Our First Retreat to Paradise: A Look Back at the Magic We Created

We just returned from our inaugural Meadow and Bark Wellness in Paradise Retreat—and the glow hasn’t faded. Nestled in a stunning private villa on Sapodilla Bay in Turks & Caicos, this four-day escape became more than a getaway. It was a powerful celebration of connection, renewal, and transformation.

🌿 What Made This Retreat Unforgettable

1. The Power of the Pack

Magic happens when like-minded, open-hearted women come together. Bonds formed like waves rolling in—reminding us that we’re never alone on this journey. There was laughter, shared wisdom, and the kind of deep support that only grows from authentic connection.

"An amazing retreat!!! Carefully curated to create a supportive, magical space for connecting, sharing, learning and growth. The people and connections were as beautiful as the turquoise water! An absolutely magical experience with rainbows too! I can't wait for the next one!"

2. Nourishment Can Be Simple—and Beautiful

Chef Suzette worked culinary magic every day, offering meals that nourished both body and spirit. Think:

• Tuna and tofu poke bowls

• Plant-based Brazilian night

• Mediterranean night with local fish

• Breakfast spreads that glowed with fresh fruit and tropical inspiration

Our favorite memory? Dancing under the stars in goddess whites to Greek music—feeling radiant, full, and fully alive.

"The food was a HUGE highlight and I loved the yoga and meditation classes. The 'invitation not an obligation' vibe really allowed people to make the retreat what they wanted it to be."

3. Wellness Is a Ritual

We began each day with sunrise yoga and ended with evening movement and meditation. The highlight? A visit to our retreat partner, The Palms Spa, rated the #1 spa in the Caribbean. Each guest received:

• A custom Meadow and Bark facial

• A rejuvenating 60-minute massage

• A customized wellness lunch overlooking Grace Bay Beach

"The Meadow and Bark Wellness Retreat was the exact reset I needed. The food, yoga, meditation, setting, and people all combined made it a true escape to paradise. I feel restored, refocused, and grateful."

4. Real Talk. Real Healing.

We held space for meaningful conversations—on menopause, self-care, identity, and intuitive wellness. We’re grateful for our retreat partner Ingrid Dodd, whose advocacy around women’s health encouraged us all to speak up, seek answers, and honor our wellness journey.

"Saying yes to the Meadow and Bark Wellness Retreat was a true gift to myself. Not only did I get to bask in the beautiful surroundings, but I was able to connect and engage with new people. This retreat offered me space to pause, breathe, and realign with my true self."

5. We Are the Miracle

From private photo shoots with Marsin Mogielski (Creative Director of Social Life Magazine & Influencer Magazine) to walks in the sea, we were reminded that beauty lives in the everyday—when we tune in, slow down, and treat ourselves with the love we so often give to others.

"The Meadow and Bark retreat was an incredibly uplifting experience for body, mind, and spirit... A gathering of beautiful souls in a gorgeous setting with exquisite food, nourishing activities and the fabulous M&B products. I look forward to more."

🌞 Retreat Skincare Standouts

Our sun-kissed setting gave our plant-powered skincare its moment to shine. These four products stood out as retreat essentials:

• Golden Hour Body Oil: Applied before SPF, this antioxidant-rich oil nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier. It makes your SPF glide on like silk and locks in hydration.

• Mineral 45 in Shimmer: Our radiant, non-toxic SPF made sunscreen feel like an accessory. The shimmer added a golden glow that had guests raving.

• Everyday Sun Shield: Lightweight but powerful sun protection for the face. No white cast, just hydrated, glowing skin.

• After Sun Spray: Kept chilled in the fridge, this spray became a post-beach must-have, instantly calming and hydrating sun-kissed skin.

🌛 Pro Tip: Apply Golden Hour Body Oil before sunscreen for enhanced glide and antioxidant defense.

✨ SPECIAL OFFER:

Love the glow? Get 25% off our newest bundle: Sun Kissed Trio: Golden Hour Body Oil + Mineral 45 Shimmer SPF with code GLOW25 at www.meadowandbark.com

What to Pack for a Wellness Retreat

Planning your own escape? Here's our Wellness in Paradise Retreat Packing List:

• Lightweight activewear and swimsuits

• Linen coverups and goddess whites for evening events

• Refillable water bottle

• Journal for reflection

• Meadow and Bark essentials: Golden Hour Body Oil, Mineral 45 in Shimmer, After Sun Spray, Everyday Sun Shield

• A curious mind and open heart 💛

Want to Join the Next One?

We’re already planning our next Wellness in Paradise retreat! Be the first to know when we announce dates. Visit www.meadowandbark.com and sign up for our newsletter, or follow us on Instagram @meadowandbark.

🌺 Until then—take a breath, take a beat, and take care of you.

 

With Light & Love,

Marisa