Private writing class with an author in New Orleans

Imagine sitting down in a cozy New Orleans café, sharing your stories with a seasoned writer who offers honest, constructive feedback tailored just for you. That’s what this private writing session promises—a chance for aspiring writers to hone their craft in one-on-one guidance amid the city’s literary vibe.

While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the reviews suggest it’s a valuable, engaging, and unique opportunity to improve your storytelling skills.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized attention from a pro who’s been teaching for years. Second, the chance to discuss your work in a beautiful, historic city known for its storytelling traditions.

On the flip side, it’s a short session—about an hour and a half—and you’ll need to bring your own written material or email it in advance. Still, for those craving focused feedback, this is a worthwhile investment.

This tour is best suited for aspiring writers, bloggers, or anyone interested in the craft of storytelling who wants expert insights in a relaxed, inspiring setting. If your idea of travel includes improving your writing or simply enjoying a creative boost in a city famous for its voices, this activity fits perfectly.

This experience made our article of Top 15 Workshops & Classes In New Orleans.

Key Points

• Personalized guidance from an experienced author tailored to your writing strengths and weaknesses
• Focus on your own work, whether a story, novel start, or stream-of-consciousness musings
• Relaxed setting in a local coffee shop, fostering honest discussion
• Affordable at $100, offering good value for a private critique session
• Flexible reading and discussion time, based on your preferences
• Free cancellation, with the ability to reschedule or cancel up to 24 hours in advance

Exploring the Details: What to Expect from This Writing Experience

This private writing class is carefully designed to be flexible and personal. You’ll meet at 941 Royal St, in a local coffee shop, a spot likely frequented by residents and visitors alike. The meeting begins at 10:00 am, offering you a calm morning to settle in and focus on your work. The session lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing enough time for meaningful critique without feeling rushed.

The Focus of the Session

The core of this experience is personalized feedback. You’re encouraged to bring a complete story, a small part of a longer work, or even just stream-of-consciousness writing. The instructor, Stephen Rea, suggests around 1,500 words—about six pages—are ideal for critique. This amount is manageable for review and discussion, though more or less can be accommodated depending on your preference.

What the Instructor Offers

Stephen Rea, the guiding hand behind this experience, offers concrete, actionable advice. He explains what works well, what could be improved, and how to strengthen your storytelling. He’s clear that his critique is honest but constructive, aimed at helping you grow as a writer.

He can provide pen and paper if you need them, though most writers prefer to bring their own materials or email their work in advance. The flexibility on the material submitted allows you to tailor the session to your needs—whether you want to fine-tune a scene, develop characters, or get help overcoming writer’s block.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The session includes all the guidance and critique—but not the coffee or tea. You’ll need to bring your own beverage if you want to sip on something while you chat. The location’s proximity to public transportation makes it easy to reach, and the activity is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.

The Value of the Experience

At $100 per person, this activity offers excellent value, especially considering it’s a private session with personalized feedback from an experienced teacher. For writers, this is a chance to get professional insights in a relaxed environment—something that can be hard to find elsewhere for such a reasonable price.

Why Travelers Are Raving About It

While only one review is available, it’s glowing: “This was an extremely enjoyable and useful hour, and great value for money. Stephen certainly knew his stuff!” That kind of feedback suggests you’re in capable hands. The overall rating is perfect, indicating that participants find this activity both beneficial and satisfying.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This activity is perfect for writers at all levels who want personalized feedback. Whether you’re just starting out or have been working on a manuscript, the critique can help you see your work through fresh eyes. It’s also ideal for writers visiting New Orleans, a city infused with stories—perfect for sparking your creativity.

If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure about your writing, this session can be just the nudge you need. And if you simply enjoy talking about craft and storytelling, you’ll appreciate the friendly, honest dialogue.

Detailed Breakdown: What the Experience Looks Like

The Meeting Location

Your meeting begins at 941 Royal St, a central spot in the French Quarter. The neighborhood’s vibrant, historic atmosphere — with its wrought iron balconies and lively streets — sets a creative tone for your session.

The Session Format

The instructor will ask you to bring your own writing, or email it beforehand. Once there, the discussion can be tailored: you might want an overall critique or focus on specific issues like dialogue, pacing, or character development.

The Reading and Feedback Process

Stephen Rea’s approach involves a careful reading of your work. He will provide honest, constructive feedback, highlighting what’s working and where improvements can be made. His experience teaching writing ensures he can pinpoint specific strengths and suggest practical ways to grow.

The Environment and Pace

The relaxed café environment helps keep the session friendly and focused. Since it’s a private activity, there’s no pressure from other participants, and questions are encouraged. You’ll leave with a clearer sense of your storytelling strengths, areas to improve, and next steps.

Authentic Perspectives from Past Participants

The lone review praises the instructor as a “wonderful writing instructor,” emphasizing how enjoyable and worthwhile the hour was. The reviewer also calls it “great value for money,” reinforcing the activity’s affordability for personalized guidance.

Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Right for You?

If you’re a writer eager to improve, this private class offers real benefit. It’s especially valuable if you want focused, personalized feedback, and you’re comfortable sharing your work in a one-on-one setting. The flexibility to bring your own material and the cost make it a smart choice for those serious about their craft.

Travelers who enjoy literature, storytelling, or simply want a creative boost while visiting New Orleans will find this activity particularly rewarding. The informal, intimate setting and expert guidance can help elevate your writing, inspire new ideas, or simply give you confidence to keep going.

FAQs

How long is the writing class?
The session lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, providing ample time for critique and discussion without feeling rushed.

Where does the activity take place?
It starts at 941 Royal St, New Orleans, in a local coffee shop. The exact location is convenient, near public transportation.

What should I bring?
You can bring your own writing—a story, part of a manuscript, or musings—or email it in advance. Pen and paper are provided if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the session is tailored to your skill level. Whether you’re just starting or an experienced writer, feedback can help you improve.

Who is the instructor?
Stephen Rea, a professional writer and teacher with extensive experience, leads the critique.

Are children or non-writers allowed?
This activity is designed for writers or aspiring writers; non-writers might not find it as engaging or relevant.