What’s Inquiry Pop-up cost?
A whole entire week?!
How will my days go?
Who are these luminaries you’re talking about?
Who are the other participants?
Indulge me… What’s Inquiry Pop-up?
Why the name Inquiry Pop-up?
The area’s one big photo-op, right?
Wait, no photos, allowed?
Where should I book my lodgings?
Can I sleep at Rimrock Ranch?
Can I invite my friends?
How do I get to Pioneertown?
Is my phone going to work in the desert?
What can I do to prepare?
Yo hablo, dietary restrictions?
Is this for me if I’m not rugged?
What’s included, again?
How do I pay for Inquiry Pop-up?
And if something comes up, and I can’t come?
What’s Inquiry Pop-up cost?
$2222. Why? Because duplicate numbers are rad—and the spreadsheet says that amount affords me to not subsidize the gathering.
Included are 5 days of workshops with luminaries from the arts, design and culture, as well as a seat at the table each night for a brilliantly-conceived dinner party. You’ll also have access to the Rimrock Ranch compound to work-in/hang-out/collab each day. Finally, all week long, I’m available to work with you, one-on-one. It’s my pleasure and honor. Grab me spontaneously or let’s schedule time. We can talk about creative direction, design solutions, opportunities to seize and more. {Design! Opinion! Tarot!}
Because of the differences in how folks like to vacay, Inquiry Pop-up is not all-inclusive. Where you sleep and daytime meals are at your discretion. I’m more than happy to help you pick the right place to retire each night, be it Airstream, swank hotel room or rustic casita for rent.
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A whole entire week?
Yes. A whole e n t i r e week.
As action takers what we’re making tends to be prioritized over expanding perspective, fueling up and ‘re-educating the eye’ as the dear Bill Cunningham would say. (See the “Indulge me” Q below for more on his influence on Inquiry Pop-up}
And even if we do allow for equilibrium between intake and output, have we lately? Or often enough?
Inquiry Pop-up emphasizes the processes of making, experiential knowing, and unexpected integration. The stuffs that flourish with time on its side. The immersive nature of Inquiry Pop-up is designed to trigger a body of inquiry where you have the opportunity of time and space to allow for clarity. A week (which intentionally includes two travel days) of action and reflection feels ’bout right. And…
If that amount of time is a road block for you, I do have a mini-week idea we can discuss. An Inquiry Hiccup if you will. Reach out to see how you can wiggle-in to coming for the week, or, to hear about a shorter 1-on-1 experience.
(TAKE the week!)
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How will my days go?
Inquiry Pop-up is Sunday, 12 March through Thursday, the 16th. Plan to arrive in Pioneertown on Saturday the 11th and to depart on Friday the 17th.
Y’all will wake up get your day started in whatever way you desire (early coffee and hammock time, breakfast burrito after a trail run…), then around 9, we’ll meet at ‘Rimrock’ to work with the day’s Guest of Honor via workshop, dialogue, vision quest, fail-positive activity, etc.
We’ll break for lunch around 1. And then linger. Your afternoons are at your discretion. Free to be whatever you’re wanting to do/see/try. But might I suggest scheduling ‘nothing’ per chance? Making an allowance for unplanned time, means inviting integration—not to mention weaning yourself off the rush of external affirmation. The solid ground you’ll be standing on come dinnertime makes for the juiciest conversations. (TAKE the siesta!) Let’s say ‘round 7 we come together at Rimrock again for a generous, and simple yet sublime culinary marvel by the divine folks behind El Dorado Supper Club.
Experience has shown that our luminaries make arrangements to stay on for the full week, or kick themselves for not coming earlier. They days are simply nourishing. For all. Surrendering to the the no-need-to-rush-home vibe goin’ on, ‘Mañana’ is our toast. To another day!
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Who are these luminaries you’re talking about?
While I have many fine folks in mind, I curate the final coterie based on the ‘yes!’ RSVPs received. All are folks I deeply admire and trust will bring so much to Inquiry Pop-up. I have confirmed 2 of our 5: Dana Balicki and Liz Robb. I chose them based on the power of their work and their immediate enthusiasm for what Inquiry Pop-up is all about. What sealed the deal was how they saw the many possibilities inherent when I offered them space to create something special for us. Details of their offerings are in development and again, will reflect the vibe of our tribe. For now, you can learn more about Dana and Liz, here.
