Author: creativehatkelly

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Exciting News! Guest Speaker Christian Francis

We’ve got more thrilling news to share. This Wednesday evening, April 24th, we’re honoured to welcome a very special guest speaker to one of our Writing Groups, the bestselling master of horror, Christian Francis

About the author …

Christian Francis is an author of the darkest of fantasy and the strangest of horror. In addition to his own works for both adult and YA audiences, he has written official novelizations for classic genre films such as ‘Wishmaster’, ‘Vamp’, and ‘Creature’ (aka ‘Titan Find’). He has also co-written with the legendary horror icon Tom Holland (writer and director of ‘Fright Night’ and ‘Child’s Play’) with the trilling horror/murder-mystery ‘Killing Frank’.

In addition to his writing, Francis is also an accomplished graphic designer, has narrated dozens of audiobooks, sung in many bands, ran a rock karaoke at music festivals, and even co-hosted a true crime podcast!

Whether you’re a seasoned author, an aspiring writer, or simply someone who loves a good story get in touch to ask about our courses and next time you could have the opportunity to meet one of our future guest speakers.

Christian’s work can be purchased in all major bookstores and of course online here

We can’t wait to meet him and hear about his many projects one of which we have as our current read – The Devil and the Deep. Details below from the publisher…

Dive into “The Devil and The Deep,” where dark fantasy meets bone-chilling horror in an unforgettable journey.

Many years have passed since a harrowing exorcism in the coastal town of Port Gaynor. Yet still, the shadows of evil linger, ready to shatter that now peaceful haven. As the town’s serenity unravels, the boundary between sanity and madness blurs, unleashing a blood-curdling prophecy, and residents soon find themselves ensnared in a sinister saga of demons, cults, and ancient deities.

Christian Francis masterfully guides you through a maelstrom of terror, where each page promises a heart-pounding, eerie, and wildly unpredictable adventure.

Accompanying this novel are four bonus tales, each a unique glimpse into realms of the weird and macabre.

Prepare for a reading experience that blends gripping suspense, dark mythology, and a dash of the bizarre, making “The Devil and The Deep” a must-read for horror and dark fantasy enthusiasts alike.

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Embrace the Magic: Creative Writing Ideas for St. Patrick’s Day

As the lush green landscape of Ireland comes alive with festivities on St. Patrick’s Day, let’s channel that spirit into our creative endeavours. Here are some ideas to infuse your writing with the luck of the Irish:

  1. Leprechaun’s Secret Diary: Imagine stumbling upon a dusty old journal hidden beneath a moss-covered rock. Inside, you discover the musings and adventures of a mischievous leprechaun. Write entries detailing his encounters with humans, his tricks and treasures, and his reflections on the world beyond the rainbow.
  2. Irish Folklore Retelling: Dive into the rich tapestry of Irish mythology and folklore. Choose a classic tale like the legend of Cú Chulainn or the Children of Lir, and put your own spin on it. Reimagine the characters, settings, and plot twists to breathe new life into these timeless stories.
  3. Magical Pot of Writing Prompts: Picture a shimmering pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, but instead of coins, it’s filled with writing prompts! Each prompt is more enchanting than the last, leading you on a journey through fantastical realms, mythical creatures, and heartwarming tales of friendship and love.
  4. Irish-Inspired Poetry: Let the rhythm of Celtic music and the beauty of Ireland’s landscapes inspire your poetry. Write odes to rolling green hills, lyrical ballads about ancient castles, or haikus capturing the fleeting beauty of a rainbow stretching across the sky.
  5. Modern-Day Banshee Encounter: Transport your readers to contemporary Ireland, where ancient legends collide with modern-day life. Imagine a protagonist who encounters a banshee on the streets of Dublin, leading to a thrilling adventure that blurs the lines between myth and reality.
  6. Irish Flavors in Fiction: Explore the sensory delights of Irish cuisine in your writing. Describe the aroma of freshly baked soda bread, the warmth of a hearty bowl of Irish stew, or the tangy sweetness of a pint of Guinness. Use food as a way to evoke atmosphere and evoke memories for your characters.
  7. Lucky Charms and Superstitions: Delve into the world of Irish superstitions and lucky charms. Write a story about a character who believes in the power of four-leaf clovers, horseshoes, or lucky coins, and the adventures they have as they seek out these talismans for good fortune.
  8. Emerald Isle Travelogue: Take your readers on a virtual journey through Ireland’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Write a travelogue-style piece detailing your adventures exploring the Cliffs of Moher, wandering the streets of Galway, or uncovering the mysteries of ancient Celtic ruins.
  9. Irish Ghost Stories: Set the scene for spine-tingling tales of the supernatural set amidst the misty moors and crumbling castle ruins of Ireland. Write about haunted houses, restless spirits, and ancient curses that linger in the Irish countryside.
  10. St. Patrick’s Day Flash Fiction: Challenge yourself to write a short story set entirely on St. Patrick’s Day. Capture the energy and excitement of the celebrations, the camaraderie of friends and family, and the magic that seems to hang in the air on this special day.

