Writing Personal Stories: how to find, plan and publish your memoirs with Emma Dhesi

Description

A NEW series of three, 3-hour beginner-friendly workshops (9 hours in total) designed to inspire and guide you in writing your personal stories run by local bestselling author and certified book coach, Emma Dhesi. Join us for a series of 3 engaging three-hour memoir writing workshops where you’ll learn about writing personal stories through exploring what your memoir is all about; how to plan and write your memoir; and how to share your story through exploring paths to publishing (if you want to) your memoirs. The sessions have been designed to work as a course of three, or independently, and you are welcome to book one, two or all three workshops depending on where you are on on your memoir-writing journey. To secure your space for the full course, we advise booking all 3 sessions at once since spaces on each session are limited. WEEK 1 Tuesday, 27 January 2026: Finding Your Story - what your memoir is really about. Join us for an engaging three-hour memoir writing workshop where you’ll explore meaningful memories and begin crafting them into compelling personal essays or memoir chapters. Whether you’re new to writing or looking to develop your skills, this creative writing for beginners session offers practical tools and guidance to help you turn your memories into engaging stories. In this first workshop you will: understand what makes a memoir different from autobiography; identify the central theme or transformation arc; define your 'narrative lens' - the slice of life your memoir will focus on; and begin crafting your story summary or pitch paragraph. WEEK 2 Tuesday, 24 February 2026: Planning Your Story - planning and writing your memoir. Elevate your memoir with this engaging three-hour workshop. Week 2 focuses on the art of writing vivid, memorable scenes that captivate readers and bring your experiences to life. Whether you’re reflecting on your own life or capturing someone else’s story, this workshop will show you how to turn key moments into powerful, immersive scenes that resonate emotionally and leave a lasting impression. WEEK 3 Tuesday, 24 March 2026: Sharing Your Story - paths to publishing your memoir. A three-hour workshop designed to inspire and guide you in writing your personal stories. In Week 3, you will take the next step in your memoir-writing journey with this three-hour workshop. You will understand the editing and submission process; learn how to write a query letter and synopsis for memoir; explore traditional vs. self-publishing options; and leave with a realistic next-step plan. Designed for memoirists who have begun exploring their stories and are ready to plan their book, this final workshop offers a practical, step-by-step approach to help you create a clear roadmap for your memoir. The workshop provide a supportive, structured space to help you move from writing individual scenes to shaping a cohesive narrative. Whether you’re aiming to complete a full memoir or simply want a deeper understanding of how to organise your ideas, this course is perfect for you. To complete the full course, book each 3 hour workshop session individually, starting from Week 1 on Tuesday, 27 January 2026 and ending on Week 3 Tuesday, 24 March 2026. The dates are spaced one month apart to allow you time to work on your personal stories in between, in preparation for the next workshop session. What to expect: The workshops are designed as a no-pressure, exploratory space where you can connect with your creativity and reflect on your personal experiences. Working together as part of a small group, we will create a supportive and relaxed environment to spark your creativity and help you capture your memories in writing. Earth conscious credentials: We are mindful of the effect we have on the environment, and do our best to minimise our impact. Your workshop correspondence and notes are sent to you electronically, and if you already have your own notebooks we encourage you to bring these with you to the workshop.

What's included in the price?

You don’t need to bring anything—just your ideas and enthusiasm! If you have specific memories or objects you’d like to write about, feel free to bring those for inspiration along with your own notebook if you prefer. All materials, including a workbook to capture your roadmap and ideas. A handout with tools for deepening your writing practice and staying on track. Optional group sharing to exchange ideas and inspiration with fellow writers. Locally-sourced, light refreshments are also included in the price, including a selection of Shibui teas, Mr Eion coffees, plus access to drinking water.

Cancellation policy

Non-refundable - Refunds are not available

Maker

The Arienas Collective

with Craft Courses since 2017

Message the tutor

The Arienas Collective supports local artists and makers to earn a living by sharing their creative skills and passions with others through delivering workshops. The workshops are run from our mews home in the beautiful Georgian New Town of central Edinburgh. We believe in the wellbeing benefits of engaging in creative activity, and our class sizes are kept small so that you get the support you need to make the most of your time with us. We teach you creative skills you can continue at home.