Hey, retreat leaders (and aspiring ones)! Let’s talk about something that can feel a little sticky but is absolutely crucial to your success: pricing your retreat.

It’s not uncommon to feel a bit of imposter syndrome creeping in when you’re deciding on a price tag for your retreat. Maybe you’re worried about charging “too much” or you’ve convinced yourself that the value you bring isn’t worth a higher cost. But let me tell you something—pricing isn’t just about covering costs; it’s about reflecting the value you’re offering and ensuring your retreat is sustainable for you as the host.

And here’s the kicker: the very first line item on your cost sheet should be your own value and profit.

Let’s dive into why that’s so important and how to set the right price for your retreat.

Start with YOU: The First Line Item

I’ll be real with you: if you’re not prioritizing your own profit, you’re not running a business—you’re running a hobby. And hobbies don’t pay the bills.

As a retreat leader, you’re not just coordinating logistics or picking menus; you’re curating a transformational experience for your guests. That requires your time, energy, creativity, and expertise (and years of experience). Those things are valuable. By placing your own profit as the first line item, you’re honoring the work you do and ensuring your retreat is worth your while.

When you undervalue yourself, it has a ripple effect. You’re more likely to feel drained, stressed, and even resentful about the energy you’re putting in. But when you price appropriately, you create space for abundance—not just for yourself but for your guests as well.

Think of it this way: if you’re thriving, your retreat will thrive.

Calculate Your Costs

Once you’ve established your profit, it’s time to calculate the costs of running your retreat. These include:

• Venue and accommodations: Are you renting a luxury villa or booking a boutique retreat center? Factor in all the costs, including any required deposits, taxes and extras.
• Meals and catering: Will you provide all meals, or will participants have some “on-your-own” time?
• Activities and experiences: Include costs for yoga instructors, guest speakers, excursions, and special events.
• Supplies and materials: Think journals, welcome gifts, and anything else your guests will need.
• Marketing and admin: Don’t forget the behind-the-scenes expenses like ads, software, website updates, Canva, money exchange, etc.

Add all of these up, and don’t forget to give yourself a buffer for unexpected expenses. Once added up, divide by minimum number of guests expected and adjust for variables (private room vs shared, etc).

Reflect the Value, Not Just the Features

Here’s where many retreat leaders get tripped up: pricing based on the features instead of the value.

It’s easy to list out the tangible parts of your retreat: “3 nights at a beachfront resort, daily yoga, and organic meals.” But what’s even more important is the transformation your retreat offers.

Ask yourself:

• What is my guest walking away with?
• How will this retreat impact their life?
• What problems does this retreat solve for them?

For example, instead of focusing on “daily yoga,” highlight how guests will feel deeply rejuvenated and leave with a sense of peace they haven’t felt in years. Instead of “3 nights beachfront,” emphasize the opportunity to disconnect from stress and reconnect with their inner calm.

When you price based on transformation, you attract guests who value what you’re offering—not bargain hunters looking for the cheapest getaway.

Price for Sustainability

Your retreat isn’t a one-time event—it’s part of your business, your brand, and your livelihood. Pricing for sustainability means setting a price that allows you to:

• Cover all costs comfortably.
• Pay yourself a fair profit.
• Invest in future retreats, whether that’s upgrading your offerings, expanding your marketing, or bringing in more support.

If you underprice your retreat, you may fill your spots, but you’ll likely feel the financial pinch later. And let’s be honest—running a retreat is hard work. You deserve to walk away feeling fulfilled, not drained.

Overcoming Pricing Anxiety

I get it—asking someone to pay a premium price can feel intimidating. But remember, you’re not just selling a retreat; you’re offering a life-changing experience.

Here are a few mindset shifts to help:

• Confidence in your value: You’re creating a unique, curated experience. Own it.
• The right guests will see the value: Not everyone is your audience, and that’s okay. Focus on those who are aligned with your offering.
• Investing in yourself inspires others to invest in you: When you prioritize your own growth, education, and well-being, it sets an example for your guests to do the same.

How We Can Help

Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t have to figure this out alone. Our online courses and memberships are designed to guide you through the entire retreat planning process, including pricing strategies that work. We’ll help you calculate costs, showcase the value of your retreat, and feel confident charging what you’re worth.

You’ve got the vision, and we’ve got the tools to make it happen. Let 2025 be the year you create retreats that are profitable, impactful, and aligned with your purpose.

Final Thoughts

Pricing your retreat isn’t just about numbers—it’s about honoring your work, valuing your time, and ensuring your retreat is sustainable for the long haul. When you lead with confidence and clarity, your guests will feel it, and they’ll be excited to invest in the transformation you’re offering.

So start with your own profit, focus on the value, and set the tone for a retreat experience that benefits both you and your guests. You’ve got this, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Here’s to retreats that change lives—including your own.