Northern California

August 1-5, 2024

The forest is a mysterious place; in legends and fairy tales, they are usually inhabited by mysterious creatures, symbols of all of the dangers with which young people must contend if they are to become adults. It is a place of testing, a realm of death holding the secrets of nature which man must penetrate to find meaning. In analytical psychology, the forest represents feminity, an unexplored realm full of the unknown. It stands for the unconscious and its mysteries.

The forest has great connection with the symbolism of the mother, it is a place where life thrives.

It is easy to find immense peace and calm when visiting forests. The gentle sound of the wind blowing through the trees can be so soothing, and the atmosphere is tranquil and peaceful.

Discover a sense of calm and warmth from the sun’s rays that stream through the trees and feel your stress and worries disappear.

The Home

Castro Valley is located in the heart of the Easy Bay in Northern California. Beautiful, private home with 7 bedrooms/5 baths located on nearly 150 densely forested acres. Stunning views of the canyon and a charming creek sweeping through the property. Located just 20 minutes from the Oakland Airport and 45 minutes from San Francisco, but you’ll feel 1000 miles away!

The sprawling 2 story home has 3 large decks, one for dining, one with hammocks and a patio with fire pit and the other for enjoying the view with a cup of tea or coffee. There is a formal living room with rustic stone fireplace and an additional huge family room perfect for entertaining.

FAQs

  • Any and all professional photographers. As long as you know basic camera techniques, it doesn’t matter what experience level you are. This retreat IS geared towards those that are (or desire to) make photography a career, whether that be full-time or part-time. We do touch on all aspects of the creator - from business to self.

  • YES! This can be a business write-off!

    Pricing for the California Retreat begins at $2350 for a shared room (own bed) and includes four nights accommodations, food during the event and all planned event activities.

    Pricing does NOT include transportation to and from the event home.

  • There are a total of 12 people attending and this retreat is SOLD OUT.

  • We like to focus on the senses, selecting activities that are geared towards reinvigorating those senses and bringing us back to ourselves. Some activities in the past have included gentle yoga, meditation, Tarot Card reading, catered dinners, and craft activities. All retreats also include an optional styled photo session and headshots.

  • All activities are OPTIONAL. However, we have put a lot of time and intention into the chosen activities and they are specifically designed to allow you time for self care and relaxation along with an educational element that will fuel your creative fire! Your registration fees are allotted towards these events. We do send out a questionnaire so that you have the opportunity to share preferences and/or requests.

  • We are very excited to bring to the table an organized presentation by Lindsey & Lauren on The Importance of a Healthy Self in Order to Run a Sustainable Business.

    We will also allot some time for capture professional headshots that can be used in all of your marketing.

  • Bring your go-to gear; camera, batteries, cards, etc. Feel free to bring your laptop although it is not required!

  • Yes, we have a Refresh Facebook Group that we encourage all attendees to join. We will also be communicating and connecting with you via group emails/chats/etc.

  • We do not guarantee sleeping accommodations in advance. However, we do guarantee that you will always have your own bed and will never share a bunkbed or be assigned to a sleep-sofa. We try to keep it to a maximum of two people in one room unless there are extenuating circumstances of which would be clearly communicated in advance.

  • Of course, if you know someone who is attending you can request to bunk with them!

  • Yes, of course we will make note and be very sensitive to any dietary restrictions and/or preferences.

  • All meals and non-alcoholic beverages will be taken care of once you arrive at the house. The menu will be sent in advance, but is always subject to change based on availability. If there are any snacks you have on your “must have” list, we will make note (this question also included in survey to come at a later time). However, if you want to bring personal snacks and food items, you are welcome to do so.

  • Fully defined in the contract, the cancellation policy states due to the nature and financial commitment of these events, participants understand their investment is non-refundable and non-transferable to another event. The attendee is responsible for the final balance or finding a replacement attendee to take over their contract.