And these are some of the other folks I’m in conversation with. I’ll make a note next to their names when/if they’re confirmed and update the link above with bios, etc. For now we’re all in the dream stage: Pallavi Sen, Malia Mills, Andrea Zittel, Erica Feldmann<, Pixie Lighthorse, Kerrilynn Pamer and Cindy DiPrima, Parashakti.
And for the super curious: Last year’s Luminaries.
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Who are the other participants?
As I’ve mentioned, this is invite-only—so it’s you, me, other friends of mine and maybe some of their friends. There are no troublemakers in the lot (well, actually…), just the finest of fine humans. My gals are: PR Execs, Personal Stylists, Museum Curators, Novelists, Designers, Art Buyers, Bloggers, Hospitality Experts, Beauty Product Creators, Body Workers, Event Planners, Artists, Yoginis, action-takers… All are grand dreamers—soulful forms of wisdom, ease and fun.
We’ll be 15 total. Maybe 10. Maybe 20. But no more than that.
I’ll for sure be making introductions, finding places of intersections—but have ZERO doubt organically y’all will do this yourselves. Quickly, effortlessly, brilliantly. Inquiry is now in it’s third year and the connections that have been forged are as heart-warming as they are powerful.
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Indulge me… What’s the back-story with Inquiry Pop-up?
Gladly. In 2010 I saw a movie that was the antecedent of what was to become Inquiry Pop-up. At a certain point, Bill Cunningham, in his eponymous documentary Bill Cunningham New York, says he has to come back to Paris every six months “to re-educate the eye.” This was but one gem spoken by him—or about him—in the 84 minute biography. The movie left me rapt. Mr. Cunningham’s pluck, outlook and prolific career was most enviable. It was then when I first realized something critical was missing from my practice. Something Bill had. What exactly that was, was unclear. But immediately, intuitively, I booked a flight to Paris.
Something Anna Wintour conceded early in the film could be a clue to my impulsive response:
What amazed me, is he and I, and all my team, and all the rest of the [fashion] world are sitting at the same fashion show—but he sees something on the runway that completely missed all of us. And in six months time, you know, THAT will be a trend.
A-ha! Bill’s eye was clear to see the future. Clear to create the future. More than the most revered, and trusted in the industry. I, too, wanted to do my best work and feel most fully myself. To be on the vanguard. A dedication to refreshing the eye became an important part of my practice. Privileging creating opportunities for intake over output would keep me excited, and relevant, and in service to my ideals—and my client’s.
In every place I visited, this friend and that friend came to mind:
Oh, [blah-blah] needs to come here.
[So-and-so] MUST see this.
I envisioned gatherings of friends to facilitate fertile “intake” time. For us to refresh the eye together. We’d engage in new skills, new relationships, and a revitalized understanding of the world around us.
Today, Inquiry Pop-up consists of global gatherings held in remote and awe-inspiring locations worldwide. The first two years to act as muse was Marfa, Texas. This year Pioneertown, California called my name. Much has been written about this town—that it’s simultaneously the center-of-the-world, and in the middle of nowhere. Have at Google and see for yourself. Inquiry Pop-up also invites Guests of Honor to help stake claim in our location. They’ve created down-to-earth, simple, inspired presentations to fuel our experience—every day, and cumulatively. This way we can leave behind preconceived notions, and create new pathways of thinking and seeing.
OH! And If you haven’t seen Bill Cunningham New York, go go go. It’s currently streaming on Netflix.
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Why the name Inquiry Pop-up?
For a time I called it “Whatever This Is.” I was thinking it described the indescribable: a mastermind meets residency meets workshop meets retreat meets dinner party meets one-on-one mentorship. What do you call that? Whatever This is! But then that name lost hold on me because it asked more questions than held answers. It was spot-on, however not the right solution. And, I reserve the right to resurrect that title for something, sometime in the future, though.
I was feeling “A Week of Inquiry” for a spell. Closer, but not quite. That name led to an expectation that the entire week was programmed/planned. It also didn’t have the energy of what I was feeling. Plus it’s not really A WEEK of inquiry. It’s 5 days of it—plus two for travel. Anyway, I let that one go the moment “Inquiry Pop-up”, popped into my head.
It’s perfect because yes yes yes to Inquiry. Curious minds are invited and required. And Pop-up was spot-on because just like the retail Pop-up movement, I’m creating short-term, limited edition collections (gatherings) of friends and luminaries in locations worldwide. It’s niche, and its temporary nature creates an uncommon engagement. EXACTLY what I wan’t for you to experience.
