There’s something magical that happens when you bring a group of like-hearted humans together for a shared purpose. Not just to relax, reset, or sip wine under the stars—but to truly connect.

I recently traveled to France to teach a series of workshops to retreat leaders from around the globe—and while I went to share my knowledge (and maybe indulge in a little champagne and cheese), I ended up learning just as much as I taught. Maybe even more!

Because here’s the truth: Building a successful retreat isn’t just about the itinerary or the pretty photos. It’s about the community you cultivate—and the connection you create.

France, Champagne & Unexpected Lessons

I went to France excited to speak on growing profitable, purposeful retreats. And trust me, those conversations happened. But what hit me even harder was what happened in the in-between moments.

The quiet connections over breakfast. The shared laughs in a cobblestone courtyard. The late-night chats with other leaders navigating the same highs and lows.

It reminded me of why I started doing this work in the first place.

Not for the perfect poses or luxury linens (though those things are nice).
Not to be the “guru” with all the answers.
But to build a space—no, a movement—where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to step into their purpose. That’s what building a community is all about.

And guess what? That same power of connection applies to every single retreat you run.

Retreats Are Relationship-Builders

Here’s what I see over and over again with my retreat clients and attendees: the most powerful transformations happen not just from the workshops, yoga, or journaling sessions—but from the people they meet and the relationships they build.

The woman who finally cried in front of someone.
The group that stayed up laughing until 2AM.
The strangers who showed up alone and left as lifelong friends.

That’s the magic of retreats. And it’s also why connection and building a community need to be part of your intentional planning—not just a happy accident.

Connection Starts with You, the Leader

As a retreat leader, your job isn’t to be the star of the show—it’s to create the container for connection to happen.

It means:

• Being approachable, not performative
• Giving people space to bond without you always leading the conversation
• Encouraging vulnerability by modeling it yourself
• Planning activities that spark real conversations, not just surface-level stuff

One thing I’ve learned? You don’t have to entertain or impress. In fact, when you get out of the way a little, deeper bonds happen. At one of my retreats, I used to think I had to fill every moment. Now I know better—quiet time, shared meals, and even unstructured walks can be the most bonding parts of the whole thing.

Networking Isn’t Sleazy—It’s Sacred

Now let’s talk about the business side of this.

When I was in France, I met so many incredible people in the retreat space—venue owners, facilitators, coaches, creatives. Every conversation was a seed planted. A potential collaboration. A future partnership.

And guess what? That’s networking.

Not the awkward “networking events” we all hate. But real-deal connection with aligned people who are on the same path.

Whether you’re hosting your own retreats or attending others, be open to the people around you. You never know who might be your next:

• Co-host
• Collaborator
• Guest speaker
• Marketing partner
• Lifelong friend

Your Community = Your Currency

If you’re trying to grow your retreat biz (or really any purpose-driven business), remember this:

Community is currency.

You can have a great website. A killer Instagram. Even a waitlist.
But without people to cheer you on, support you, and share your work—it’s gonna be a lonely (and limited) ride.

Build relationships first. Show up generously. Stay in integrity.

Because when you build community, you build momentum.

Final Thought: Don’t Go It Alone

If you’re feeling like you’re doing this retreat thing solo—stop. You don’t have to.

Whether it’s joining our community of retreat leaders, showing up to an in-person mastermind, or simply sending a DM to someone you admire—reach out.

Build your circle. Nurture your connections.
And never underestimate the power of one real conversation to change everything.

Here’s to leading with heart, hosting with intention, and creating community that lasts far beyond the final bonfire.

With gratitude and connection,
Shannon