So grab your shamrock pen and let your imagination run wild! May the luck of the Irish be with you as you embark on these creative writing adventures. Happy St. Patrick’s Day, and may your stories shine as bright as a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow! 🍀

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Exciting News! Guest Speaker Af Marseh

We’ve got some thrilling news to share. This Wednesday evening, March 13th, we’re honoured to welcome a very special guest speaker to one of our Writing Groups: none other than the incredibly talented writer Af Marseh, author of the poignant and hilarious memoir “Tumorous Hesticles.”

Af Marseh’s book is a journey of resilience, laughter, and raw honesty. In it, he shares his personal battle with testicular cancer and the unexpected twists and turns that life threw his way. But what sets his story apart is his unique ability to infuse humour into even the toughest of situations.

During our workshop, Af Marseh will dive into his writing process, sharing insights into how he turned his life experiences into a bestselling book. From navigating the highs and lows of the publishing world to finding the courage to share his story with the world, his journey is sure to inspire and motivate all of our writers.

Whether you’re a seasoned author, an aspiring writer, or simply someone who loves a good story get in touch to ask about our courses and next time you could have the opportunity to meet one of our future guest speakers.

Af’s debut novel, Tumourous Hesticles can be purchased here.

A little more about Af…

Af Marseh, is an international sports event manager and adventurer at heart. His love for challenges has taken him around the world. His career has seen him managing major events such as the Summer Olympic Games, FIFA International football matches, and the Special Olympics. Away from work Af is usually taking on challenges or walking his two Dachshunds.

We can’t wait to meet him.

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International Women’s Day

A guest post by Kelly Hatley

I love International Women’s Day – it reminds me to check in with friends who I may not have spoke with since last year’s International Women’s Day – and that’s okay. It’s great if you keep in touch with friends and loved ones as much as possible but if you haven’t for whatever reason, I think it’s okay to use a sappy holiday like valentines day or a hashtag trend or a somewhat cheesy gif to say ‘hi – I’m thinking of you and love that I know you and appreciate you in my life’.

We can’t do that when they are no longer there.

I have been trying to first fathom the unfathomable and comprehend the death of one of my students, Tricia Ramsay and also recognise and celebrate her life and loss publicly, to honour her and her family respectively. Creative Hats is a business, it’s small but growing and Tricia is a huge part of our success. Of course we want to shout to the world the loss and love we feel since the news of her sudden and unexpected death in January.

As a business owner I am very conscious that jumping on international women’s day hashtags can be met both beautifully but also cynically and that is the last thing I would want.

However it suddenly became clear to me that today was the day we had to share Tricia Ramsay – she was undoubtedly one of the strongest women I had the luxury to know. So, it is late in the day but I have made a short video tribute below and also share the words we added to a floral book tribute (made by another of our writer’s talented mum).

Tricia you are gone but never forgotten and never a truer word has been said.

Tricia,
We write this with heavy emptier hearts and struggle to comprehend a world without you. So, let’s instead just think of our world with you.

You entered our writing lives from North Herts College where you instantly made your mark and impressed the groups with your vast array of writing skills and collation of work.

You were definitely one of the most prolific writers in our group. Constantly beavering with ideas and churning out stories. Everyone was impressed. You wanted your books in the world more than most and worked twice as hard, as you tackled various barriers. Your life hadn’t been easy and you were gracious to share a lot of your past with us.

We are grateful and better having known you and the strength and determination you demonstrated. Your education hadn’t been easy as you worked through dyslexia and strived to help others by encouraging us to make work more accessible and support organisations that do the same.

Tricia you will continue to inspire and drive us to be better writers and individuals. It has been an honour to know and be part of your life. We hope to keep in touch with your family and hear more stories about your beautiful daughters.

Our group isn’t the same without you but it won’t be without you. You will definitely remain in our stories, workshops, books, thoughts.

Love and hugs,
Your Writing Elephants xxx

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Happy St. David’s Day – Let’s Celebrate and Write!

Hey there, creative souls! It’s that time of the year again – St. David’s Day! 🌼 As we honor the patron saint of Wales, why not embrace the spirit of creativity and let our imaginations run wild? Whether you’re Welsh or simply captivated by the rich culture and history of Wales, this day offers the perfect opportunity to dive into the world of creative writing.

