If you're a woman who spends your days giving to everyone else and you're craving a day to exhale, reconnect with your spark, and feel inspired again, then join us for this soul-nourishing retreat.
Upon arrival, you are warmly greeted at the front door. Morning light illuminates freshly cut flowers in glass bottles, and the unmistakable scent of homemade baked goods permeates the air.
As you sip on your coffee and take in the panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay from the living room, you decide to step outside to more fully take in the landscape. You take in the scent of delicate roses.
On the lawn, a wild cotton-tail rabbit darts past, hopping into the bushes just ahead of you. Once outside, you hear the gentle sounds of a pair of goldfinches chirping, and spot a red-tailed hawk circling overhead. The sun is rising, and the fog is lifting. It is peaceful here.
You close your eyes and deeply breathe in the cool air, perhaps the first deep breath you’ve taken in a long, long time. Exhaling slowly, you hear the gentle whir of a hummingbird whizzing by.
Another breath in, a longer exhale out, and you can feel your shoulders soften, and tension releasing.
You hear others quietly gathering inside. With anticipation and inspiration, you are ready for a day away.
Welcome to our community!
Wouldn't it be empowering to spend one day away from the stress that comes with juggling life, family and responsibilities in a supportive community of like-minded women?
Through our art workshops and self-exploration, you'll play and create so that you can reconnect with your inner spark.
Through meaningful connections and shared experiences, we'll build a supportive community where you are seen.
As we awaken new possibilities, you'll break from your daily routine and feel inspired.
During our soul-nourishing time together, you'll prioritize your own needs, guilt-free, and envision a more balanced life.
Our oasis is located at the very top of the Oakland Hills. The property has two levels of gardens with quiet nooks to escape and an expansive lawn with panoramic San Francisco Bay views. Indoors, you'll find comfortable spaces for relaxing and plenty of table space for our art workshops.
Our day includes lovingly prepared nourishment (morning snack & lunch); group activities; a journal making project; guided meditation, written exploration, a painting workshop and plenty of down time to relax and enjoy the day.
"Niki's house is BEAUTIFUL! The moment I stepped into the space, there was a feeling of serenity, warmth, love, and appreciation for my presence. Being in a tranquil, peaceful space with other women gave me a desire to want to connect, learn more about each other, find common threads, and share more openly.
I felt that I could "exhale" and let go of all that I was holding. The retreat re-centered me & grounded me. Niki's house and the activities you provided were both FULL OF LOVE and I felt loved, seen, appreciated and when I left, hungry for more.... " ~ Michelle
After a career as an art educator and owner of Her Story Images, a woman's boudoir photography studio, I am excited to bring my passions together to curate spaces for women to connect: with themselves and others.
I love the intimacy and connection I feel with my clients during a photo session, and I want to bring that authenticity to our retreats. Clients tell me how boudoir photography has helped them feel more confident, beautiful, empowered and alive.
I hope to create all of that in our retreats while giving women a space to explore & express their inner spark in a community of like-minded women.
Lately I’ve been reflecting on what really matters, and on the moments in my life when I’ve felt the most inspired and energized. Every one of these moments has been in community with people who are passionately, joyfully doing what they love.
As a lifelong educator, empowering people to realize their unique strengths, to grow self confidence and to become leaders has been deeply fulfilling. And, ultimately, what I’ve loved most is this: helping people to see their own radiance and connect with what sparks joy.
I am beyond delighted to partner with Niki on this adventure, doing what we love- cultivating community and beautiful spaces for connection, reflection, transformation, celebration and nourishment.
(Register by September 15th to save $50!)
"Such a beautiful day!
It’s difficult these days to find a safe place to breathe and decompress and this day was that for me.
I loved the journal making, and that from someone who identifies as artistically inept!
The sense of community was grounding and so appreciated.
The gorgeous setting with the stunning view were the perfect backdrop. Thank you Tina and Niki!" ~ Sidney
"I felt relaxed and rejuvenated after the retreat. It was wonderful to take a break from everyday life and connect more deeply with myself. Niki’s home is beautiful, light, warm and welcoming, a perfect place to relax and reconnect with oneself and meet new friends.
I recommend this experience to others looking to share contemplative time with other like minded women." ~ Karen
We're currently planning more one-day events and longer international retreats in 2026. We're looking at exciting destinations in Central America, Europe and Asia. Want to be the first to hear about our upcoming retreats with access to Early Bird Discounts? Get on the list!