Retreat Recap: A Weekend Rooted in Power and Possibility
It all started with a vision and a lot of heart.
When Nancy Berger founder of Start With A Good first dreamt up this retreat she didn’t just want to plan an event. She wanted to create a feeling of grounding, of connection, of rediscovering strength in stillness. Inspired by the mighty redwoods, strong, resilient, deeply rooted, they set out to craft an experience that would leave us all feeling more aligned, more open, and more powerful than when we arrived.
And she delivered.
From the moment we arrived at The Ranch, the world began to soften. Day one began just as it should: with stillness and sound. A calming sound bath grounded us, setting the tone for what would be a weekend of restoration, transformation, and joyful connection.
Then, we divided and conquered. Some headed to massages for deep relaxation, others flowed through yoga, a few took on a power walk, and many enjoyed activations with S.W.A.G’s incredible partners, Breezm and Cable & Gauge, who brought energy and fun in all the right ways.
As the sun began to dip behind the hills, we gathered for a bourbon tasting with Five Springs’ infused spirits a flavorful beging to the night ahead. This was followed by an elegant and informative olive oil tasting led by Bea, who taught us how to savor flavor with intention.
Then came dinner: amazing, warm, and deeply satisfying not just in food, but in conversation and community.
Later that night, in a sea of matching Roller Rabbit pajamas, we wound down around the fire, indulging in Cheesequake treats and sharing stories during an intimate fireside chat with Vanessa Coppes, Editor-in-Chief of Bella Magazine, and Adriana Carrig, Founder of Little Words Project. Their words reminded us what this retreat was really about: owning our power and honoring the stories that got us here.
The retreat was elevated by an incredible array of sponsors who helped create a truly indulgent and inspiring experience. Power Sponsors like Cable and Gauge, Five Springs Bourbon, Breezm Eye Wear, Little Words Project, Lululemon x Peloton, Bea Olive Oil, and Roller Rabbit brought energy and excitement through immersive activations and thoughtful details. Signature Sponsors Madewell, Hulken, APL Shoes, ABC Home, Violet and Brooks, Chevre Cheesecake, Lafayette 148, Simon G Jewelry, and Rex Shoes added stylish and functional flair throughout the weekend. And Sponsors made sure every swag bag was filled to the brim with beauty and wellness must-haves from Maison Francis Kurkdjian, MacKenzie-Childs, L’Oréal, Essie, Garnier, Laura Geller, Collection XIIX, Commando, Fekkai, Glamsquad, HeLight, Jupiter, Lanfredi, Naturally Serious, Nécessaire, Olaplex, Parlux, Peter Thomas Roth, Sipface, Supergoop, Toozi, UTLIMA, and WYOS each one helping to set the tone for a perfectly curated escape.
The next morning began with gentle Tibetan chimes, followed by a centering yoga flow to stretch and prepare our bodies for a morning hike through nature.
We wrapped up the weekend with a peaceful ride to Valley Rock Inn, where we took one last collective breathwork session and shared a beautiful farewell lunch, reflecting on everything we’d gained.
This retreat wasn’t just an escape it was a return. To self. To sisterhood. To strength.
Just like the redwoods, we leave deeply rooted and ready to rise.
