Julie Shipley-Strickland Wealth & Risk Management

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Unplug & Elevate: My Go-To Retreats for Female Entrepreneurs

If you’ve been following along with my channels for a while, then you know I’m a huge advocate for taking intentional time away from the daily grind. Whether it’s a business retreat, a wellness escape, or something that blends both, as a business owner, stepping out of your routine can be exactly what you need to get clarity, reset your energy, and come back to your business stronger.

Last year, I attended The Rare Method retreat in Mexico, and I was hooked. It wasn’t just a getaway; it was a catalyst for growth and a way to connect with other entrepreneurial women in a place that was outside our regular environment. The experience was so impactful that I immediately built it into my 2025 travel and budget plan, and I’m on board to do it again next year. There’s something oh-so special about surrounding yourself with like-minded women that sparks new ideas, fresh motivation, and the deepest connections.

If you’re looking for a retreat that offers business growth, personal development, and a generous dose of R&R, I’ve rounded up a few of my favourites and some that I’ve got my eye on for the coming year. From high-touch leadership experiences to wellness-driven escapes that still feed your entrepreneurial spirit, I’ve curated a little something for everyone.


The Rare Method Retreat – Mexico

Where: Mexico
When: Annual

If you want a retreat that blends somatic movement, self-inquiry practices, and time to truly breathe, this is it. A true sanctuary for the mind, body and spirit, Rare Method retreats bring together ambitious, like-minded women to challenge, support, and inspire each other in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.

What makes it a must-do:

  • A high-caliber group of women. Think: entrepreneurs, creatives, and thought leaders across industries
  • A mix of structured learning and unstructured time to reflect, reset, and strategize
  • Sayulita is pure magic. Beachside chats, stunning scenery, and a relaxed, inspiring vibe

This one is permanently on my calendar for a reason.


Orenda Society – Women’s Leadership Retreat

Where: Southern Alberta
When: November 14-16

If you’re looking for something closer to home that still feels like a true reset, the Orenda Society retreat offers an immersive leadership experience set in the Canadian wilderness. This past year’s women’s immersion event took place at Azuridge, and I’ve heard only great things about it. It’s designed for women who are ready to step into their next level of leadership while also prioritizing clarity, well-being, and balance.

What sets it apart:

  • A strong focus on leadership and mindset; deep conversations and personal breakthroughs that really hit home
  • A connection to nature through breathwork, reflection, and much needed time to unplug
  • Run by Canadian women for Canadian women, which means the themes and challenges are incredibly relatable

It’s the perfect blend of personal transformation and professional expansion.


The Fairmont Chateau Whistler Wellness Retreat

Where: Whistler, British Columbia
When: Annual

For those who want a retreat that’s equal parts luxury and restoration, this one is worth considering. Hosted at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Whistler, this experience blends expert-led workshops, guided movement, and mindfulness practices in a setting that’s impossible to not feel inspired by.

Why it’s worth it:

  • A fully immersive experience in one of Canada’s most stunning destinations
  • An emphasis on overall well-being; perfect for entrepreneurs who need to reset but don’t necessarily want a business focused retreat
  • A mix of structured sessions and downtime

This one is for the women who know they perform better when they make space for rest.


Tracey Jazmin’s Elevate Mastermind Retreat

Where: Rotating locations across North America
When: Annual

For the women who are ready to uplevel their business in a tangible way, this mastermind retreat offers a high-touch, strategy-focused experience designed to help entrepreneurs break through limiting patterns, scale with intention, and create a business they truly love.

It’s a great fit for those who:

  • Want more clarity in their business direction
  • Are craving a strong community of ambitious women who truly get it
  • Need real, actionable strategy combined with deep personal work

If you’re serious about growth and want a retreat that’s both business-forward and transformative, this is a great option.


Are Retreats a Smart Investment?

I get it, taking time away from work feels counterintuitive when you’re growing a business. But every single time I’ve stepped away to attend a retreat, I’ve come back re-energized, refocused, and more in tune with what I want to build and how I’m going to get there.

Here’s why I feel like retreats are worth the investment for me:

  • They pull you out of the day-to-day grind. It’s easy to get stuck in the weeds of meetings, playing cab driver to your kids, and steering the ship at home. Retreats have helped me step back and see the bigger picture.
  • They connect you with women who push you to grow. For me, being surrounded by the right people can be the biggest catalyst for success. The retreats I’ve attended have connected me with women who changed the game for both my mindset and my business for the better.
  • They remind you that success isn’t just about working harder. Rest, strategy, and aligned action go hand in hand, of course.

Your Turn to Unplug

I’m already looking forward to my next retreat just writing this out, and I hope this list has you reflecting on where you might want to hit pause and find your personal reset. If you’ve been on the fence about taking time away, consider this your sign to find space in your budget to make it happen.

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