Wild Abundance Reviews & Testimonials
At Wild Abundance, we believe that learning practical, hands-on skills can be life-changing—and our students agree. Whether you’re here to explore sustainable living, learn carpentry, build a tiny house, or grow your own food, you’ll find that our classes are grounded in knowledge, empowerment, and community. This page brings together real Wild Abundance reviews and testimonials from students who have taken our online and in-person courses, so you can hear directly from those who’ve experienced what we offer.
What Our Students Say About Wild Abundance
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Tonika
Baltimore, MD
Program Director
Course Taken:
“Learning at Wild Abundance has been extraordinarily empowering and exciting.”
Bill
Connecticut
Sales
Course Taken:
“The community and friendships that formed here with our group have been, no exaggeration, life changing. If you’re thinking about taking a class with Wild Abundance, I couldn’t recommend it more.”
Monica
North Carolina
Lawyer
Course Taken:
“What I enjoyed the most was the depth of knowledge and the patience of the instructors. They are constantly answering our questions no matter how simple or complex.”
Justine
Asheville, NC
Home Renovator
Course Taken:
“I am so grateful to have found a woman-led organization in my community where I can learn building skills in an empowering and supportive environment. Don’t think twice—sign up for that class you keep checking out. You won’t regret it!”
Nikita Lukichev
Machinist
Nevada
Course Taken:
“Natalie is a phenomenal teacher, host, and land steward!!! I recommend taking any and all of her courses if you can! The team around her reflects her leadership and passion at every step, and her supporting network is a testament to the lasting relationship she clearly builds with her community. Thankful for a truly awesome experience in every way!”
What Our Women’s Carpentry Students Say
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Leslie
Virginia
College Worker
Course Taken:
“I came here with absolutely no experience—I had never touched a power tool—and yet this was the most affirming and supportive environment I’ve ever experienced. Thank you, Wild Abundance. I will always remember this.”
Anne
Staten Island, NY
Retired Nurse Practitioner
Course Taken:
“This class had a fabulous atmosphere and was a supportive learning experience. Turns out I’ve been using tools wrong for many decades…I was so thankful to have someone look at what I was doing and give me expert instruction. I learned an enormous amount and will be forever grateful for this opportunity. “
Deanna
Virginia
Massage Therapist and Mother
Course Taken:
“I’m a stay-at-home-mom and massage therapist, so using my hands is something I’m really proud of. To be able to use the skills I picked up at Wild Abundance is something I’ll remember forever. If you’re thinking about it, go for it. It’s wonderful time. Life changing, in fact.”
Sally
Goose Creek, SC
Retired
Course Taken:
“My sister and I took the basic carpentry class together—like some of the other students, we’re in our 70’s! We were welcomed into a community of resilient, independent, and caring women. We got to know ladies from different states and countries. We worked hard and learned skills that we took home to perfect. It was one of the most satisfying experiences! I will no longer fear power tools… although I’ll always respect them. I wish I’d taken this class earlier in my life!”
Janie
Nashville, TN
Clinical Mental Health Therapist
Course Taken:
“The Women’s Basic Carpentry Class was a phenomenal experience. Never have I been in such a welcoming and affirming space for people of all experience levels—most of us absolute beginners. I learned an incredible amount of skills in only four days, and most importantly, I came away confident to engage immediately in building projects using power tools on my own.”
Julia
Colorado
Marketing Director
Course Taken:
“The thing that I’m most thankful about with my experience at Wild Abundance is that it has opened up a whole new world to me through learning a new language, a language of tools, of wood, of carpentry, and of building. Equipped with this new language, I can learn how to build, I can read plans, I can go to the hardware store.”
Charis
Virginia
Insurance IT Systems Integrations
Course Taken:
“I’m usually sitting at a desk and it was amazing to work with my hands. I have gained the confidence I need to actually do the projects I want to do.”
Jeanne
Georgia
Project Manager
Course Taken:
“The thing I enjoyed most about this class was getting to learn from people who are highly skilled… Now I feel a lot of confidence that I can go home and build another project, solve household problems, and really tackle anything!”