The Legend of St. David: A Spark for Your Imagination

St. David, also known as Dewi Sant, was a renowned Welsh bishop who lived in the 6th century. Legend has it that he performed miracles and spread Christianity throughout Wales. His most famous miracle? Restoring the sight of a blind man during a sermon! Talk about inspiring material for a tale of faith, resilience, and the power of belief.

Capture Wales within Your Words

From the rugged landscapes of Snowdonia to the enchanting tales of dragons and knights, Wales is a treasure trove of inspiration for writers. Close your eyes and envision the misty valleys, the ancient castles, and the rolling hills adorned with daffodils – each scene begging to be immortalized in prose or poetry.

Writing Prompts to Get You Started

  1. Write a Letter to St. David: Imagine you’re penning a heartfelt letter to St. David, expressing your gratitude for his guidance and seeking inspiration for your own journey.
  2. The Quest for the Golden Daffodil: Craft a tale of adventure set in the Welsh countryside, where a brave protagonist embarks on a quest to find the legendary Golden Daffodil and save their village from an ancient curse.
  3. Voices of the Valleys: Explore the diverse voices and stories of Wales – from the fishermen of Aberystwyth to the poets of Swansea – and weave them together into a tapestry of community and heritage.
  4. Whispers of the Tafwys: Delve into Welsh folklore and mythology, weaving together tales of mythical creatures like the Tylwyth Teg (fairies) and the Ceffyl Dŵr (water horse) with modern-day settings and characters.

As we celebrate St. David’s Day, let’s embrace the magic and wonder of Wales through the power of storytelling. Whether you’re crafting epic tales of heroism or capturing the quiet beauty of a Welsh sunset, remember that every word you write adds to the rich tapestry of Welsh culture and creativity.

So, grab your pen (or keyboard) and let your imagination take flight. Happy writing, and Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿✍️

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Creative Writing on Burn’s Night

As the crisp winter air settles in and the aroma of haggis fills the kitchen, Burns Night becomes a celebration of poetry, culture, and the enduring spirit of Robert Burns. This year, why not add a touch of creativity to your festivities by incorporating unique writing activities that pay homage to the Bard himself? Here are some imaginative ideas to spark your creativity on this special night.

Burns-inspired Poetry Slam:
Host a poetry slam featuring works inspired by Robert Burns. Encourage participants to explore themes of love, nature, and Scottish heritage. The rhythmic cadence of Burns’ verses can serve as a muse for crafting contemporary poems that resonate with the essence of his timeless classics.

Character Creation Challenge:
Invite your guests to create fictional characters inspired by Burns’ poems. Whether it’s Tam o’ Shanter or the beloved mouse from “To a Mouse,” challenge participants to breathe new life into these characters through short stories or modern-day adaptations.

Interactive Storytelling:
Begin a collaborative storytelling session where each person adds a sentence or two to a developing narrative. Incorporate Burns Night elements like traditional Scottish settings, kilts, and, of course, the spirited presence of the haggis. This collaborative effort can result in a unique and entertaining tale.

Whisky-Inspired Writing Prompts:
Set the mood by indulging in a selection of fine whiskies and let the spirits of the night guide your creativity. Craft writing prompts based on the flavours, aromas, and experiences associated with different whiskies. Share your stories or poems with fellow enthusiasts as you sip and savour.

Burns Night Toasts and Limericks:
Challenge your guests to compose their own toasts or limericks in the style of Robert Burns. The wit and humour intrinsic to Burns’ work can serve as inspiration for crafting clever and entertaining verses that celebrate the joyous moments of the night.

This Burns Night, elevate your celebration by infusing it with the power of words and creativity. Whether you’re penning heartfelt verses, creating fictional characters, or toasting with lighthearted limericks, these creative writing ideas will undoubtedly add an extra layer of warmth and inspiration to your Burns Night festivities. So, gather your friends, raise a glass, and let the creative spirit of Robert Burns guide your pen as you embark on a literary journey in honour of Scotland’s cherished bard. Slàinte mhath!

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The Writer’s Gym: Sculpting Literary Muscles through Creative Workouts

Just as athletes hit the gym to hone their physical prowess, writers too can benefit from a designated space to flex their creative muscles. Welcome to the Writer’s Gym, a haven where wordsmiths engage in a variety of exercises to build strength, endurance, and agility in the realm of creative writing. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essential components of a writer’s gym, providing insights into how each aspect contributes to the development of a robust and versatile writing skill set.