Inquiry Pop-up. Boom!
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The area’s one big photo-op, right?
Indeed. No doubt. Major eye candy. And while offering a certain aesthetic is absolutely part of Inquiry Pop-up, privileging human experience over superficial looks is at it’s core. While you’ll be taking in feasts for the eyes—and blowing up your Instagram feed—I aim to make Inquiry Pop-up such that interacting with the location, your ideas, and the folks around you the drug of choice. How often you forget the phone/camera/Instagram will be one metric of Inquiry Pop-up’s success. PS. #inquirypopup
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Wait, no photos, allowed?
Yes yes yes, by all means they’re allowed. Encouraged, even! I know that picture-perfect moments will show up everywhere, and you’ll want to share them—I’ll be snapping pics and posting them to Instagram myself. I mean, look at this place we’re gathering at. AND… I’ve created Inquiry Pop-up so maybe, just maybe, the phone will be knee-jerk reached for shockingly less than your (my) norm. I’m scheming for you to have many meaningful moments, that go beyond merely a pretty occasion deserving of an upload. But it’ll be a vision of loveliness, too.
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Where should I book my lodgings?
I have opinions here, and are absolutely dependent on what you’re in the mood for.
From bohemian glamping to cozy cabin lodging—there’s room at Rimrock Ranch. I’m staying on the property at Hatch House, and available to you is shared-home lodging, private cabins and even a retro-fitted Airstream—ask me, would love to have you!
Have you ever wanted to stay in a Geodesic Dome? It’s one for the books!
Are you a camper, but would like a roof over your head? Look into this Eco-Shack. Not for the faint-at-heart… looks like heaven to me.
Does the above made your skin crawl? The Pioneertown Hotel should not disappoint. And is the closest to Rimrock Ranch.
Are you stylish without pretension. Also “in town” is this gem: Campover. This cabin has modern amenities and is a portrait of light, wood and concrete… You’ll be dreaming of your own home renovation after staying here.
Want more space? How about this off-grid luxury home nearby? The iTHouse was an early contender for this year’s Inquiry, but due to it’s lack of parking I had to let the dream go. But y’all should go! iTHouse.
Like a hotel? Don’t mind a drive? Ace Hotel is 25 miles away, and my favorite place to holiday in Palm Springs. Or go uber civilized and splurge on bungalow at The Avalon. While I’d love to have you close, it’s not uncommon to “commute” from Palm Springs to Pioneertown. It’s a quick drive, no traffic and the views are awe-inspiring. Every time.
Also if you are looking for a fellow Pop-up roomie, let me know. I’ll get y’all in touch to make arrangements.
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Can I sleep at Rimrock Ranch?
There is room at the inn, but only for a few. And only for those who raise their hands first. The price is competitive with the area, some solo rooms, some shared homes, even a restored Airstream… all an incredible treat. Let me know.
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Can I invite my friends?
You’ve been invited to Inquiry Pop-up because I know you to be a curious person, possessing grit and unparalleled camaraderie—you play nice with others. I’ve also seen you to be a good judge of character. So, I’m fully open to hear about someone you believe would absolutely LOVE Inquiry Pop-up, and would really contribute to the dynamic. Including older, self-reliant children.
However, no babies, por favor. Adult or otherwise. Due to allergies, aversions… dogs are only welcome with prior permission. LMK.
The decision for me to NOT make Inquiry Pop-up available to just anyone who can click a link was deliberate. It supports our having a symbiotic and harmonious week together. From past group experiences I’ve had (and quite possibly you too?), a bad apple can spoil things disproportionately. It’s a real bummer when a negative, uncomfortable, far out-of-sync person is in the mix.
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How do I get to Pioneertown?
Unless you have/charter a private jet, and fly directly into Palm Springs’ minuscule municipal airport, plan to rent a car and road trip. It’s a 2-3 hour drive. LA’s Ontario Airport is 86 miles away. Las Vegas is a solid 5 hour drive south and west. Phoenix, a 4 hour straight-shot west.
In my humble opinion, road trips are very personal things. But I’m also opinionated about driving, and am happy to tell you my opinion on how to get here or there—anywhere. I love it actually. You tell me what you want the trip to be: fast and direct, off-the-beaten-trail, or to include a stop for amazing enchiladas, I got this. And if you want a co-pilot I can play matchmaker, too.
