This past weekend, I embarked on a trip of a lifetime. I left behind the chilly state of Wisconsin to meet over 90 people I didn’t know and explore a city I had never visited before. I joined Rising Tide Society leaders from around the country for a weekend retreat in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina. For two days we gathered at No. 5 Faber to work together on new ways we can influence and impact our groups and our cities. We heard from amazing speakers who discussed everything from how to collaborate with other creatives, what to do when conflict arises, how to live your life and do all things with positive intentions, and realizing we are all worthy.

Every single leader I met this weekend was absolutely incredible. They were all genuinely kind and willing to share about their lives and so interested in hearing about mine. Everyone wanted to get to know everyone and I made so many new friends in the process. With this shared camaraderie we enjoyed all Charleston had to offer. We had photo shoots along Rainbow Row, explored small streets and even tinier alleyways, shared many tables together at delicious restaurants around the city for every meal, and even snuggled up close as we walked the city at night for fun ghost tours! I loved everything about Charleston – the unbelievably delicious food, the friendly citizens, the history – but what I loved even more was that I could share this experience with so many wonderful new friends.

One of the biggest, most important messages I took away from this retreat was this fact: what we are doing matters. We are growing and nurturing a community of creatives, small business owners, and entrepreneurs that believe in helping one another. We are redefining what it means to be a business owner. It’s not about the likes on Facebook, the followers on Instagram, how much money you make, or what others can do for you. It’s all about how you can impact the lives of those around you. This reminder helped me realize that whenever I’m stressed about business or life that as long as I am loving and serving others to the best of my ability, then everything will work out. There is no greater feeling than knowing you are making a difference in someone else’s life.

I am eagerly awaiting the next chance I get to see all these wonderful leaders again. As soon as our next adventure is planned, I know I’m booking my flight right away! Until next time, I’m reminiscing over every moment.

Seriously, can I please live on this street?!

These women were so amazing and they welcomed me with open arms and open hearts throughout the entire trip!

Day One of the RTS Leaders Retreat held at the gorgeous No. 5 Faber!

Lauren Carnes totally rocked her presentation!

I FINALLY got my own Demos Sandwich! I felt the same way about meeting Amy and Jordan Demos that I had when I was a kid and I met my favorite Disney princess, Jasmine. I was SO giddy and excited! These two have helped me in so many aspects of my business and my life. I’m incredibly thankful for their knowledge, kindness, and support!

Our Gatsby-inspired Speakeasy Party was too much fun!! I danced the night away!

Day Two – bright, sunny and full of wonderful possibilities

I drank so much sweet tea! It’s my guilty pleasure every time I travel to the South.

Wisconsin Leaders representing our great state!! Wish our other Wisconsin leaders could have joined us.

These two women, wow. I cannot speak enough about how much they have changed my life. I’m so unbelievably proud of Natalie and Krista for dreaming big dreams and taking the initiative to make those dreams a reality. I cannot thank them enough for starting this amazing movement and always loving and supporting us in all that we do. They are so sweet and I just adore their kind hearts. I’m so happy I had the chance to meet them, spend time with them, and call them my friends.

These amazing leaders rocking out their presentations! I took so many notes!!

You guys, I did something crazy on this trip. I actually SPOKE at our Retreat! Ahhh, I know! I mustered up the courage to speak to over 90 wonderful people and guess what? I LOVED IT! I loved sharing with everyone how our #GBTuesdays group is totally kicking butt and having so much fun together! I loved making people smile and inspiring them to do great things. I would do it over and over again in a heartbeat.

Thanks to Austyn Elizabeth Photography for capturing my presentation. I don’t know how you got a photo of my hands actually looking normal (they are usually all over the place) but I’m so grateful for all your wonderful images!!

This next photo makes me want to cry. Cry big, giant, ugly tears of joy. These leaders, these people are SO incredible. They are all genuinely kind, sweet, wonderful people who truly want to make their communities a better place. I loved meeting each and every one of them. I hated saying good-bye and I wish I could see and hang out with them every weekend.

Leaders – I hope you all know how much you have changed my life. Keep doing what you’re doing. Keep inspiring others. Keep building up your groups. Keep making waves. You are all so amazing and you make me want to be a better leader and a better person. I am beyond grateful to know you all.

Thank you to all our speakers for sharing your knowledge and inspiring us all.
Meredith Staggers // Lauren Carnes // Jackie Mangiolino // Natalie Franke Hayes // Krista Jones // Katherine Schmoyer // Annamarie Akins // Jeff Kaylor // Josh Newton // Amy & Jordan Demos // Laura Nestler

Thank you to our amazing vendors for making this retreat possible!
Venue: No. 5 Faber // Bar: Icebox // Dessert: Brown’s Court Bakery // Rentals: Snyder Events // Linens: Kate Ryan Linens // Florals: Charleston Stems // Signage: Britt Bates // DJ & Sound: Other Brother Entertainment // Mugs: Creative at Heart Shop // Sponsor: HoneyBook // Photos: Austyn Elizabeth Photography// Gift Bags: Marigold & Grey // Shirts: Kelly Berry