have a love for crystals and tarot.

Some favorite reads so far this year: Meet Cute Magic by Morgan Elizabeth, The Incendiary by LJ Claren, Tempting Venom by Rina Kent, West of Forever by Corinne Michaels, and Roulette Rising by Brandy Hynes.

What Our Retreat Guests Say

  • ★★★★★ Jill Wiley

    “A few weeks ago I went on a book retreat with Courtney and I’m still not over it. The house was gorgeous, with giant windows and amazing views, so I could curl up inside with my book and still soak in the scenery. Our group outing was fabulous, and the rest of the time was exactly what a reader dreams of: unhurried hours to read, chat, and really get to know each other. I showed up excited about the books and left with a whole new group of friends. Everything was so thoughtfully planned that all I had to do was show up and enjoy it. If you’ve been thinking about joining the next one, this is your sign. Book it. You won’t regret it.”

    @letsgetlitx2

  • ★★★★★ Blair Eacret

    “I went to Courtney’s last book retreat & this retreat was an absolute 10/10, no notes. Cozy reading vibes, gorgeous scenery, nonstop book talk, lots of laughs, & the best people. Reading two thrillers together made it even better because obviously we had theories and emotional damage that had to be discussed. I came for the books & to meet some book besties, and left with memories & an even longer TBR. I would go on a retreat hosted by Courtney again, no questions asked.”

    @blair.gets.lit

  • ★★★★★ Hayley Helms

    “I had such an amazing time at the last book retreat! I felt welcomed as soon as I got there, and felt completely at ease. It was the perfect little getaway filled with books, laughter, new friendships, and so many fun memories. One of my favorite moments was getting to see a momma bear with her two babies—something I’ll never forget! I left feeling refreshed, happy, and grateful for the experience. Already looking forward to the next retreat!”

    @hayleykelly02

  • ★★★★★ Maggie Whitley

    “I had the most wonderful time at my last reading retreat! Courtney was an amazing host and made everyone feel so welcome and comfortable! The retreat was the perfect mix of relaxing, reading, and connecting with other book lovers. I left feeling refreshed, inspired and looking forward to the next one! Highly recommend!”

    @maggs_whitley

  • ★★★★★ Hillary Lambert

    “Top notch retreat from start to finish. The hostesses were so wonderful with communications and making sure all questions were answered. A heart warm welcoming, helped with luggage. Stunning location, amazing meals with lots of options both food & drinks. Awesome activities but no feeling of you must participate. Was so relaxing and also learned so much more about the book world. Would absolutely do another retreat.”

    @hillarylambert