  1. Cardiovascular Workouts: Warm-Up with Freewriting

Every great writing session begins with a warm-up, and for writers, freewriting serves as the perfect cardio exercise. Set a timer, let your thoughts flow, and allow your pen to dance across the page. This unrestricted form of writing helps to clear the mind, overcome creative blocks, and generate fresh ideas. Just like jogging warms up the body, freewriting warms up the mind for more structured creative endeavors.

  1. Strength Training: Crafting Powerful Prose

In the writer’s gym, strength training involves the deliberate crafting of powerful prose. This includes mastering sentence structure, developing a strong narrative voice, and refining the art of descriptive writing. Engage in exercises that challenge your ability to convey emotions, paint vivid scenes, and build tension. Just as lifting weights builds physical strength, these activities strengthen your ability to wield language with precision and impact.

  1. Flexibility Workouts: Exploring Different Genres

A well-rounded writer is one who can adapt to different styles and genres. Just as yogis enhance their flexibility, writers can benefit from exploring various genres—poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and more. Experiment with different tones, perspectives, and narrative structures to expand your creative range. This flexibility allows you to tackle diverse writing projects with ease and versatility.

  1. Endurance Training: Completing Writing Challenges

Endurance is a key component of any writer’s journey. Set aside dedicated time for writing challenges, such as participating in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) or committing to daily writing sprints. These challenges push your creative boundaries, helping you develop the stamina needed to sustain long-term writing projects. Like marathon runners, writers who endure challenges emerge with a sense of accomplishment and a stronger writing foundation.

  1. Core Workouts: Developing Plot and Character

A strong core is essential for physical stability, and in writing, it translates to the development of compelling plots and characters. Engage in exercises that focus on creating well-rounded characters, constructing intricate plotlines, and weaving subplots seamlessly into your narratives. A robust core ensures that your stories stand firm and resonate with readers on a deeper level.

Just as a fitness enthusiast invests time and effort into sculpting their physique, a writer benefits from a well-rounded regimen at the Writer’s Gym. Freewriting, strength training, flexibility workouts, endurance training, and core exercises collectively contribute to the development of a skilled and versatile wordsmith. So, lace up your literary sneakers, grab your favourite writing tools, and embark on a journey of creative fitness at the Writer’s Gym. Your writing will thank you for the workout.

Our online packages start from £85 and in-person £180 – or you can join on a monthly payg basis @ £48

Email kelly@creativehats.co.uk for more details/dates

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Unleash Your Creativity: Join Our Latest Writing Gym in the Heart of Letchworth Town Centre!

Welcome to a world of words and imagination at our new venue in Letchworth town centre! We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Writer’s Gym, writing classes and monthly pop-up shop, where literary enthusiasts and aspiring writers can come together to celebrate the magic of storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or just starting your writing journey, our vibrant community is the perfect place to foster creativity and connect with fellow book lovers.

Discover the Venue: Nestled in the heart of Letchworth town centre and all thanks to Cllr David Levett and his Stepping Stones initiative, our new venue provides a professional and inspiring space for writers of all levels. The classroom is equipped with the latest technology to enhance your learning experience, ensuring that you get the most out of each writing class. With a self contained kitchen, and a warm ambiance, you’ll find the perfect environment to let your ideas flow and craft captivating stories.

Unleash Your Writing Potential: Our writer’s gym caters to a variety of genres and skill levels, led by our experienced instructor Kelly Hatley who is passionate about nurturing talent. From planning, creative writing and creative non-fiction, storytelling techniques, genre conventions and publishing advice, our classes are designed to unlock your full writing potential. Whether you’re interested in penning the next great novel, mastering the art of short stories, exploring poetry, scripts, or simply exercising that writer’s muscle regularly, then our classes are tailored just for you.

Monthly Pop-Up Shop: In addition to our writing classes, we are excited to bring you a monthly pop-up shop featuring a curated selection of books from diverse genres and local published authors – many from our courses. Immerse yourself in the world of literature as you browse through our collection, meet local writers learn about new courses and gather publishing advice designed to captivate readers and writers of all tastes. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new bestseller or a hidden gem, our pop-up shop is a literary hub waiting to be explored.

Join Our Vibrant Community: Our venue is more than just a space for classes and book sales; it’s a hub for literary enthusiasts to come together, share ideas, and build connections. Join our vibrant community of writers, readers, and creatives who are passionate about the written word. Networking events, author talks, and book club gatherings are just a few of the exciting activities we have planned to make our spaces a true haven for bibliophiles.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of something special. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or someone who simply enjoys getting lost in the pages of a good book, our new venue in Letchworth town centre will welcome you with open arms.

Get ready to unleash your creativity, connect with like-minded individuals, and immerse yourself in the world of words. Stay tuned for our class schedules, pop-up shop dates, and upcoming events by following us on social media and visiting our website.

