FAQ's

Question: How do I make reservations? What is your billing and cancellation policy?
Answer:

Just gather your friends together. Please, have only one contact person per group.  There is a non-refundable $25 deposit required.  The contact person can hold your desired weekend by sending a check.  Your check will be processed immediately. Each person will be billed for their stay on the departure day of their retreat.  If unable to keep the weekend you have scheduled, you may either find another group to take your reservation or we will be happy to reschedule another available time for your group.  See preference sheet/reservation sheet.  This may be printed or copied.  Mail to Linda Poirier, 24119 MN Hwy 15, Dassel, MN 55325. Email:  Linda@TheSteppingstoneCottage.com

Please note...if you send an email about any retreat, you must add Linda@TheSteppingstoneCottage.com to your address book.  Otherwise, your server may deliver my reply to your spam folder, and you will never get it.

Question: What if there is only three or four of us in our group?
Answer: We charge per person. You are not required to fill all 8 spaces in order to reserve the weekend. However, we do have a minimum of 5. That means that if fewer than 5 are in your group, you are charged for 5 and divide the amount by the number in your group. Each guest should fill out a registration form/preference sheet with deposit.
Question: How far in advance should I reserve my weekend?
Answer: We are taking bookings a year in advance. If you know for sure you want to come this spring or next fall-book now!!! Click here to download the registrations/preferences form.
Question: Can we do something else besides quilt? 
Answer: Absolutely! The Steppingstone Cottage is determined to offer the very best in value and ‘creative’ atmosphere available. You are able to scrapbook, sew, knit, stamp and paste non-stop without any of the distractions that plague you at home or at other commercial venues for crafts and hobbies. This is a get-away weekend for you.  You can do whatever craft you would like or just sit and read a book.  Whatever your need is, we are here to pamper you, so you can relax and go home refreshed!
Question: What time does the weekend start? End?
Answer: Generally, the weekend begins about 3 pm Friday. We are flexible. If you anticipate arriving earlier or later, just let us know, so we are here to greet you. The weekend ends Sunday about 3 pm.  Again, we strive to meet your needs.
Question: What meals are included?
Answer: A Friday welcoming appetizer/snack is provided upon the arrival of all guests.  Friday evening you may go out to one of the area restaurants or have a meal delivered.  The price includes hearty, home cooked meals, Saturday breakfast, lunch and dinner, Sunday early continental breakfast and an abundant Sunday brunch. Some snacks and beverages are provided, but feel free to bring your own.
Question: If we prefer to go out where can we go?
Answer: Within a few miles radius we have Applebees, Buffalo Wings, Grizzlys, Black Bear Lodge & Saloon, Prairie Bay, Morey’s Market and Grille. Then of course there are all of the fast food places which are very close. Pizza,  Mexican and Chinese restaurants along with several small locally owned cafes are nearby. Let us know what you are looking for. If you let us know what you are looking for, we’d be happy to make reservations/arrangements ahead of time for you.
Question: What do I have to bring with me for the weekend?  
Answer: All you need to bring with you is your crafting supplies, comfortable lounging clothes (you don't even need to get out of your jammies if you don't want to),  and a toothbrush. We supply plenty of snacks and beverages. We supply your bedding, your towels & soap for showers, hair dryers, the lounge area with a TV & DVD player. In the creating area there is a stereo system so you might want to bring your favorite CD's .
Question: If I wanted to shop for supplies where could I go?
Answer: Baxter-Brainerd has two very nice quilt shops and a scrapbook store. All are about 5 minutes from us. There is also a JoAnn’s within a couple miles.
Question: What if we don't know for sure how many can come in our group, but we want to reserve a weekend?
Answer: One person from your group can hold the weekend with a $25.00 deposit.  We will reserve the weekend totally for your group. When you have a set number, the person that reserved can let us know how many with their names on a registration form.
Question: Will I have to sleep with someone?
Answer: No, you will have your own single bed.  All four bedrooms have two beds. One bedroom has its own bath.
Question: Can we have alcoholic beverages?  
Answer: Yes, we do not provide them, however you can bring your own.
Question: What are your policies about smoking or pets?
Answer: The Steppingstone Cottage is smoke-free. We ask that you leave your pets at home.
Question: Why do quilters (or other creative hobbies) seek out these occasions to get together?
Answer: It’s a place to bond with friends, learn new techniques, exchange ideas and create lasting memories. You just might need to get away from a household of dishes, kids, husband and dogs and replenish those creative juices. Or maybe, just maybe, you realize that a few days spent sharing with other like minded individuals just might be the best way to recharge your batteries and renew your spirit. Our specialty at The Steppingstone Cottage is to “pamper” you like royalty, so you can go home refreshed and renewed to pamper those “you love”!


We have tried to answer some of the frequently ask questions.  If you have any others please call 320-275-2869 or 320-583-6551 (cell phone) or email us using our contact form (?) if you have questions or need any additional information about our quilting retreat that is not available on this web site. We look forward to hearing from you.