Not every woman got to take a beach vacation this winter, but St. John’s Lutheran Church is bringing a little of that experience to Austin next week.

Stephanie Miller, a nine-year member of St. John’s, is helping organize the sixth annual spring women’s retreat. This year’s theme is Seaside Escape.

“The theme revolves around going to the beach and just having a time to get away from the hectic lifestyle we all have these days,” Miller said.

Seaside Escape women’s retreat begins 6:30 p.m. Friday, March 16, and continues from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 17.

To Miller, the retreat is a way to get to know people in her church on a more personal level.

“A lot of times you go to church on Sunday morning and hurry home to do lunch or whatever, and you don’t really get to interact and know one another,” she said.

For $25 per woman, the retreat offers a variety of experiences. Along with the church being decorated, guests will participate in seven different events ranging from a worship service, bible studies and a mission project to simple games and mingling. Acclaim Studio of Dance performers will treat the women to a show near the end. Then Miller will provide a gift; however, those who want to know what that is will have to attend.

Miller says the retreat accomplishes three goals: fellowship among the women, a better understanding of God and strength within the community, because the retreat is open to the public. And those three things combined could offer some women peace of mind and a chance to relax for the weekend.

“I think it helps you look at your life in a new perspective every year,” Miller said. “The theme is to just take time, slow down your life a little bit.”

Miller expects about 35 women to attend, but she said there is room for more, as there are plenty of materials. Though the event is meant for women, infants are welcome, as well.