The Historic Costuming Retreat
with Rachel Maksy
September 24-27, 2026 | Cummington, MA
SOLD OUT.
Please scroll for more details and the cancellation list sign up.
There are images that feel less like photographs and more like artifacts, as though they always existed, waiting to be found.
This retreat is built around three of history's most luminous artistic visions: the symbolism of the Tarot, the ornate beauty of Alphonse Mucha, and the soft, soul-bearing portraiture of Julia Margaret Cameron.
For one long weekend in the Massachusetts countryside, we step inside them.
Join Liza Roberts and Rachel Maksy for four days of historic costuming, painterly portraits, and the particular magic that happens when creative people find each other.
Your Co-Host, Rachel Maksy
Rachel Maksy is a beloved YouTuber, cosplayer, floor troll, and purveyor of all things whimsical. Liza is delighted to have her both as a dear friend and a co-host for this retreat!
You can see Rachel's work at the links below.
The Shoots
Three shoots over the weekend — each one themed for a different historical artist or art form.
The Weekend Flow
A very loose agenda
Thursday evening you arrive in Cummington and meet your fellow travelers. There is something particular about the first night of a retreat...the careful introductions, the gradual realization that you have found your people.
Friday and Saturday are full of activities: costuming, photoshoots, workshops, shared meals, and the unhurried pleasure of spending time with people who care about the same things you do.
Rachel and Liza will have a Q&A session sharing their knowledge of costuming, photography, and the art of dressing for a character. Liza will photograph each attendee with the individual attention and care that has made her retreats beloved for nine years.
Sunday morning you pack your bags. You will not want to leave.
About the Location
The Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts is one of New England's most quietly extraordinary places. Rolling hills, old farmhouses, forests that feel like they belong to another century. It is the kind of landscape that makes historic costuming feel not like dress-up but like coming home.
SOLD OUT -
Thank you!
Thank you! If you wish to add your name to the cancellations list, please submit the form.
Liza
Roberts