Do you ever have that feeling like your heart is ready to burst from so much joy? That in any moment, you could just cry from being so happy and inspired? That’s how I feel after returning from the Rising Tide Society Leaders Retreat. It was my third retreat, the first one was in Charleston when RTS was just a baby and the second one in San Fransisco where I was reunited with so many friends. But this retreat… this one was different. I flew home yesterday and as I crawled into my bed last night, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this past week in New Orleans was life-changing.

Set right outside the Garden District of New Orleans, Rising Tide Society leaders from around the world gathered together. For two days, we dove into deep discussions of what it means to be a leader. We listened to amazing speakers who inspired and pushed us. We engaged in thrilling one-on-one conversations, learning everything we could from one another. We explored all the beauty that NOLA had to offer. But my favorite part was that we were real and vulnerable with each other. We shared the struggles and difficulties with leading. How sometimes putting all that time and work into leading can feel thankless. We confided in one another and reminded each other that we’re not alone.

I cannot thank HoneyBook or Rising Tide Society enough for this amazing retreat. I left feeling renewed and refreshed for 2018. Thank you to our awesome sponsors, TravelBank and Weebly. Without their support none of this would have been possible. I’m grateful for everyone who volunteered their time and their skills to make this retreat happen, especially the incredible Jessica Chang who planned just about everything!

I’m so thankful to know so many inspiring leaders. Listening to their stories, seeing their heart for serving – it astonishes me how selflessly they give. All of you leaders are the reason I want to be a better leader. Your kindness and generosity towards one another and your groups makes me want to do more. I hope you all know how valuable and wonderful you are. You are dreamers and trailblazers and world shakers. You matter! You are making your mark in your communities and never forget that by what you are doing, you ARE making a difference.

You are doing big, important things! Go out and continue to make waves, my friends!

How cute was our adorable little AirBnb we stayed at during our time in NOLA?!

Bourbon Street with some awesome leaders!

Seriously, how gorgeous was this space?!

Green Bay’s Rising Tide Society made it into the slideshow!

I’m convinced New Orleans only has amazing food!

Ahh, the lady with the sweetest soul, Josefina!

My roomie and one of my “favourite” Canadians, the incredible Jenn Kavanagh!

Some of the original group of leaders! We miss our other leader friends who couldn’t make it!

Oh boy, thankfully you can’t see me now but I’m crying thinking about this awesome woman right here. Natalie, you are such a positive light in this world. Without you, Rising Tide Society would have been just a dream. Thank you for fighting for us and always making sure our core values are represented. I am SO thankful for your kindness and your friendship. You make the world a better place just by being in it!

Okay, here I go sobbing again! Mary, I don’t know if I can ever thank you enough for all you’ve done for me. For almost a decade you have inspired me, taught me, and pushed me to be a better photographer and a better person. I admire your kind heart and willingness to help others. I hope you know just how much to mean to all of us!

NOLA ghost tours are serious business! So spooky!

Bring on the beignets!

Masquerade Ball at Hot Tin!

The coolest spot in all the land and my new favorite place!

Love this girl!! Sirena, I miss you!

Thank you to everyone who helped make this Retreat possible!

Venue: Pontchartrain Hotel // Planning Logistics: Logan Doerries // Gala Photographer: Trevor Mark // Stickers: The Nap Time Artist // Agate Placard Calligraphy: Romey Marie // Cards: Lily and Grey // Florist: Antigua Floral // Session Photographer: Madison Short // Signage Calligrapher: Anna Kornick // Balloon Installation: Badass Balloon Co.