Recap: Let's Talk Retreats

In a recent conversation, Tiffany English interviewed seasoned retreat organizer Sunita Vira, who shed light on the rising trend of retreats and workshops focused on nourishment, nurturing, and reflection. The discussion highlighted several key elements crucial to planning and executing successful retreats. Here are the takeaways:

Key Insights on Planning and Marketing

A retreat needs proper planning and marketing. Create a well-structured sales page that provides detailed information about the retreat, its purpose, and what participants can expect. Additionally, building a community before organizing a retreat is essential to ensure a strong attendee base.

Choosing the Right Venue

One of the critical aspects of organizing a retreat is selecting a venue that aligns with the retreat's values and can accommodate the specific needs of the participants. Sunita shared her experience of finding the perfect venue through diligent research, communication with venue owners, and site visits. She stressed the importance of evaluating the venue's facilities, including food options, conference rooms, and other necessary spaces.

Dietary Considerations

Dietary preferences and allergies are vital considerations in planning a retreat. It is vital send out a pre-retreat questionnaires to attendees to gather information on their food preferences and health issues. Partnering with venues to design healthy, inclusive menu options is also crucial for a successful retreat experience.

Actionable Steps for Retreat Planning

• Design Targeted Retreat Page and Sales Materials: Create comprehensive and engaging sales pages with Q&A sections and booking buttons.
• Send Out Pre-Retreat Questionnaire: Gather essential information on attendees' food preferences and health issues.
• Partner with Venues: Collaborate with venues to ensure they offer healthy, inclusive menu options.

Transformational Experiences

Sunita described her retreats as "transformational experiences" that help people regain their "zest for life" and make healthy changes. Her curated approach focuses on food, environment, and other elements to help participants identify and implement positive changes in their lives.

Planning and Booking

Start retreat planning at least a year in advance to allow for venue lock-in and targeted marketing. Create a contract with clear details on payment schedules, expectations, and cancellation policies.

Promoting Retreats

Promotion plays a significant role in the success of a retreat. Sunita suggested using newsletters and social media to engage potential attendees and sharing personal experiences to resonate with them.

Working with an experienced event professional can make a significant difference in the success of your retreat. Let's brainstorm!

Watch the replay here

​About the Guest Speaker: Sunita Vira is a Retreat Leader, Chef and Nutrition Coach. Published author of RAW for LIFE! Founder & CEO of the Raw Food Center, Chicago & Singapore. Sunita has been working with FOOD as MEDICINE for over two decades. Her goal is to help people transform their health to Livin' their Best Life! She brings ancient wisdom from her travels around the world with a modern twist!

Sunita is based in Chicago and leads fun virtual culinary wellness programs, private coaching, seasonal cleanses and sought-after culinary wellness retreats in exotic locations around the world with a personal touch of love!

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