I have a deep love for team retreats – they always leave me feeling both exhilarated and exhausted in the best way possible. Zoom can never replace the in-person connections we make during these retreats. Recently, our team had the opportunity to meet in Oregon Wine country for three incredible nights. This was the first time Caitlin from LA met Marlee from Portland face-to-face, and it was a memorable experience. The retreat was filled with unique and memorable activities that truly reflected the essence of the location. I’ll share all the details with you today if you’re interested.
How I Plan Retreats…
As a Virgo/Enneagram 7, I am all about having fun while also being a bit controlling and rigid when it comes to planning. I believe in packing the schedule with unique experiences that can only be enjoyed at the specific location we are in. This retreat required some serious planning on my part, including presenting a new employee handbook, updating policies, and setting goals for the team. Leading a team feels like parenting to me – incredibly fulfilling but also challenging. Despite my flaws, I strive to create a healthy and connected work environment for my team.
The A Team!
I am incredibly grateful for the dedicated team members who have been with the company for years, bringing their talent and creativity to the table. Each team member contributes unique strengths, making our small team a powerhouse of creativity and innovation. Building and leading this team has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.
Where We Stayed…The Carly FTW
Our retreat was hosted at The Carly, a boutique estate hotel in Carlton, OR, designed in collaboration with Max Humphrey. The luxurious setting provided the perfect backdrop for our retreat, offering a cozy and elegant ambiance. The attention to detail in the design of the hotel was impeccable, creating a truly memorable experience for all of us.
Throughout the retreat, we engaged in productive work sessions balanced with fun activities, such as wine tasting at local vineyards and exploring the charming town of McMinnville. The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the private chef who prepared a customized spring meal for us, leaving us all feeling pampered and appreciative.
What We Did On Our Retreat
Our days were filled with a mix of work and play, with activities like wine tasting, shopping, and enjoying delicious meals together. The teamwork and productivity we experienced during the retreat left us all feeling inspired and ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming year. The in-person connection and bonding we shared reinforced the importance of building strong relationships within the team.
As we look ahead to future retreats, we are excited to continue building on the momentum and inspiration gained from this experience. The retreat was a reminder of the value of in-person connections and the positive impact they have on our work and personal lives.
If you’re interested in renting out The Carly for your own retreat or event, you can find more information here.
*Photos by Kaitlin Green