Karla Casillas Karla Casillas

An Unforgettable Journey with Wedaways

Elevating the Art of Luxury Destination Weddings

Embarking on the Wedaways retreat at he exquisite Mattei’s Tavern, an Auberge Resort in Los Olivos, CA, was nothing short of a transformative experience for anyone involved in the luxury destination weddings sector. As a wedding planner/vendor, the opportunity to mingle and learn alongside the industry's finest was an unparalleled adventure that exceeded all expectations.

From the moment the retreat commenced, it was clear that this was not your ordinary industry gathering. The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation, setting the stage for what was to be an extraordinary confluence of minds. The setting was immaculate, meticulously chosen to reflect the elegance and sophistication that align with luxury destination weddings.

The highlight of the retreat was undoubtedly the invaluable insights shared by Rene Strauss and Shannon Leahy. Their presentations were not just informative but truly enlightening, shedding light on complex pain points with clarity and depth. Their expertise resonated with us all, providing actionable strategies and innovative approaches to elevate our services in the luxury segment.

Adding to the wealth of knowledge was the significant involvement of the Los Cabos Tourism Board, spearheaded by the dynamic Susie Albin-Najera. Her presentation of the Top 5 Luxury Resorts in Los Cabos was a standout moment, offering an exclusive glimpse into the premier destinations that set the bar for luxury in the region. This collaboration not only enriched our understanding but also showcased the synergy between local tourism bodies and wedding professionals in crafting unparalleled experiences.

An additional layer of expertise was provided by Pamela Goldman, renowned for her deep knowledge of The Best Destination Wedding Luxury Collection worldwide. Her insights offered a global perspective, highlighting the crème de la crème of wedding destinations and further empowering us with a comprehensive understanding of the luxury wedding landscape.

The structure of the three-day event was thoughtfully designed to foster meaningful interactions and build lasting connections among attendees. Every activity, session, and break was an opportunity to engage with fellow professionals, share experiences, and inspire each other. This intentional design facilitated a sense of community and camaraderie that is often missing in conventional industry events.

What set this retreat apart was the tangible sense of inspiration it instilled in us. Leaving the event, I felt invigorated, equipped with newfound knowledge, and, importantly, surrounded by a network of new friends and allies in the industry. The experience was a testament to the power of collaboration and shared passion in driving forward the luxury destination wedding sector.

In conclusion, the Wedaways retreat was an extraordinary journey that left an indelible mark on my professional path. It was a celebration of shared passion, a wellspring of knowledge, and a catalyst for enduring connections in the luxury destination wedding industry. For anyone seeking to elevate their craft and connect with like-minded professionals, this retreat is a beacon of inspiration and excellence.

Wedaways Retreats Hosted By: @wedawaystravel @rachelhavel
Venue: @matteistavernauberge
Guest Speaker: @shannonleahy
Photography: @thekateson
Videographer: @samengfilms
Floral and Decor: @emmarosefloral @bbjlatavola
Gifting: @lavenderandpinegifting
Branding and Stationery: @sweetzionpaperie
Wedaways Destination Partners: @loscabostourismboard @montageloscabos @thecapehotel @esperanzaauberge @chilenobayauberge @wapedregal @oneandonlypalmilla

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