the journal: lessons from hosting women’s creative retreats
Hello there soul sister,
Curating out of office creative retreats Vol. 1, 2 and 3 was akin to running a marathon I've been preparing for over the years. These experiences were filled with lessons, growth, and unforeseen challenges, such as navigating the aftermath of a devastating earthquake. Here are 5 key takeaways that might resonate with fellow event planners:
8 lessons learned from running out of office creative retreats
1️⃣ Location, location, location: The venue sets the tone! Spaces holds the energy, make people feel at ease and will foster creativity. Finding exclusive spaces that balance luxury with privacy was crucial for Out of Office Creative Retreats. For our Morocco retreats we landed on the yurts in the serene desert & private riads in the bustling Medina. Pro tip: Always scout before you book – a tip that holds true for productions too!
2️⃣ Be agile: No matter how well you plan, flexibility is key. Allow for wiggle room: from delayed flights to unforeseen events like the earthquake which happened one week before Vol. 1, stay calm and pivot plans in ways that benefit the collective.
3️⃣ Communicate just the right amount: Balance is everything. Participants want enough information without feeling overwhelmed. A dedicated website and a private WhatsApp group provided the perfect hubs for all updates.
4️⃣A: The right people will come: Pour positive energy into planning, marketing, and communication. The right participants will naturally be drawn to your event. It’s really that easy.
4️⃣B: Not everyone should be accepted: Trust your instincts. High-maintenance energy before the retreat likely means high-maintenance during. (Ex. asking for adjustments in the schedule, special conditions etc. ) Politely steering some away ensures a harmonious and positive atmosphere for the collective.
5️⃣ Teamwork makes the dream work: Collaborate with reliable vendors and co-creators. A well-structured team allows you to focus on what you do best while ensuring a seamless experience for all.
6️⃣Have a Crystal-Clear purpose: Ask yourself: Why are you creating this space? Who is it for? These answers should be crystal clear, serving as the foundation to define your purpose, which, in turn, sets the tone for the entire retreat. Your purpose is the guiding light, ensuring that every aspect of the retreat aligns seamlessly with your vision.
7️⃣ Nurture relationships: The heart of any memorable retreat lies in fostering open and meaningful communication with your attendees. Prior to the retreat, I prioritize building connections by holding personalized 1:1 video calls with each candidate. I also make myself available via email or WhatsApp for any questions they may have, which fosters a bespoke connection.
8️⃣ Foster intimacy: Building an intimate atmosphere is the key to forging deep connections among attendees. Before the retreat, I foster this connection by creating a WhatsApp group to connect all participants. We introduce ourselves, share selfie videos, and I provide important information regarding the retreat through the group. During the retreat, I foster intimacy by pulling cards with intimate questions before each creative session. This not only grounds us in the moment but also facilitates vulnerability and connection within the group.
reflections
Hosting creative retreats is more than just logistics and planning. It is about creating a safe space where creativity, connection, and inspiration thrive.
If you’re thinking about hosting your own retreat, I hope these takeaways guide you in crafting an experience that feels just as rewarding and meaningful. And if you’re looking for a space to reconnect with your creativity, I’d love to welcome you to join the sisterhood and attend one of our future retreats.
Until then, keep dreaming, creating, and building the spaces where magic happens.
Blessings, light, and love,
Your friend Sally