Is there any reason that you might consider franchised scrapbooking retreats over those just organized by anyone, or those that you might organize yourself?  There are a few things to think about if you're considering organizing your own retreat or weekend, which of course can be done with great success, or if you're considering franchised scrapbooking retreats organized by someone else.  Here are some things to consider before you make your decision.

For one thing, you may be thinking of organizing your own scrapbooking retreat or weekend because you know some friends and family members that would be interested, but just how many people would actually commit to showing up?  Remember; when it comes to any block of hotel rooms or restaurant reservations or anything else, the more people you have the cheaper your rates.  This is something that franchised scrapbooking retreats can offer all of the participants - a cheaper rate than they may be able to get themselves.  When you consider the cost of a room for one or two nights, meals, transportation, and everything else, you realize how important it is to get the best rate available.

Another thing to keep in mind is that not even the most dedicated hobbyist is going to want to spend two or three full days just scrapbooking.  Usually franchised scrapbooking retreats have other activities or things nearby that participants can join in.  Even if they don't actually organize something, they may very well know of local restaurants, movie theaters, museums, and other such places that they can notify their group of so that if someone gets a bit bored or restless, they can easily get away for a few hours if they want.

Many franchised scrapbooking retreats also have experience in having someone that is very good at directing a group or organizing them so that everyone knows what they're going to be doing and can have some direction.  Simply having a group all get together to do scrapbooks at a hotel probably isn't going to be enough to keep a group occupied for a weekend.

You can of course try to organize your own retreat, and some have had good success with this.  You and your group may not even be looking for anything fancy but just want to get away to do some scrapbooking together.  But for some, franchised scrapbooking retreats may be a much better option.