What Our Tiny House Students Say
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Monica
North Carolina
Lawyer
Course Taken:
“The thing I enjoyed the most about the tiny house course was the depth of knowledge and the patience of the instructors. They are constantly answering our questions no matter how simple or complex. They have a wealth of knowledge about the best resources and brands and different building materials. And they also gave references and resources when we wanted to deepen our knowledge in the area.”
Bryan
New York
Digital Health Products Developer
Course Taken:
“When I learned to build my own furniture, it brought an immense amount of joy that sometimes computer work doesn’t bring, and so I figured, ‘Man, if I could do that for a whole house, that would be wild!’ In the Tiny House Building Workshop, I went from zero to sixty really quick; it was a huge accelerator. “
Jessie
Connecticut
Accountant
Course Taken:
“If I had to choose one word to describe how I felt after spending a week and a half at Wild Abundance taking the Tiny House Building class I would say, ’empowered’. I felt confident during each part of the build because of the amazing instruction and guidance provided. I highly recommend this course to anyone who wishes to gain or strengthen their building knowledge or experience—you won’t regret it!”
Bill
Connecticut
Sales
Course Taken:
“The Tiny House Building Workshop really gave me the confidence to go home and start the project I’ve had floating around in my mind for a while. Besides that, the community and friendships that formed here with our group have been, no exaggeration, life changing. If you’re thinking about doing this, I couldn’t recommend it more.”
Tonika
Baltimore, MD
Program Director
Course Taken:
“I’m the Program Manager for Black Women Build Baltimore (founded by a black woman carpenter) and I help women prepare to purchase and renovate affordable homes. I came to the Tiny House Building Workshop to learn as much as I can about building. It’s been extraordinarily empowering and exciting.”
Scott
New Orleans
Coffee Shop Owner
Course Taken:
“Wild Abundance was an amazing experience! After the class, we plan to remodel the bedroom, the bathrooms, and build a few tiny cabins.”
Sarah
North Carolina
Photographer
Course Taken:
“I loved the opportunity to get to dip into so many different skills and techniques. It gave me insight into which things I feel confident I can take on myself, and which things like electrical or plumbing that I might decide to contract out. The class is very team-based and so it feels very inviting and relaxing to be a learner here.”
Honey
World Traveler
Massage Therapist
Course Taken:
“I’m so satisfied with my decision to take the Tiny Home Workshop at Wild Abundance this year. The culture of building is complex and rich, and even though my dad is a General Contractor, it never felt accessible to me until I took this building class. I’m grateful to have connected with such knowledgeable and patient teachers who are so willing to share their extensive experience and kindness.”
Samantha
Chicago, IL
Therapist
Course Taken:
“I came with no prior experience, scared to hang a picture on my wall, and now I am so much more confident. I just love the instructional videos and the teachers are very open, really cool and personable, very easy to understand, and very welcoming.”
Dan
North Carolina
Store Manager
Course Taken:
“I can’t count how many times I have had “AHA” moments during the Tiny House Academy… and the humor included is such a welcome bonus. The live Q&A sessions, and the fact that you can always return to these videos for reference, makes this learning system invaluable.”
Dare
California
Farmer, Chef, Activist, and Natural Builder
Course Taken:
“Oh my gosh, this is the tiny home building class I’ve been waiting for my whole life! The design parts are there, how to read plans, all the carpentry, how to use basic tools, and especially the stuff that people who have been doing this a long time don’t even think to explain, like how to properly read a tape measure. It’s really important that Wild Abundance took the time to make carpentry so accessible.”
Josh
Mississippi
Real Estate Broker
Course Taken:
“I took the Tiny House Academy because I’m in real estate but am not very handy. The class was extremely thorough and easy to follow. I feel ten times more confident now!”
April
Iowa
Home Health Provider
Course Taken:
“I love the online videos! It’s so helpful to go through step-by-step and learn tools I didn’t know how to use, and how to use them correctly. These lessons have been instrumental for me right now because they’re meeting me where I’m at in terms of learning to build.”
