Why I Host Girls in the Grey Weekend Retreats: A Journey of Growth, Connection, and Empowerment

When I first envisioned the Girls in the Grey Weekend Retreats, I had a simple goal: to create a safe and empowering space where women could connect, recharge, and rediscover themselves. I imagined hosting a retreat for just 10 women, giving them the chance to step away from their busy lives and share a weekend of growth, self-reflection, and fun. Little did I know, this idea would evolve into something far bigger than I ever expected, touching more lives with each retreat.

The Beginning: A Dream for 10 Women

It all started with a small, intimate vision. I wanted to create a weekend that felt like a breath of fresh air—a chance to step out of the daily grind, to pause and reconnect with the things that really matter. My initial goal was to host the first Girls in the Grey retreat for just 10 women. The idea was simple: provide a weekend filled with insightful workshops, nature walks, deep conversations, and time for self-care. I imagined it would be a safe space where women could be vulnerable, share their stories, and bond in a meaningful way.

As I prepared for that first retreat, I poured my heart into every detail. And I didn't just hit my target of having 10 participants - I had 16 register!! From crafting personalized experiences to designing the perfect mix of activities, I was focused on making it memorable for the small group of women I hoped would come. What I didn’t anticipate, however, was the incredible impact that the retreat would have—not just on the participants, but on me as well.

When the retreat arrived, it exceeded every expectation. The women who came weren’t just looking for a weekend away—they were searching for connection, understanding, and growth. And when they found it, they were eager for more. I realized then that there was something special about this experience that went beyond what I had originally imagined.

The Growth: From 16 to 26 Women

The success of the first retreat didn’t just open my eyes to how powerful these experiences were—it also showed me that there was a real need for this kind of space. The demand for another retreat was overwhelming, so I decided to expand a little. Instead of just hosting 16 women again, I opened the second retreat to 26 women.

This time, we took everything we had learned from the first retreat and made it even better. We deepened the connection, added new activities, and introduced more personalized elements to help everyone feel seen and heard. The response was phenomenal. The women who attended felt transformed by the experience, and many expressed how they’d found a new sense of clarity, confidence, and camaraderie. For me, it was rewarding to see how each retreat grew in both size and impact, and how the community that was being formed continued to evolve.

The Expansion: 52 Women and Beyond

By the time the third Girls in the Grey retreat rolled around, I had witnessed the true power of what I was creating. The word had spread, and I was now preparing for a group of 52 women. What began as an intimate gathering had now expanded into a larger, more diverse group, and the energy was electric.

At this point, I began to realize that the power of these retreats was not just in the activities, but in the way women connected with one another. There was something magical about how each participant brought their unique stories and strengths to the group, and how everyone’s energy combined to create a sense of belonging that was unlike anything I had seen before. It was as if each woman became part of something bigger than herself.

And so, I continued to grow the retreats—each one building on the last. What started as a small gathering of 10 women had now blossomed into a transformative experience for a much larger community, and I knew I was just getting started.

Now, Preparing for the 5th Retreat

As I prepare for the fifth Girls in the Grey Weekend Retreat, I can’t help but reflect on how far we’ve come. From a goal of 10 to constantly being sold out, it has been a journey of unexpected growth, deepened connection, and personal transformation—for me and for the women who join us.

Each retreat continues to offer something new, from the fresh faces that join, to the lessons we learn, to the powerful relationships that are formed. I’ve seen women go on to create lifelong friendships, start new ventures, and gain the courage to pursue their dreams. I’ve witnessed participants step into their power and leave the retreat feeling more aligned with who they truly are. And just as importantly, I’ve seen the joy and sense of fulfillment in the faces of every woman who walks through the door.

For me, the benefits are equally profound. Hosting these retreats has been an incredible journey of self-discovery, too. With each retreat, I grow as a leader, a listener, and a guide. The energy and insights I gain from every woman I meet continue to inspire and teach me, and I am constantly in awe of the strength, wisdom, and resilience of the women who attend.

Why I Keep Coming Back

So, why do I continue to host Girls in the Grey Weekend Retreats? It’s simple: because of the magic I see unfold every time. These retreats create a ripple effect that goes far beyond the weekend itself. They foster deep personal growth, empower women to be their authentic selves, and build lasting connections that support and uplift. And for me, there is nothing more fulfilling than being part of that journey.

Whether it's helping women rediscover their purpose, guiding them through tough transitions, or simply providing a space to relax and recharge, I know that each retreat is an opportunity to change lives—including my own.

And as I prepare for the next chapter of this retreat series, I am filled with gratitude for the women who have shared this journey with me. Together, we’re creating something truly special—and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next.

So, if you’ve ever wondered whether these retreats are for you, I can tell you this: they are. And I hope to see you at one of our future Girls in the Grey Weekend Retreats, where you’ll discover not only new friends, but a new sense of self.