Join Morna March 30-April 1, 2017, and other creative arts professionals just like you and discover the steps to take your creative arts business to the next level and craft the life and business of your dreams.

The Creative Arts Business Summit is a powerful, life-changing experience where creative entrepreneurs take the time to work on their business rather than in their business. You’ll learn what your next steps are, how to get past your obstacles, and create a clear, doable strategy that you will start to implement at CABS.

Attending CABS will help you make more money, reach more people, and create a life and business that you only dream about. You'll leave with an unparalleled network that provides ongoing support. Plus we include lunch so you can keep the connections going.

The CABS experience will provide for you...

  • A renewed enthusiasm for your business
  • A workable revenue strategy specific to your business that you start to implement at CABS
  • Priceless connections with informal mentors to keep you moving forward. (In fact, that starts right when you register to come. We add you to our private Facebook group immediately, so you’ll start to see results even before you come to CABS.)
  • More clarity and confidence in your brand
  • Achievement of your goals faster because you understand where you are and what to do
  • A stronger commitment to take action
  • More certainty about your strategic direction
  • A custom-designed creative business plan that works for you
  • Tools that you can use to continue to grow your business
  • More confidence with money
  • Overcoming blocks that hold you back from progress
  • A plan to capitalize on current social media trends
  • Confidence in how your present yourself professionally, including the opportunity for headshots on site
  • The opportunity to tap into the wisdom of your fellow attendees at our popular "Crushing It" tables
What Some of Our Past Attendees Say...
Kristine Poor Kristine Poor, Poorhouse Quilts

I decided to attend the Creative Arts Business Summit because I wanted to focus on business growth for Poorhouse Quilt Designs, away from daily distractions. What I came away with, after attending the Summit was much more; I found clarity in my vision for my business, renewed enthusiasm for my business processes and a new view of my brand. All of the attendees shared experiences and knowledge and understanding that I couldn’t have imagined, had I not been there to witness it! Morna and the guest speakers inspired us to move beyond today and see the next step. Marketing through social media has been a big “block” for me personally; after discussing this topic, I am using new strategies to accomplish my goals that are “do-able” for me, and I am seeing results! When I returned to my studio, I had a list of actionable items and I am moving forward every day. Just seeing this progress one month after the Summit is exciting! I will definitely return next year! Thanks, Morna!

Rhonda Pierce, Marketing Director Rhonda Pierce, Marketing Director, Euro-notions.com & SCHMETZneedles.com

Thank you for another fabulous Creative Arts Business Summit. This was my third CABS and, along with my one year Mastermind group, want to applaud you for creating such dynamic, safe and creative environments to focus on my brilliance. It’s not always easy to step away from work, but the time and money is so well spent. Since attending CABS, seems each year my business focus becomes more acute and energetic.  In fact, my professional accomplishments seem to be on an accelerated track that I fully credit to your events. Thank you for sharing your brilliance, your knowledge and enriching my professional confidence.

Carolyn Goins Carolyn Goins, CPGDesigns.com

Before coming to the Creative Arts Business Summit, I was at a crossroads in my business. I debated whether I would get anything out of the event. I knew the WHY of my business but I was beginning to fear that the WHY was only in my mind. Throughout the three days, listening to Morna's value-filled sessions, learning the techniques and strategies she taught us, and masterminding with the other attendees, my energy for my business returned to me.  I left with the renewed belief that what I provide is of value and the inner knowledge that I really do want to continue my work. At the end of the second day, the pieces of information that had been swirling around in my brain began to come together. I feel now I have a real plan of action to take with me as I return home and move forward in my business. Despite a dismal year last year I believe that my experiences over these three days have given me what I need to revitalize and revamp what Iím doing this year and anticipate success. This was far more productive and encouraging than I ever expected!

AnnaLee Waite AnnaLee Waite, AnnaLee Waite Designs

I joined CABS three years ago because I wanted to be part of a professional group of creative entrepreneurs. The connections along with the education I have gained through being part of the CABS group have helped me to lay out a very specific plan for my needlework design business which has set me on a path to greater success.  Twelve months after joining joining CABS I made the commitment to be part of the Mastermind Group.  Here I found that small group coaching and weekly accountability calls really raised my awareness of how to fine tune my  business and marketing plan.  Seeing other business owners in the group succeed and then learning in detail how they run their businesses has been a powerful tool to motivate me to improve my business. Building friendships with other creative business owners in the group has been very rewarding

CABS is a small, intimate retreat. You won’t be listening to speaker after speaker. You will actually be digging deep into your business and creating the next steps to realize your business goal.


