Pricing with Integrity: Why Retreat Leaders Shouldn’t Discount (and What to Do Instead)

Retreat Planning Tips

Shannon Jamail

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Shannon Jamail

She is a best-selling author, podcast host, retreat leader, therapist turned mentor, Yoga Teacher trainer, and tequila connoisseur (not really, but she does enjoy sipping on a good pour).

Alright, retreat leaders—let’s have a heart-to-heart about something that comes up every single time I work with someone launching a retreat:

Pricing. And that sneaky temptation to discount it.

I get it.
You want to fill spots.
You want to help people.
You want to make sure all your hard work doesn’t go to waste.

And when the early bird period is dragging or you have a few empty rooms left, it feels so tempting to slap a discount on your retreat and hope it pulls people in.

But here’s the thing: discounting your retreat pricing hurts your brand, your experience, and your integrity more than it helps your bookings.
And today, I’m going to walk you through why—and what you can do instead.

Why You Shouldn’t Discount Your Retreat Price

First and most importantly:
Discounting devalues the experience you worked so hard to create.

When you drop your price, it sends an unspoken message to potential guests:

  • “Maybe it wasn’t worth that full price after all.”
  • “Maybe I should wait for a sale next time too.”
  • “Maybe it’s not filling up because it’s not that good?”

Yikes. Not the energy you want around your transformational retreat, right?

Plus, think about the guests who already paid full price. If they see a last-minute fire sale, it doesn’t feel good. It makes them question their decision. It can even create resentment or doubt about the value of the experience before they even show up.

Retreats are about sacred energy, community, and trust. Discounting can fracture that before it even starts.

But Shannon—what if I have a few spots left and I really need to fill them?

Good question.
You don’t lower your price—you add value instead.

Here’s how:

What to Offer Instead of Discounts

1. Add Bonuses
Instead of cutting the price, add in something special for a limited time:

  • A free private coaching session during the retreat
  • A personalized welcome package (journal, candle, curated goodies)
  • Early check-in or late checkout
  • A bonus workshop, excursion, or class

Example:
“Sign up by [date] and receive a bonus 1:1 intention-setting session with me during the retreat!”

2. Include Extras
Sometimes it’s just about sweetening the pot:

  • Free spa treatment or massage
  • Extra night’s stay included
  • Complimentary airport transfer
  • Special group excursion

Example:
“Last 2 spots! Book now and enjoy a complimentary massage during your retreat experience!”

3. Create Limited-Time Packages
Instead of discounting the retreat itself, bundle something around it:

  • A retreat + post-retreat 30-day coaching support package
  • Retreat + custom meal plan or health consultation afterward
  • Retreat + free ticket to your next mini-retreat or event

Example:
“Join this retreat and get free access to our upcoming ‘Recharge at Home’ online workshop series after you return!”

Why This Works

  • You keep the integrity of your original pricing.
  • You reward action-takers without punishing early payers.
  • You elevate the experience for everyone—not cheapen it.
  • You set the tone that what you offer is valuable and worth the investment.

A Few Bonus Examples by Retreat Type

Wellness Retreat:
Instead of $200 off…
“Get a bonus Reiki session and a custom aromatherapy blend to take home!”

Business Retreat:
Instead of a last-minute sale…
“Enroll now and get a private 1:1 business strategy session valued at $300 included!”

Adventure Retreat:
Instead of slashing prices…
“Reserve your spot and enjoy a free private guided hike or horseback ride during your stay!”

Yoga/Meditation Retreat:
Instead of early bird discounts…
“Book during early enrollment and receive a personalized yoga mat and tote bag waiting for you when you arrive!”

Final Thoughts: Stand in Your Worth, Lead with Integrity

Your retreat isn’t some clearance aisle item. It’s a transformational, life-changing experience.
Price it that way.
Market it that way.
Honor it that way.

When you stand strong in the value of what you’ve created, your guests will feel that energy. They’ll trust it. And the ones who are meant to come will rise to meet you there—full price, full energy, fully aligned.

No fire sales needed. 
No discounts.
Just value, integrity, and transformational experiences that sell themselves.

You’ve got this. And I’m cheering for you every step of the way. 

With love (and zero discounts),
Shannon Jamail
Retreat Leader Mentor | Pricing Integrity Enthusiast | Space Holder for Big Dreams

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