From Church Basements to the Boardwalk: Celebrating 20 Years of Scrap Away Get Away

Twenty years ago, a small group of crafters gathered in a local church for a one-day “crop” to raise money for a food pantry. The energy was so infectious, and the participants so reluctant to leave, that founders Charrise and Lila realized they had tapped into something special.

That single day of crafting blossomed into Scrap Away Get Away, an annual weekend-long retreat that has become the “cream of the crop” for memory-keepers across the region. As they celebrate their 20th anniversary, the event stands as a testament to the power of community, nostalgia, and giving back.

A Legacy at The Flanders Hotel

While the event’s first full weekend kicked off at Renault Winery with 75 guests, it quickly outgrew the space. For the past 19 consecutive years, the historic Flanders Hotel in Ocean City has served as the event’s home.

“The staff at The Flanders are outstanding,” the founders noted. “With delicious meals, beautiful rooms, and ample space, it’s the perfect shore location.” This year, the hotel will once again fill with the sound of laughter, clicking punches, and the rustle of patterned paper.

Tradition, Themes, and Philanthropy

What sets Scrap Away Get Away apart is its blend of structured tradition and creative flair:

• The Kickoff: Every year begins with a Friday night wine and cheese reception.

• The Saturday Shop: The event opens its doors to outside shoppers, allowing friends and family to browse vendor booths and join the fun.

• Theme Night: Saturday evening is the weekend’s crown jewel. Attendees dress up according to an annual theme to compete for prizes and enjoy group activities.

Beyond the stickers and stamps, the heart of the event is its incredible philanthropic reach. Over the last two decades, this community of “scrappers” has raised and donated over $60,000 to Atlantic County charities. Past beneficiaries include Avanzar (formerly the Atlantic County Women’s Center) and The Military Support Group of New Jersey.

Giving Back in 2026: This year, all proceeds and donations will benefit the Atlantic County 4-H, continuing the tradition of supporting local youth and community programs.

More Than Just a Hobby

To the organizers and the attendees—many of whom have attended since the very beginning—scrapbooking is about more than just photos on a page.

“Scrapbooking reminds us that life has been good,” says Charrise. “It’s a way to preserve memories for future generations. The community is what I call family; it’s an excuse to see friends we might only see once a year.”

Joining the “Family”

If you’re looking to join this elite group of crafters, you’ll need to move fast. Scrap Away Get Away is famous for its high demand: registration typically opens in early September and sells out within a staggering 15 minutes.

The weekend is a true “all-inclusive” experience for makers, featuring:

• On-site vendors and specialized classes.

• Relaxing massages to soothe “crafter’s shoulder.”

• High-quality attendance gifts and door prizes.

• Ample space for both physical and digital scrapbooking.

Looking Ahead

As the 20th anniversary celebrations wrap up, eyes are already turning toward the future. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a young newcomer, the message from Charrise and Lila is clear: inspiration is everywhere, and there is always room for a new face in the family.

For information regarding the 2027 event and future registration dates, visit www.ScrapAwayGetAway.com.