Hey hey, retreat leaders! Shannon Jamail here – and today we’re diving into one of the questions I get all the time:

“What exactly is a retreat business… and how does it actually work?”

Because here’s the thing:
A lot of people think running a retreat business just means renting a pretty villa, posting a few dreamy photos on Instagram, and waiting for the sign‑ups to roll in.

(Spoiler alert: it doesn’t work like that.)

A retreat business is a full‑on, multi‑layered, soul‑driven business model – and when done right, it can be one of the most fulfilling (and profitable) ventures out there.

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Retreat Business?

A retreat business is a structured, repeatable model for creating and hosting immersive experiences that transform lives – while also generating income for you as the facilitator.

Whether you’re teaching yoga, leadership, painting, or mindset, the common thread is that you’re designing intentional, results‑driven experiences.

And yes, it’s a business.
That means it should make money, have systems, and allow you to grow – not just “break even” and hope for the best.

A retreat business can take on different forms, but the goal is always the same: to create meaningful transformation and financial sustainability.

The Business Model: How It Really Works

So how do retreat businesses make money?
Let’s talk revenue streams – because if you want to make this your career (not just your hobby), you’ve got to know where the profit comes from.

➤ Retreat Registrations

This is your core revenue stream (or one of) – what participants pay to attend.
It covers expenses (lodging, food, activities) plus your profit margin.

Pro tip: Price for profit, not just to “cover costs.”

If your goal is $10K profit per retreat and you’re hosting 10 people, that’s $1K profit per person on top of costs. Don’t skip this math. And this is not what you pay yourself, that is part of your overall expenses.  I have had Erin B. Haag on my podcast talking about this before. 

➤ Upsells & Add‑Ons

Think: private coaching sessions, massage appointments, VIP upgrades, pre‑ or post‑retreat programs, or branded products (like journals, candles, or merch).

These not only enhance the guest experience but also increase your revenue – without needing more attendees.

Example:
At Retreat Ranch, we often offer horse yoga, sound baths, and private coaching add‑ons. Guests love the personalization – and it adds beautiful, aligned profit.

➤ Partnerships & Sponsorships

You can also monetize through collaborations – with brands, local vendors, or other facilitators.

For example:

• A wellness retreat might partner with a skincare brand for sponsored products.
• A business mastermind might bring in guest experts who cross‑promote the event.
• A venue partnership can include co‑marketing and affiliate opportunities.

Partnerships = exposure + added value + less financial risk.

The Different Types of Retreat Businesses

Not all retreats are created equal – and that’s a good thing. Here are the most common retreat business types and how they operate:

➤ Wellness Retreats

These are focused on rejuvenation – yoga, mindfulness, nutrition, or holistic healing.
Revenue streams often include workshops, spa services, and retreat‑specific products.

➤ Corporate Retreats

Targeted at business teams or executives, these focus on leadership, team‑building, or company culture.
They often bring in higher ticket sales and are usually funded by company budgets.

➤ Creative Retreats

From writing and photography to pottery and painting – these retreats blend inspiration and skill development.
Revenue can come from teaching fees, art sales, and ongoing programs or memberships post‑retreat.

➤ Spiritual or Transformational Retreats

These retreats center on energy work, personal growth, or manifestation.
They tend to attract smaller, more intimate groups who invest deeply in the experience – making them highly profitable per participant.

The Secret to Making a Retreat Business Profitable

The magic combination?

★ A clear niche
★ A solid pricing structure
★ Consistent marketing + real selling
★ And a community that trusts your leadership

When you build these foundations, your retreat business becomes repeatable.
That’s how you move from “hosting one retreat a year” to building a profitable, sustainable business with recurring revenue and raving clients.

My Final Thoughts

I’ve been in this game for over 15 years – and I can tell you, the most successful retreat leaders aren’t the ones who host the fanciest events.

They’re the ones who treat their retreats like a business, not a side hustle.

If you’re ready to step into that next level – to go from “dreaming about retreats” to actually running a retreat business- get in the right room.

I’ll be teaching this in detail with other amazing leaders in Denver next may at the Retreat Industry Forum – where we’ll map out your profitable retreat plan from idea to sold‑out event.

See you there.