-Morna McEver Golletz

Here’s what you will discover during our three days together …

  • how to identify your ideal customer and create a foundation that will bring you ideal customers on a continuing basis
  • what your business’ BIG Picture looks like so you can learn how to get what you want
  • how to reverse engineer your 2017 income goal with our Creative Arts Revenue Map™ so you have a workable revenue plan for the year with attainable, achievable goals
  • the value that you have to offer so you can convey that to your clients and customers
  • what is holding you back from business growth and how to get out of your own way
  • systems you need to stay on track to achieve your goals
  • social media practices that return an ROI to your business, so you don’t spend your time on something that doesn’t work for your business.
  • best practices used by other creative arts professionals to drive business success
  • a lasting network of creative entrepreneurs that will care as much about your success as they do their own
  • wonderful opportunities for networking throughout the three days including during the complimentary lunch

Bonus Sessions


Creating a video strategy to promote your business with Alexis Doty of F/22 Video Solutions. Alexis a videographer from Virginia. You can see her work at the top of the CABS page.


Learn the science of communication, negotiation and closing more sales with Dawn Shuler. B.A.N.K.™ helps you understand the value system of the person in front of you in fewer than 90 seconds so you can speak to others the way they listen and sell to your customers the way they buy. Dawn is a certified and licensed BANKCODE™ trainer (and quilter) from Maryland.

Joanne Hillestad Joanne Hillestad, The Fat Quarter Gypsy

It can be life changing! My first year was all about the connections I made with other creative professionals. My second year lead to great opportunities. I came prepared with a notebook of 'million dollar ideas'. I wanted to discuss them with others and decide if any of them were worth pursuing. I think spending 3 intense days in that mindset helped me have an Ah-ha moment. On the afternoon of the last day, I was given a little purple springy trash can. How fun, I thought. I said aloud, "my husband can make these!" I was referring to the springs inside. And that was the beginning of the Fat Quarter Pop Up. Four weeks later my husband and I introduced them to my local quilt shop and the rest is history! You never know what inspiration will come out of CABS... I can't wait to see what this year brings!

Kelly Ann Richardson Kelly Ann Richardson, Kelly Ann's Quilting

Not knowing what to expect when I attended my first Creative Arts Business Summit I was pleasantly surprised by the sharing of knowledge and experience from such a diverse group of independent business owners. While the majority of attendees were pattern designers, Morna fosters an atmosphere for everyone to feel comfortable in giving insight into successes and failures in their business. With my business model being different then the majority I still felt a connection and was able to make solid contacts and forge relationships with several attendees. CABS allows businesses to expand not only their businesses but their minds to new possibilities. At the end of very intensive days I walked away with a lot of tips and organizational skills that I am continuing to use today.

Invest in Yourself and Your Business Today!

CABS Registration is regularly $1297


ICAP Elevating Membership is regularly $167 (for 12 months)


SAVE more than $850 when using promo code IMQASPECIAL


Easy 2-pay plan available

Event Details

This is the fourth year we will be at the Hilton near Dulles Airport. This hotel provides an atmosphere that is conducive to learning, growing and connecting. Dates are March 30-April 1, and you’ll receive hotel registration information when you sign up. (Rate are extremely affordable, and you’ll appreciate the convenient location by the airport.) We start each day at 8:30 in the morning and go until 8:30 in the evening. It truly is a magical experience — we have one attendee who will tell you she came up with a million dollar idea in the room.

Patty Sawyer Patty Sawyer, Border 2 Border Quilting Studio and Sewclusion™ Retreats

I remember arriving at CABS for the first time wallowing in a myriad of negative mind sets, feeling defeated, unsuccessful and overwhelmed. I left CABS feeling like a force to be reckoned with and exploding with new ideas. Morna and her staff not only welcome you with open arms, but help you realize you are not alone in your business struggles. First, you need to understand that CABS is not a thing, it is a network of dynamic business professionals who whether individually or collectively, all selflessly support each other. Whether you need encouragement and applause or to be pulled and dragged kicking and screaming, this network has got your back.

CABS quickly helped me gain the skills and confidence I needed to continually set goals and take some risks necessary to realize and achieve my future dreams. Whether it was simply to establish a system or help find solutions outside of the box, CABS has changed the way I think and feel about my business and my life. Since my first CABS experience, I am purposefully focused, more positive and energy driven, have re-branded, hired help, expanded services and even moved out of state to optimize other opportunities I had only previously dreamt about.   My business is now growing and reflects my values and core business principles and my plan is to continue to have CABS be a part of that growth.

Lisa Reber Lisa Reber, Dippy Dyes

Today marks one week from my first day at the Creative business summit 2013. My husband commented "I've never seen your work so hard!" He doesn't know that I'm working smarter, too! Now I have to improve how I work systematically in the days since I got home have been spent somewhat scattershot, as I move from one bright shiny object to the next. I've started Tweeting; uploaded a video to YouTube and opened my Etsy shop with eight hand-dyed, textured shibori scarves. I've downloaded the newest shopping cart software and started adding inventory items to my website, and I've got hubby set up with a free lecture and a Craftsy class on photographing my products. I'm going to be keeping him busy too! Now I have to block out time to get back to my newsletter and blog, and then, following Morna's advice, set up scheduled posts putting that content out there through social media. Then I'll be back to the dyepots!

