FAQ

How, When, and Where do I register…and How Much will it cost?

Registration is now open! Be sure to sign up for our Mailing List (below) to receive updates. Check out our Family Rates or choose *per person* at “Early Bird,” “Standard,” or “Last-Minute” Registrations (see fee schedule on our Registration page).

I am having trouble registering, where can I get assistance?

Feel free to contact us with all your registration and conference questions—we’re happy to help!

Do you offer refunds?
We are unable to offer refunds, however, we will accept ticket transfers. There is a Ticket transfer fee of $25 per ticket (can be split by both parties).

How do I transfer my tickets?
Ticket transfers will be handled by HCC staff. We will need information from both parties before making the transfer. To inquire about transfers send an email to julie@tentoad.com.

What is the special conference pricing for the Hotel, and how do I get it?

Option One: $185/night – includes breakfast buffet. Rates apply for both King rooms (one king bed, 4 people) and Queen rooms (2 queen beds, 5 people).

Option Two: $239/night – includes buffet lunch for 4 (+$20 for 5)

If your family can be comfortably accommodated, we encourage you to make a reservation for a King Room. There are a limited number of Queen Rooms for larger families…thank you! If you have any questions about your reservation, please contact Clara at the Marriott.

Can we bring extra bedding (air beds, sleeping bags/pads, cots, etc.)?

Our Conference hotel has both King and Queen/Queen rooms. According to the Fire Marshall, the King rooms can occupy up to 4 people and the rooms with 2 Queen beds can occupy up to 5 people. These rooms have the beds described plus a small settee-style couch (not a pull-out sofa). The hotel has a few rollaway beds, but we anticipate families will need to get creative. Many seasoned conference-goers are familiar with these preparations as most hotels are geared towards business travelers and not large families. We strongly suggest that you make your reservations early. We recommend bringing extra pillows, bedding, air beds, sleeping pads/mats, etc. to ensure you have enough comfortable space for your family to sleep.

Can we bring our RV and/or go camping nearby?

YES! We have seven RV Spots for families to park ON-SITE (no hookups). To reserve your spot, please see the Conference Registration Form for RV tickets.

Other RV/Camping Options:

What are the Food Options?

Food and Beverages are available at Starbucks in the Hotel Lobby and the 555 Lounge & Bar. The Starting Gate Restaurant is open in the mornings for a full-menu breakfast. Your hotel room includes a continental breakfast buffet with hot food options. You can also upgrade your reservation to include a Lunch Buffet for your family up to 5 (you’ll need to choose this special reservation option when you book your hotel room). Some beverages and light snacks are available for purchase at the front desk.

There is a nearby pizza restaurant that delivers to the hotel plus several other local food options in quick walking distance or available via Uber Eats, Door Dash, etc.

**The hotel policy is no outside food or beverages in the public areas of the hotel, however, outside food and drink can be enjoyed in your room. Please be mindful of this as you make your arrangements.** Water is available in every conference room.

*Refrigerators in every room for families who wish to bring their own provisions*

There are many other fantastic food and beverage options a short drive away. This area is home to many fine wineries and microbreweries. Solvang, the Danish settlement, is only 3 miles away with its world-famous bakeries and restaurants. (Craving Paleo Cuisine? Check out Nosh Paleo Cafe, owned and operated by Homeschoolers!)

What do I wear?

Be prepared to make yourself comfortable in any setting! Bring layers…a sweater for air-conditioned conference rooms, a swimsuit for the pool, and everything in between! You may want to dress up for the dance or teen events. There is a lot of outdoor space at this hotel, and we are only a few miles from the sea, so pack accordingly.

Cosplays? You bet.

Please wear shoes in public areas of the hotel.

What do I bring?

Bring the kids 😂
This is a FAMILY Conference with fun for all your homeschool kin!

You may also wish to bring:

  • Musical Instruments

  • Board Games

  • RPG Dice, Dice Tray & Character Sheets

  • Video Games (byo your personal gaming systems, there will be Nintendo Switch and VR to use in the Video Gaming Lounge)

  • Laptops and drawing tablets to use in the Visual Arts Room

  • Nerf Weapons and Darts (labeled)

  • Yoga Mat

  • Art Supplies (no acrylic or oil-based paints, NO GLITTER, please)

  • Fiber Arts Supplies, i.e., Knitting needles or your favorite crochet hook, yarn, felting supplies, etc.

  • Personal Water Bottles

  • Bathing suits for the pool and hot tub

  • Gently Used Curriculum and Resources to sell or give away

  • Crafts to sell at the Craft Faire

  • Fun Outfits for the Teen Dance (theme TBA)

  • Open Heart, Open Mind ❤️

We strongly suggest all your items be labeled in case they are misplaced. While there will be a lost and found area to help reunite you with your gear, the Conference is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

What are the additional apps and internet services HCC will be using?

Discord: Find our Discord Channel here.
Facebook: Find our Facebook Group here.
Whova: The link to join our event will be sent to all registered attendees.

What is your COVID policy?

HCC leaves the decision to vaccinate and/or use masks up to the discretion of individuals and families. All are welcome. We will never ask for your personal medical information, and we will never require proof of vaccination to attend the conference or any Ten Toad events.