10 Things to Know Before Hosting Your First Wellness Retreat

1. Be Strategic with Price Point for Your First Retreat

Your first retreat is more about proof of concept than profit.. although that is definitely still super important. Without the buzz or built-in community just yet, most people are not selling their first retreat out based on FOMO alone. Price affordably, deliver massive value, and use this first experience as a foundation for future offerings and a way to build incredible word of mouth referrals. The goal for your first retreat should be for your retreaters to come to the next one and to bring a friend!

2. Choose a Venue Within Driving Distance

Minimize friction for your guests. A retreat that’s driveable (or just a short train ride away) is much easier for people to say yes to — especially if they’re newer to retreats. If your audience is primarily local or regional, meet them where they are. Everyone loves the idea of a retreat in Tulum or Costa Rica, but don’t sleep on the idea of hosting within a few hours of the city you live in.

3. Strong Marketing Comes From a Strong Vision

Spend time with your itinerary. What’s the vision? What do you want people to feel over those 2–5 days? Will the days be busy with workshops and experiences or laid back with free time? People want to be drawn into an experience — not just a destination. The clearer you are on your vision, the more powerful your marketing can be.

4. Plan the Logistics Just as Deeply as the Vision

The vibe matters. But so does where people sleep, eat, move, and gather. Retreat magic is built on clarity and flow. Ask yourself:

• How many shared vs. private rooms does the venue offer?

• Where will you host yoga, breathwork, or group sessions?

• Are there indoor and outdoor spaces?

5. Think Through the Details That Make People Feel Cared For

Will there be a daily charcuterie board at golden hour? Smoothies after morning yoga? What happens when guests first arrive? How do you want to close the retreat? Small touches — a thoughtful welcome ritual, fresh flowers, or an intentional goodbye — make people feel seen and valued.

6. Goodie Bags? Cute… But Not Essential

Everyone loves a little surprise — but you don’t need to overspend on physical items to create transformation. If goodie bags feel fun and aligned, go for it. But don’t let them become a stressor. Presence > presents.

7. Use a Finance Spreadsheet — And Keep Updating It

Keep tabs on your budget and projections throughout the process of selling. We recommend building in flexible pricing scenarios based on different group sizes. (Need a starting point? Grab our Retreat Planning Spreadsheet here). Be mindful of group size, grocery list, things like sage, candles, yoga mats, eye masks, etc. as they are absolutely part of your budget!

8. Have Clear Terms & Conditions

It’s not just about protecting yourself — it’s about building trust. People feel safer when expectations are transparent. Make sure you have policies in place for:

• Weather events

• Illness (COVID, etc.)

• Cancellations and refunds
  

9. Choose Your Team with Intention

Whether it’s a chef, a cohost, or a day-of coordinator, your team should energize you — not drain you. Hosting is a powerful energetic output. Make sure you’re supported so you can stay grounded and present for your guests. (Just because you can do things alone or yourself, doesn’t mean you necessarily should).

10. Hosting a Retreat Is a Sacred Responsibility — and a Skill

This isn’t just a weekend getaway. It’s a container. An invitation. An initiation. Hosting takes prep, courage, and a lot of behind-the-scenes work — but the impact? Transformational. Pour into your retreats and your retreaters and you will be on your way to building a path as a sought after experience curator and retreat host.

Ready to Host? RetreatVi Can Help.

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