This phrase may be popularized by real estate agents helping buyers choose the perfect home, but the same rings true when choosing a space for camps and retreats. Two similar event spaces in size, price, and amenity can produce two completely different events.
Location sets the backdrop of your event, so choosing the right space will tie the overall vision together.
A few years ago, I collaborated on a retreat for young adults in Hawai’i. The group had normally held the retreat at the denomination-owned camp on Oahu. Around 30 young adults would gather each year in the same place out of tradition and convenience for worship, teaching, and time at the beach.
Open to straying from tradition, we began with the non-negotiables around the goals, vision, and vibes we wanted to achieve.
Intimate, unplugged, restful, cozy. We settled on these words and realized they didn’t match our usual camp at all.
With only 30 young adults, the camp was much too big to be intimate. Many of the young adults spent summers as kids and then as camp staff in the same space, and some even currently lived on the camp property as year round staff. It would be challenging to fully unplug in a place that was so familiar and connected.
Restfulness might be achieved in the space, but many of the retreat goers would be the ones setting up the space and cleaning up after it. Not quite what we were hoping for. Finally, coziness was nearly impossible, as the cabins were primitive and very, very hot.
After much searching, we landed on a small inn near Volcano National Park. Just outside of Hilo, the inn was situated in the rainiest city in the entire United States. Coziness? Check! The space was small and remote, forcing intimate worship in a crowded living room space, and a serious lack of cell phone reception. Check, check!
The retreat ended up being one of the most restful and special retreats in the history of the group. Each element of the retreat was carefully crafted, and the location pulled everything together.
So, outside of booking your own retreat on Hawai’i’s Big Island, how can you choose the perfect location for your event?
1. Define Your Retreat’s Core Vision and Goals
Before choosing a location, clearly outline the specific objectives you want to achieve with your event. Consider key elements like intimacy, restfulness, and connection. For example, ask questions like: Do you want participants to unplug from technology? Is creating a cozy, restful environment important? Identifying your non-negotiables will ensure the location aligns with the atmosphere you want to create.
2. Evaluate Space Size and Ambiance
Think about how the size of the venue affects the overall vibe of your retreat. A location that’s too large might feel impersonal, while one that’s too small could feel cramped. Ensure the venue’s size aligns with the number of attendees and supports your retreat goals—whether you’re aiming for intimacy, cozy spaces, or a peaceful atmosphere. The venue should also foster the right environment for your activities, from worship to relaxation.
3. Prioritize Uniqueness and Disconnect
Choose a location that encourages participants to disconnect from their everyday environment. Consider selecting a place that offers a change of scenery or something unique (like being in a remote, low-tech area). This will help attendees truly unplug, reflect, and engage deeply with the retreat’s activities. A unique, off-the-beaten-path venue can make the experience more special and help your group focus on the event’s spiritual and emotional goals.
In conclusion, choosing the right location for your retreat is essential to bringing your vision to life. A carefully selected space can transform the overall experience and help craft a memorable, meaningful event. So, take the time to evaluate your retreat’s needs and choose a location that aligns perfectly with your goals. The right setting can make all the difference.