What Our Students of Other Carpentry Programs Say
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Hayden
Asheville
Composer
Course Taken:
“When I came to Wild Abundance, I had no experience with power tools other than a drill. I didn’t even know what an impact driver was. And now I’m using one multiple times a week, plus saws and other power tools. My goal is to eventually build a house and I know this is doable now. The apprenticeship has been a jumping off point for being able to do pretty much whatever I want.”
Justine
Asheville
Home Rennovator
Course Taken:
“Since my time at Wild Abundance as a carpentry apprentice, my skill level and confidence has increased tenfold, as well as my ability to problem solve and come up with solutions. I am so grateful to have found a woman-led organization in my community where I can learn building skills in an empowering and supportive environment. Don’t think twice—sign up for that class you keep checking out. You won’t regret it!”
Beryl
Vagabond and Traveler
Course Taken:
“As a woman, I was really scared to enter spaces like this because I had very little knowledge, but Wild Abundance is so woman-centric and welcoming, I decided I was going to drive across the country and come here. I feel so excited to learn and express myself here.”
Roy
Asheville
SEO Strategist
Course Taken:
“I came here to gain confidence and knowledge and the ability to be safe with these things, and I got a lot more than that. I have this sense of autonomous-ness now where I can take an idea in the mental space and turn it into something physical. That’s been really cool to be able to create.. It’s been pretty transformational.”
Glen
Swannanoa
Course Taken:
“Anybody can do this– you just have to take the time to learn. When we did the tiny home I realized It’s not as hard as you think, once you have the knowledge. I’m going to build a small deck for our backyard and I know I can do it. Wild Abundance is a very supportive place to be. Everybody was so nice and so welcoming and it was just a really good crew to work with.”
Lee
New York
Operations Manager
Course Taken:
“I learned so much from start to finish—from tool use, to different layout options, to knowledge about wood and actual timber. We got to see a sawmill in use right here on this amazing property, plus we experienced a full timber-framed barn as our classroom. All of our instructors were absolutely amazing and I really appreciated the level of thought put into the care of us students.”
Thomas
North Carolina
Filmmaker
Course Taken:
“I cannot recommend this timber frame workshop enough. Wild Abundance provided a welcoming environment regardless of prior experience and the entire Ivy Creek Timber Frames team was courteous, approachable, and deeply knowledgeable in their craft. As someone looking to grow in my knowledge of joinery and hand tool use, I felt like there was no question they left unanswered.”
Alyse
New York
Operations Manager
Course Taken:
“I had a wonderfully fulfilling experience with Wild Abundance and the Timber Framing Class. That the class was hands-on and active, and that I was able to ask questions without judgment really enabled me to get the most out of the learning experience. I would highly recommend Wild Abundance, no matter your skill level, as there is always something new to experience! “
TC
Arizona
Poet Laureate
Course Taken:
“I especially loved being in a timber framing class that emphasized collaboration, asking questions, and taking the time needed to understand techniques. As a trans person, I also loved seeing healthy masculinity modeled by male teachers who were comfortable getting feedback from each other and from the attendees.”
Issac
North Carolina
Engineer
Course Taken:
“I strongly recommend this course with Ivy Creek Timber Frames if you’re interested in stepping away from the virtual rat race for a bit and experiencing the reality of building a solid timber frame structure.”
What Our Permaculture, Earth Skills & Rewilding Students Say
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Genevive
Asheville, North Carolina
Small Business Owner
Course Taken:
“I can think of no better way of learning to care for the soil, grow food, and be a better steward of my small piece of land than joining this apprenticeship. In class, we worked with the land for almost a year, following many annuals from seed to harvest and caring for the perennials. Gardening classes are easy to find, but there’s no substitute for hands in the soil in the same climate. I’m so fortunate to have found Wild Abundance!”
Margaret
Canton, North Carolina
Part-Time Public Health Program Coordinator & Stay-At-Home Mom
Course Taken:
“It’s hard to capture in words just how amazing this long-term apprenticeship was and how grateful and fortunate I feel to have participated. It’s hard to find an in-person community these days, so I especially enjoyed the company!”
Rachel
Course Taken:
“I liked the people so much—everybody, the students, the teachers, everything we did. I really enjoyed the personal aspect of it. I’m also grateful I got in! The class was full when I found it; thank goodness for the waitlist.”