Come be a part of the literary magic at our newest venue in Letchworth town centre – where stories come to life!

Coming in February 2024

Email kelly@creativehats.co.uk to express your interest and receive full details as they go live.

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Embrace the Blank Page: Crafting Your 2024 Writing Plans

It’s 2024, the start of a brand new year, which presents a great opportunity for writers to set ambitious goals, embrace creativity, and embark on a journey of self-discovery through their words. Whether you’re a seasoned wordsmith or someone just beginning to explore the world of writing, the dawn of the new year is the perfect time to reflect on your writing journey and chart a course for the months ahead.

Here at Creative Hats we have lots of exciting news and plans for courses, author talks, book signing events and more and we have a newsletter in the making which will release next week but until then have a think about what you want as a writer for 2024 and remember some of these tried and tested prompts:

  1. Reflect on Your Writing Journey:

Before diving into your new year writing plans, take a moment to reflect on the past year. Consider the highs and lows, the projects completed and those left untouched. Acknowledge the challenges you faced and the lessons you’ve learned. This reflection will serve as the foundation for setting realistic and meaningful goals for the coming year.

  1. Set Clear and Achievable Goals:

Goal-setting is a crucial aspect of any writing plan. Rather than vague resolutions, set clear, measurable, and achievable goals. Whether it’s completing a novel, publishing an article, or simply writing a certain number of words each day, make sure your goals are specific and tailored to your personal writing journey.

  1. Establish a Writing Routine:

Consistency is key when it comes to writing. Establishing a writing routine can help you stay on track and make writing a natural part of your daily life. Whether it’s early mornings, late nights, or a dedicated time during the day, find a schedule that works for you and stick to it.

  1. Explore New Writing Styles and Genres:

The new year is an excellent time to step out of your comfort zone and explore new writing styles and genres. Challenge yourself to try your hand at poetry, short stories, or even non-fiction if you predominantly write fiction. Embracing variety can breathe new life into your writing and expand your creative horizons.

  1. Join Writing Communities:

Writing can sometimes be a solitary endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be. Joining writing communities, either online or in-person, can provide valuable support, feedback, and inspiration. Surrounding yourself with fellow writers can create a sense of accountability and motivation to stay committed to your writing goals.

  1. Embrace Revisions and Editing:

The writing process doesn’t end with the first draft. Embrace the art of revisions and editing. Allocate time in your writing plan for revisiting and refining your work. This critical step is essential for honing your craft and producing polished, high-quality pieces.

As you embark on your 2024 writing plans, remember that the journey is as important as the destination. Embrace the blank page with excitement and determination. Set meaningful goals, cultivate a writing routine, explore new horizons, and connect with fellow writers. May this new year be filled with creativity, growth, and the fulfilment of your writing aspirations. Happy writing!

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I went to a festival about writing and learnt how to fail better …

by Mina Mahmodi

On Saturday 28th October, I attended a writing festival in London. It was organised by Jericho writers, an organisation that provides writing courses, helps new writers find agents and get published. It was amazing to see so many fellow writers, be inspired by them and learn tips from literary agents. Philippa East, author of Little white lies, and few other psychological thrillers opened the festival with her keynote address, How to fail better. In her engaging speech she told us about her own journey to become a writer and how we all have to learn to deal with failure as an inevitable part of a writing career.  Reaching all the way up to the summit is almost impossible for the majority of us, so it is important to enjoy and celebrate little hard won achievements along the way. Philippa is a clinical psychologist as well as fiction writer and her mini course on, The Psychological Secrets of Writing, which was held in the afternoon, explored the best ways to create realistic and believable characters then explain their actions. 

Is it strange to call yourself a writer having never heard of an Elevator Pitch? Well, I had no clue until literary agent Laura Williams in her workshop, Nail your Elevator Pitch explained the term to us: the idea is to be able to tell someone the main gist of your book during a short elevator journey.  According to her, fifty well selected words should be sufficient enough to pitch someone’s attention and make them want to read your story. Only fifty words, come on! What actually convinced me were the pitches read back from the floor. People can do magic with just fifty words.

There were other mini courses and workshops and a Friday night live (only on Saturday), how weird! Why couldn’t they just call it Saturday night live? How else can we show that writers are a weird breed? Anyway, during this event the eight shortlisted writers read their five hundred words and got feedback from a panel of literary agents and the winner was the one who got the most cheers and applause from the floor. 

I came away from the festival uplifted and encouraged to write more. it’s great to be part of such an amazing community.

Mina’s latest novella, The Rolling Pumpkin can be purchased here