Following Sold-Out Launch, Attendees Call Experience "The Best Thing I've Done for Myself This Year"

What began as the first dedicated wellbeing retreat for women in the events industry quickly became a sold-out success story, and this winter, the experience returns for its next empowering chapter.

TEWINBURY FARM, HERTFORDSHIRE, UK - October 19, 2025 - After the overwhelming success of its inaugural gathering, the Women in Events Retreat series is delighted to announce its first overnight Winter Retreat, taking place 30-31 January 2026 at the beautiful De Vere Horsley Estate in Surrey.

The first retreat, held in October at Tewinbury Farm Hotel, brought together women from all levels and sectors of the events industry for a day dedicated to rest, reflection, and reconnection. The response was extraordinary, with participants describing the experience as "the single best thing I've done for myself this year."

Creating Space for Those Who Hold Space

Co-founded by Gabrielle Austen-Browne, a respected expert in diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing, and Lucy Eden, a leading voice in wellbeing, human sustainability, and women's health in the events industry, the Women in Events Retreat was created to support those who spend their careers supporting others.

 "In our industry, we're constantly giving, to clients, to teams, to audiences," says co-founder Lucy Eden. "This retreat is about giving back to ourselves. It's a moment to pause, reconnect, and remember that personal wellbeing is the foundation of professional success."

Co-founder Gabby Austen-Browne adds: "We're acknowledging that our wellbeing directly impacts our ability to create inclusive, accessible, extraordinary experiences for others. These spaces matter because they recognise that caring for ourselves (and each other) isn't selfish - it's a necessity."

Industry Leaders Share Their Experience

The inaugural retreat's impact resonated deeply with attendees across all career stages.

Shonali Devereaux, Chief Executive of the Meetings Industry Association, shared: "THIS was the SINGLE BEST THING I have done for myself this year. It was truly transformational to spend a day focusing on my wellbeing, curated beautifully and guided expertly... Whether it was the somatic movement, burning our burdens in a fire pit, connecting with nature, or the wholesome company of women holding space for and uplifting each other, the whole day was peppered with emotional shifts and mini-epiphanies."

Priya Narain, Head of Purpose at KERB and Co-founder of Event First Steps, noted: "An event like this was a stark reminder of how we should put a pause on our busy lives sometimes and take the time to connect with others and nature. The women that attended were instrumental in creating a safe space by being so open and honest, and finding the strength in their vulnerability to create an atmosphere of trust and respect."

Cheryl Thornton, shared "What you created was so much more than a retreat; it was a reminder of what happens when women gather with intention, softness, and strength that doesn't demand performance. The energy in that circle was nourishing in every sense. Thank you for holding such a thoughtful, restorative space. For anyone who hasn't experienced one of these days yet, I can't recommend it enough. The next retreat is going to be something special"

A Curated Journey Through the Seasons

The retreat programme combined ancient wisdom with modern wellbeing practices, featuring:

• Somatic movement and gentle yoga designed to support women's natural energy cycles

• Forest bathing and nature connection practices

• Guided meditation and yoga nidra for deep restoration

• Sacred circle work creating bonds of mutual support

• Intentional journaling to identify roadblocks and clarify goals

• Seasonal, plant-based cuisine supporting hormonal balance

• Fire ceremonies

The Winter Retreat. A Deeper Journey

The upcoming Winter Retreat marks the series' first overnight experience, offering participants extended time for stillness, introspection, and visioning as they prepare for the new year.

Scheduled for 30-31 January 2026 at De Vere Horsley Estate in Surrey, this cosy gathering will embrace winter's invitation to rest, reflect, and renew. The programme includes exclusive use of the historic Horsley Towers Mansion House, with intimate spaces for deep work and connection.

The retreat follows the series' seasonal approach, with each gathering aligned to nature's rhythms:

• Winter: Stillness, introspection, and visioning
• Spring: Creativity, awakening, and new possibilities
• Summer: Celebration, abundance, and embodiment
• Autumn: Reflection, transition, and graceful release

Building a Movement, Not Just an Event

What sets the Women in Events Retreat apart is its commitment to ongoing support that extends far beyond the event itself. Participants gain access to a supportive WhatsApp community where connections continue to deepen, two follow-up integration Zoom sessions to embed the retreat experience into daily life, priority booking for future seasonal retreats, and a curated goodie bag filled with tools for continued practice. The intimate nature of the retreats with attendance limited to ensure quality connections has already generated a waiting list for future dates.

Industry Response and Future Vision

The retreat has attracted professionals from diverse roles including event directors, producers, sales professionals, venue specialists, and sustainability consultants, with experience ranging from emerging talent to industry veterans with 16+ years in the field.

As one attendee shared: "I feel lighter and less confused. Taking time out, not wanting to always be something or being somewhere" has become her key takeaway, alongside "definitely count me in" for future retreats.

When event professionals prioritise their mental, emotional, and physical restoration, they model sustainable success that doesn't require burnout or sacrificing wellbeing for professional achievement.

Your wellbeing matters. Slowing down is productive, too. And you deserve to be held, not just hold everything together, concludes Lucy Eden.

Register your interest for the winter retreat here: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/68dbbd99712f80142a6ad69f

Limited spaces remain for the Winter Retreat on 30-31 January 2026 at De Vere Horsley Estate.

The package includes overnight accommodation, all meals, full programme access, and ongoing support.

For more information or to secure your place, contact Lucy Eden and Gabrielle Austen-Browne at womenineventsretreat@gmail.com

About The Women in Events Retreat

The Women in Events Retreat - For Women Who Lead, Create, and Care - is a quarterly sanctuary designed exclusively for women and non-binary event professionals seeking sustainable success, authentic community, and renewed connection with their purpose. Founded on principles of seasonal alignment, feminine wisdom, and industry-specific support, the programme creates transformative experiences that honour both professional ambition and personal wellbeing.

About De Vere Horsley Estate

De Vere Horsley Estate is a historic 700-acre sustainably-farmed countryside estate in Surrey, committed to environmental stewardship and providing sanctuary spaces for healing and growth. The venue offers multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, including the magnificent Horsley Towers Mansion House, designed to create deep connection with nature and community.