Amy
Course Taken:
“I’m so grateful for the people that I met and the relationships that I built. Good people all around. The environment is all outdoors and beautiful; it really highlights an alternative way of life. It is wonderful to see and it is deeply inspiring.”
Linda
Asheville, NC
Facilitator
Course Taken:
“ It was such a pleasure to be in Wild Abundance’s outdoor space for the garden apprenticeship. Not only did I make friends, but I learned how to tend a garden from start to finish: from seed to soil, how to take care of it, how to winterize crops and save seeds for next year. I also learned how to tend perennial trees and berries. I’m coming out of it feeling confident that I can start many different garden projects on my own.”
Rosie
Florida
Mom and Community Organizer
Course Taken:
“Taking the Permaculture Design Course opened my mind drastically. The knowledge I gained will benefit my family, community, and myself tremendously. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Nathan
Louisiana
Tax Preparer
Course Taken:
“Not only will you learn all about permaculture, but you will be immersed in a new way of being that shows how we can live according to these principles. It’s not geared towards any one type of person or any experience level. All you need is the desire to learn about permaculture and the fortitude to make it through an intense program that is fun and will give you so many new tools to face life and start a farm, garden, or homestead.”
Dean
North Carolina
Retired Mail Carrier
Course Taken:
“I thoroughly enjoyed this course. The teaching was extensive, and from very knowledgeable instructors: some of the leading figures in the permaculture movement. I highly recommend it.”
Kyle
North Carolina
Course Taken:
“The Permaculture Design Course through Wild Abundance was a deeply enriching experience for me. The instructors’ knowledge in all areas of the course were vast and inspiring. Upon completion, I felt challenged and intrigued, looking to create as many positive relationships and changes in my life as physically possible.”
Cedar
Minnesota
Course Taken:
“This immersive experience showed me what a functional, dynamic community looks like between humans, plants, animals, soil, etc.”
Scott
Weaverville, NC
Course Taken:
“This course was a life changing experience. I went in with the expectation of learning how to group plants. I left with a heart that had been ripped open with love and a drive to build community like I never thought possible. I’d repeat this class in a heartbeat.”
Caitlin
Santa Clara, CA
Working Mom
Course Taken:
“I had been dabbling in backyard gardening for a few years before this class found me at the perfect time. Learning from Chloe and Natalie is like having a friend/garden guru who is there whenever you need them. I LOVE THIS CLASS!”
Andy
Asheville, NC
Documentary Film Company Senior Impact Coordinator
Course Taken:
“I feel like one year gardening with the Online Gardening School was comparable to probably a dozen years learning just by trial and error. I can’t recommend this class enough!”
Amrit
Bay Area, CA
Education Administrator
Course Taken:
“I love that I have access to the Online Gardening School course content for life. As a working mom, my schedule doesn’t always allow for consistent engagement with gardening. Chloe and Natalie have created a judgment-free zone where no question is a bad one and everyone’s experience and success is celebrated.”
Holley
Knoxville, TN
Outdoor Educator
Course Taken:
“The Online Gardening School is so helpful, personal, and wonderfully informal. I use the videos almost like I use my gardening reference books; constantly referring back to them for fresh ideas and guidance. Chloe and Natalie’s lessons are empowering, and they inspire me to grow and try new things!”
Share Your Experience or Explore Our Classes
From beginners who’ve never picked up a power tool to seasoned gardeners looking to deepen their skills, students consistently share how Wild Abundance courses have exceeded their expectations. If you’re considering joining us for a class, we hope you enjoyed browsing these Wild Abundance reviews and seeing how our courses have made a lasting impact on people from all walks of life.
Have you taken a class with us? We’d love to hear from you! Your feedback helps us grow and lets others know what to expect when they join the Wild Abundance community. If you’d like to submit a testimonial or review, please contact us here.
Still deciding which course is right for you? Take a look at our full list of offerings, from tiny house building and carpentry for women and gender-diverse folks to gardening, permaculture, and more. These Wild Abundance reviews are just a glimpse into the supportive and skill-building experience that awaits.
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