Bonjour Reader!

Today is our LAST DAY of EARLY BIRD PRICING for "Botanica: from Petal to Pendant" -- the lovely art retreat in Perigord France in July 2026. When you book by midnight tonight, you will save 5% on the trip! If you've been on the fence, now is the perfect time to YES to adventure!

We have such a wonderful group of women already coming on this trip, I know you will love all of them as well as Kate Sydney! This is going to be a fabulous group and a way to see one of the most beautiful areas of France in a safe, supportive and creative environment. We will take good care of you. Watch this little video clip below of our interview with Harrison Turner, the founder of Perigord Retreats, where we'll be staying, to learn a bit more about what makes this venue (and its hosts) so special.

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About the Retreat: BOTANICA - From Petal to Pendant

Périgord, France, July 8-17, 2026

Join artist Cathy Nichols and jewelry designer Kate Sydney for a once-in-a-lifetime creative retreat in the storybook landscape of Périgord, France. This unique collaboration invites you to slow down, soak in the magic of the French countryside, and transform your inspiration into lasting works of art—from layered botanical paintings to elegant handcrafted jewelry.

In this immersive retreat, Cathy will guide you through her signature mixed media process to create deeply expressive, layered botanical paintings inspired by the wildflowers, gardens, and gentle rhythms of rural France. Using a joyful combination of acrylics, collage, and mark-making, you’ll explore color theory, intuitive composition, and the beauty of imperfection as you capture your personal sense of place on canvas.

Then, with her years of craftsmanship and love for natural beauty, Kate Sydney will help you bring your artwork to life in a new and unexpected way—by transforming a painting into a stunning, wearable pendant. You'll also learn to design coordinating beaded earrings using semi-precious gems and the art of wire-tying, adding sparkle and movement to your finished jewelry set. Kate's calm, encouraging presence and deep knowledge of jewelry techniques will make even beginners feel confident and inspired.

Whether you're an experienced artist or simply craving a creative escape, this retreat offers a chance to connect deeply—with nature, with your art, and with a community of kindred spirits. Come away with not just a suitcase full of memories, but artwork and jewelry that carry the soul of France home with you.

What's included:

• 10 Days (9 Nights) at Perigord Retreats
• Painting Classes - Mixed Media Botanicals and more with Cathy Nichols during poppy season
• Jewelry-making Classes - with Kate Sydney (many supplies included)
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (including wine) prepared in house by talented French chef Katel
• Excursions to architectural, cultural and natural attractions like Chateau des Milandes (home of Josephine Baker), Rocamadour, Saint Circq LaPopie - and more
• Shopping at Sarlat (authentic walled city) and French brocante (flea market)
• Transport to and from the train at Gourdon
• Access to art studio 24-7
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Celebrating Autumn- A NEW selection of prints

My newest collection of autumn flowers sold out right away, but I have made these new pieces into vivid prints to help you capture the beauty of 'the golden season' all year long. From left to right: We Are Golden, The Pretty One, and Sunday Kind of Love. You can find my newest sunflower, zinnia and dahlia print collection in my shop now.

And 2026 "Big Love" Calendars are now HERE and ready to ship!!!!

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