Going into 2020 we had a large retreat planned. That retreat was scheduled to be hosted by the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront from Tuesday, September 15 to Friday, September 18, 2020.

Unfortunately once COVID-19 hit and many businesses had to close for an extended period of time, that retreat was canceled. Budgets were cut by hotels and since we are a fully comped retreat the resort asked us to wait a year before discussing another retreat. Also, many of those planning to attend did not yet feel comfortable traveling.

We initially thought we would simply put the retreat on the back burner for several months to wait to see where travel restrictions went. Never a team to sit back and chill – we quickly changed our minds – we refocused, we took a huge pivot – and decided to hold a small, very intimate retreat. Three We Grow team members and three attendees.

Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa

You all know that one thing We Grow always promotes and discusses is brand relationships. Thanks to our belief in maintaining good relations with all brands we work with, we were able to secure a spot at the Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Florida.

The retreat was held September 13 to September 16, 2020.

The resort provided us with two, very large (over 2,000 SF) – 3 bedroom condo units. Each attendee had their own bedroom and their own bathroom.

Bloggers in Attendance:

Jenn Greene – Journeys with Jenn

Janice Brady – An Open Suitcase

Sarah Mock – Savoring the Good

Winona Rogers – Life, Family and Fun

Jill Robbins – Ripped Jeans and Bifocals

Fadra Nally – All Things Fadra

We utilized a different format than in past retreats. There was no set schedule except for activities and meals. All sessions and learning was done informally. Each attendee came to the retreat with certain goals and we tried to make sure we covered what each one was interested in discussing, learning and/or sharing.

The new format, for me, was a huge success. The relaxed atmosphere made for a much more detailed and in-depth approach.

Most of our meals were provided by Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, as well as spa treatments for all attendees.

VisitFlagler.com provided our group with a great morning at Marineland in St. Augustine where we swam with the dolphins!

Overall, even though it was not the original retreat that was planned for close to a year, our 2020 retreat ended up being our best yet!