A guided space to journal, connect, and evolve.

We host in-person journaling workshops in the Metro Atlanta area.

Writers of all kinds are welcome. Whether you’re new to journaling or experienced, there is a space for you here.

Each workshop is a chance to explore your thoughts, connect with others, and build a consistent practice.

About

This space was created to make journaling more accessible, meaningful, and community-driven. Whether you’re here to build a personal writing habit, process your thoughts, or explore your creative side, our workshops offer a supportive environment to do just that.

Our main series, originally created for people in their 20s and 30s, is now available on Eventbrite and open to all ages. Over the past two years, Pen to Heart has grown into a trusted and welcoming space. Throughout this period, we have hosted more than 75 workshops and earned 125 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 stars. Whether you’re new to journaling or looking to deepen your practice, this series offers a meaningful and empowering experience for everyone.

As the community grows, so will our offerings. Each workshop is tailored to support all the diverse ways people can connect with themselves and others through writing.

Curious what our events are like?

Meet the Organizer

Hi, I’m Aarti, the host and founder of Pen to Heart.

I began journaling more seriously during the pandemic, at a time when I felt deeply disconnected and uncertain about the future. I was still in college trying to figure out who I was, and writing quickly became a grounding force. It gave me a way to stay honest with myself, process what I was going through, and hold on to a sense of identity through a period of isolation and change. Even when I turned to less healthy ways of coping, I always found my way back to the page. Journaling became a quiet, consistent reminder that I could grow through what I was feeling.

In March 2023, I created this group because I was still feeling isolated and craving the kind of conversations I wished existed: ones centered on self-discovery, emotional honesty, and connection. I never expected it to grow into such a meaningful space for so many people. Witnessing the vulnerability, growth, and kindness that unfolds in our workshops has been a constant source of inspiration, and it’s why I continue to hold this space.

As a facilitator, I aim to lead with warmth, curiosity, and care. I listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and do my best to make sure everyone feels seen and valued, while keeping our space grounded in mutual respect. It’s important to me that this community remains both welcoming and safe, even if that means having hard conversations. Everyone’s perspective matters here.

My hope is that when you leave a workshop, you feel a little more in tune with yourself and a little more hopeful about the world around you. Whether you’re navigating a big life change or simply craving connection, this group offers space to explore what’s unfolding inside you, without judgment.

While our original series has traditionally focused on people in their 20s and 30s, as I transition to Eventbrite, I’m now offering these workshops to all ages. Moving forward, I plan to expand our offerings, both in-person and online, to better support and connect with a wider community.

If you’re interested in attending a workshop, I’d love to welcome you in.

Testimonials

  • "Joining Aarti’s journaling group has truly been life-changing. Before I started, journaling was something I always meant to do but never stuck with—now, thanks to Aarti, it’s a daily habit that’s helped me work through some of the most difficult challenges I’ve faced. Her guidance, encouragement, and thoughtful prompts have made journaling not just a practice, but a lifeline."

    - Kiersten

  • "I used to think journaling was just writing about your day, but this group has shown me it can be so much more—especially with the guided prompts. What started as a casual curiosity has turned into a consistent, grounding habit that’s given me an outlet for reflection, creativity, intention-setting, and even healing. If you’re even slightly curious about journaling or looking for a positive space to connect and grow, I can’t recommend this group enough. It’s truly been a gift."

    - Shelly

  • I discovered the journaling club when I had just moved from Turkey to the U.S. At that time, I deeply needed connection—with both people and my own emotions. In the warm, welcoming space Aarti created, I found a place where I could make friends and also give space to my feelings through journaling. Attending regularly helped me reconnect with myself in ways I hadn’t imagined. It became one of the sweetest, most transformative times of my life. After I returned to Turkey, I missed the journaling club deeply. That longing eventually turned into the idea of starting a similar club here.

    - Hatice

  • "The space is just so open and thoughtful, and I’m constantly surprised by how insightful and supportive everyone is. And Aarti, our group leader, is amazing—she asks questions that really make you dig deep and reflect, and she always has something helpful to offer. If you’re thinking about joining, I say try it. I know it can be scary to walk into a room full of strangers, but by the end of the session, I promise we won’t feel like strangers anymore.

    - Maggie

  • "Through the sessions and prompts, I’ve become more in tune with myself and my feelings, learning useful tools to process my experiences. What keeps me coming back is the wonderful group of people who attend, and the guided time and environment Aarti creates to help us process our thoughts and emotions. Aarti does an amazing job fostering this safe space and choosing thoughtful prompts"

    - Lindsay

  • "I’ve been part of it for over a year now, and it has been amazing. I’ve experienced a lot of growth and self-reflection through this space. It’s one place where I can be my authentic self with no judgment. This journaling group has helped me recognize patterns in my emotions and thoughts, which has led to greater self-awareness. One thing that continues to surprise me is the people—especially the creator, Aarti. She is a wonderful human being who truly listens and deeply cares about what you have to say."

    -Ashlee

  • I love the journaling group because it’s a very open, judgment-free zone where everyone can choose their own journey and really run with a prompt however it moves them in the moment. I’ve loved being able to get in touch with my creative side—every time I come to a meeting thinking I have nothing to express, I’m surprised and inspired by how much I actually have to say. All I needed was a piece of paper, a really thoughtful prompt, and an encouraging group of people to write and process alongside.

    - Caroline

  • "Being part of Aarti’s journaling group has been a truly transformative experience. Her warm, inclusive presence creates a space where everyone feels welcome and valued. The prompts she designs are not only thoughtful but also incredibly effective at encouraging deep self-reflection and sparking meaningful, insightful conversations. Through this group, I’ve made lasting friendships and connected with others on a level I never expected."

    - Jenna

  • "This group has been really helpful for me because I never realized how many different ways journaling could be used. It’s opened me up to the versatility of journaling and how helpful it can truly be. The community aspect is also incredibly valuable—you can share thoughts you’ve been holding in and realize you’re not alone. Others feel the same way or are struggling with similar things. It really helps bring perspective."

    - Vandana

  • "The journaling group introduced me to some wonderful people who share both similar interests and values—it’s a safe, compassionate, and supportive community of introspectives. Every session is cathartic; I always feel like I walk away understanding new pieces of myself and those around me. I’ve not only developed a more disciplined habit of journaling, but I’ve also gained several lifelong friends and a community to lean on."

    - Kendall

What Keeps our Writers Coming Back