This January, we wrapped up our first session of the UPLEVELED Group Cohort with an intimate retreat to the mountains of East Tennessee. Here we focused on restoration, connection, and growth at my favorite spot, RT Lodge.

We kicked off the retreat with a welcome dinner created by Chef Trevor Stockton and the team at RT Lodge. There are many reasons to run to RT Lodge, however, the food is certainly fighting for the top. The goal of this retreat was to keep things simple, but of course, we couldn’t help but add in some beautiful blooms by the talented Colby West Design. The floral designers at the table could not get over how lovely it was to admire gorgeous blooms, rather than create them.

After a night of networking, eating, laughing, and resting, we dove in the next day to our session topics. What is discussed at the retreat, stays at the retreat however so you will have to use your imagination when it comes to topics! Let’s just say, there were tears, laughs, and even one yell.

But don’t worry. Not everything was about work! We also enjoyed lots of fun from bike rides, to fireside s’mores, to a surprise cocktail making class hosted by the talented lead bar manage Randi at RT Lodge. French 75 cocktails and mocktails were enjoyed by all!

One of our afternoon activities was to encourage people to step outside their comfort zone for a headshot and branding photo session captured by Mary Kate Steele. The grounds at RT Lodge are so diverse we were able to capture unique moments for each attendee that fit with their individual style.

To say this retreat was the best time absolutely does not cover the magic that happened over the 4 days we spent together as a group. The conversations that were had were needed. The rest that was experienced was earned. Overall, an investment was made into ourselves as women and then also as business owners. We look forward with anticipation the magic that will take place at our next Upleveled Retreat this July!

Curious about the Upleveled program and how you can join in on the group coaching and/or the retreat? Click here to learn more and apply for Upleveled.

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Check out more photos from the Upleveled Retreat below.