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Is my phone going to work in the desert?
I don’t know your mobile plan or phone make, however, unless yours is an antiquated device—you’ll be connected. It’s a 4G kinda place. Do note though that free Wifi is not rampant. Hotels and most AirBnB rentals have Wifi included, but make sure to ask if this is important to you.
Rimrock Ranch is pro-Wifi.
Common-sense courtesy: If you plan on working during your stay I only ask that you don’t allow it to interfere with any group activities. During our morning sessions, ringers off please. Our afternoons are unscheduled, so have at those emails/texts/voice mails then. Ya?
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What can I do to prepare?
Read up, buttercup. So much has been written about the area. Here, here, here, and here are great places to start. The hotel websites also give great insights into the local vibe, as well as what to see and do.
I’d geek out on the weather, because it’s got range. Average highs are 72 in the day, and 42 at night. The packing list on your invitation wasn’t kidding when it intimated that wool beanies and Patagonia puffers replace straw hats and field jackets once the sun goes down.
And do do do feel free to reach out to me as you’re planning. I’m happy to offer packing support, road trip advice—or what have you. I’m never lack for an opinion and always love to lend a hand.
In a nutshell, get excited. This is going to be gooooood.
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Yo hablo, dietary restrictions?
Yeah, this is tricky. I’ve researched modern rules of etiquette and compiled a few “Pop-up rules”. This was for my own understanding on how to best navigate this, and so you too know how to handle meals.
1. You’re my guest. Making you feel welcome is part of the deal. If you’re vegan, let me know. If you have Celiac, or another allergy let me know. Knowing dietary restrictions well in advance so our chef can plan meals everyone will enjoy, is my pleasure.
2. As a guest, being polite and helpful is part of the deal. Your primary role as a dinner guest is to be punctual, and create conversation. There are no hostess gifts or thank you notes required—but doing your part to clear the table, drying a dish or two and giving verbal gratitude for the food and the chef is Miss Manners approved.
3. Food preferences are not the same as genuine restrictions. A fully grown adult who chooses to turn their nose up at several standard staple foods is just cuckoo. Remember what I said above about no babies! Unless you know you’ll be in intestinal distress, or you need to abstain due to religion restrictions, maybe try that something new, or scoot it aside without much ado.
4. Consider that there will be about 20 of us each night. While we will offer meat and non-meat options, to accommodate every preference would be a Sisyphean battle.
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Is this for me if I’m not rugged?
While stilettos are no bueno, Pioneertown and surrounding areas is by no means roughing it. Tumbleweed tumbles by, but the sidewalks work. Those sidewalks lead you to top-notch galleries and meals. Artisan and bespoke wares are found in stores. It’s hipster heaven. And I say that with so much affection.
The only exception is for the one of you staying in Rimrock’s Airstream. There’s a little bad-assery involved in walking to Hatch House’s bathroom 200 yards away in 40 degree weather with a flashlight in hand. You need to possess some cojones, even for glamping.
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What’s included again?
All the area has to offer, plus… 5 workshops with luminaries from the arts, design and culture. 5 brilliantly crafted evening meals. Access to the 11 acres Rimrock Ranch compound offers (hiking trails, plunge pool, lounge chairs, fire pits, observation decks…). And one-on-one consults avec moi—if you’d like.
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How do I pay for Inquiry Pop-up?
You can register and pay for Inquiry Pop-up at the Viewers Like You shop. It’s your run-of-mill PayPal storefront, found here. Submitting payment is your declaration of participation and acts the same as registration. I’ll be in touch soon after receipt to welcome you and connect. When Inquiry Pop-up meets it quota the shop will say SOLD OUT, and you’ll be unable to purchase.
Kindly note: Inquiry Pop-up doesn’t traffic in refunds. See below.
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And if something comes up, and I can’t come?
Simply put, I cannot offer refunds. While I’m dedicated to providing a top-notch experience, I’m also really committed to keeping this a low-impact endeavor for myself. Coordinating refunds don’t fall under that metric. However, if you have a change of heart, or a personal matter keeps you from coming, I can see about exchanging your place with someone on the wait-list or, if that’s not a possibility, I can apply a portion of your payment towards a future edition of Inquiry Pop-up. Fair enough?
I want you to be confident and excited about attending Inquiry Pop-up. So kindly get in touch via phone or email to chat it up. I’m thrilled to share with you everything I know, so you can be 100% on-board and register/pay with no qualms.
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