Gatherings
A Home for Stories
For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved gathering people around a table, under one roof, and creating spaces where meaningful conversations can unfold. After a lifetime of moving between countries, I came to understand that home is less about where we are and more about how we make people feel. That belief is at the heart of Trulli Bouganville, my home in Monopoli, Puglia.
Nestled among olive trees and just a short drive from the Adriatic coast, Trulli Bouganville is more than a place to stay—it’s a place to slow down, reflect, create and connect. It is here that I host intimate gatherings for writers and anyone seeking the time and space to reconnect with their story, themselves, and one another.
Currently, I offer work-in-progress memoir gatherings each year in September and May, and I also welcome collaborations with those looking for a beautiful, nurturing setting to host their own gatherings. My hope is that everyone who walks through the gates leaves carrying a little more clarity, a little more confidence, and perhaps even a deeper sense of home within themselves.
memoir gathering in puglia
Come home to your story
Some places invite us to slow down.
Others invite us to listen.
Nestled among centuries-old olive trees in the rolling hills of Monopoli, Puglia, Trulli Bouganville is both my home and a place of belonging. After spending a lifetime moving between countries, I wanted to create a space where people could pause, reconnect with themselves, and give their stories the time and attention they deserve.
It is here that I welcome writers from around the world for intimate gatherings that combine dedicated writing time, expert guidance, beautiful surroundings and genuine Italian hospitality.
Whether you’re beginning your memoir, deep into a work in progress, or preparing your manuscript for publication, these gatherings offer the space, encouragement and professional support to help you move your writing forward.
Together we create an environment where you can write with confidence, receive thoughtful feedback and leave with renewed clarity, momentum and inspiration.
What makes these gatherings different?
This isn’t simply a writing gathering.
It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the slower rhythm of southern Italy while becoming part of a small, supportive community of writers.
Your days will include:
- Daily writing workshops with a writing mentor
- Dedicated time to work on your memoir or writing project
- Individual editorial feedback and mentoring
- Daily sharing sessions in a safe and encouraging environment
- A pre-event Zoom workshop to prepare your writing
- Time to swim, rest and reflect
- Shared meals beneath the stars
- Guided visits to the beautiful historic towns of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare
- Local markets, delicious Puglian food and unforgettable conversations
Whether you’re writing memoir, personal essays, life stories, narrative non-fiction or simply discovering your voice, you’ll leave with more than pages.
You’ll leave with greater confidence in your writing—and perhaps a deeper sense of home within yourself.
Join a gathering
Upcoming dates
Interested in attending an upcoming gathering? Take a look at the options available and read all about what is included in this special experience.