Special IMQA ONLY Bonus

When you purchase your ticket to the Creative Arts Business Summit, you will also receive a six month Elevating membership to the International Association of Creative Arts Professionals. Get the details on this membership here.

Invest in Yourself and Your Business Today!

CABS Registration is regularly $1297


ICAP Elevating Membership is regularly $167 (for 12 months)


SAVE more than $850 when using promo code IMQASPECIAL


Easy 2-pay plan available

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I come for only one day?
Answer +

This is a three-day immersion experience into your business with each day building on the next. Please plan to stay all three days.

What kinds of creative folks come to CABS?
Answer +

We have many creative folks who come, many in the fiber field, including pattern designers, longarm quilters, machine embroidery pattern designers, needlework designers, retail store owners, felters, mixed media artists, dyers. We’ve also had a few writers and other artsy types. Wherever you fit into the creative sphere, you’ll find your peeps in the room.

What if I don't really have a business yet or I'm really just getting started? Will I  get anything from CABS?
Answer +

Not everyone who comes to CABS has a long-running or thriving business; some are just starting out. If that’s where you are, no worries. Don’t compare your Chapter 1 with their Chapter 20. We’re each on our own path. You’ll be building the foundation early that others may have put off. Plus, you will make the most unbelievable connections in the room. This group will become your support and sounding board for years to come.

Is this a pitch fest of people trying to sell me stuff?
Answer +

Absolutely not. We will have a couple of special guests who will provide valuable insight for building your business. In the past we’ve enjoyed discussions on copyright with an intellectual property attorney; a presentation on presenting a professional image; and how to hone your speaking skills.

Can I bring a business partner?
Answer +

Definitely. We have a special rate of just $297 for a business partner. You’ll get details when you sign up.

I know you are providing lunch, what if I have special dietary needs?
Answer +

This is one reason we return to the Hilton year after year. The meals get rave reviews — we usually have a salad, a meat and fish entrée, a grain and vegetables. Plus yummy desserts. Most of your options are gluten free. If you need a special meal, the chef will work to provide that.

You said that the days start at 8:30am and end at 8:30 pm. Really?
Answer +

Yes. Our work isn’t quite as intense in the evening. And, last year, some attendees were still at work in our room until after 11 pm. Really!

Who is Morna?
Answer +

Morna McEver is founder and president of the International Association of Creative Arts Professionals. A life-long artist, she has worked with a variety of creatives to help them start and build businesses for more than 20 years. She has written more than 150 published articles and taught more than 1,000 creative professionals how to take their business to the next level. Her personal work has been shown in galleries, won awards, and sold on commission. She is a frequent speaker at conferences. For more information about Morna and the Association of Creative Arts Professionals, please head to our main website home page here.

What if I can't afford it?
Answer +

The price of CABS is the price of CABS. You are so worth this. I believe the experience pays for itself many times over. You’ll find the best pricing the earlier you sign up. We also offer an easy five-pay installment plan.

What if I have to cancel?
Answer +

Of course I hope that doesn’t happen. We’ll miss you and you’ll miss the experience. If you need to cancel anytime prior to February 28, you can do that and we’ll return all that you paid, less a $65 administrative fee. If you cancel after that date, you will not receive a refund.

I still have questions about CABS. Is there someone I could speak with about it?
Answer +

Definitely. Feel free to email Morna (at) CreativeArtsProfessional (dot) com and we’ll set up a time to chat. I want you to feel right about this decision.

I'm interested in sponsoring the event. Who should I speak with?
Answer +

You can learn more about sponsorship here. For personal help, email Laurie (at) CreativeArtsProfessional (dot) com. She’ll be happy to put together a package that fits your needs and budget.

I can't attend the event, but I'm interested in learning more about private coaching or International Association of Creative Arts Professionals membership. How can I learn more?
Answer +

Morna coaches private clients individually, in small groups, and as part of membership in the Association of Creative Arts Professionals. For more information about her coaching or to see if one of these options is right for you, please head to our website and set up a strategy call with Morna.

Special IMQA ONLY Bonus

When you purchase your ticket to the Creative Arts Business Summit, you will also receive a six month Elevating membership to the International Associations of Creative Arts Professionals. Get the details on this membership here.

Invest in Yourself and Your Business Today!

CABS Registration is regularly $1297


ICAP Elevating Membership is regularly $167 (for 12 months)


SAVE more than $850 when using promo code IMQASPECIAL


Easy 2-pay plan available