The Foundery Retreat

Creative Coaching

Private coaching & group strategy sessions to help you break through those limiting beliefs & strategize about your next steps

Quiet Space

Built-in time in a cozy, historic farmhouse to dream, plan, and find new ways to support your business and yourself

Kind-Hearted Community

Inspiring conversations and thoughtful suggestions from fellow entrepreneurs who share your values and support your goals

Retreats changed my life.

A few years ago, I started attending retreats for the first time: first to Nurture, and later on DIY retreats that I organized with my friends a few times a year. The first few times I went, I'd feel guilty about taking time off from work and worried about "wasting" time when I had so many looming deadlines and urgent requests. I felt like I couldn't afford to take a step back from my business long enough to examine it more clearly.

Turns out, I couldn't afford not to take a step back from my business. Each and every time I've gone on a retreat, I've experienced enormous shifts in my perspective, my offerings, my habits and my practices. It sounds dramatic, I know! But if anything, it's an understatement of how I really feel. There is truly nothing like focused, dedicated, compassionate time & attention to create massive change in our lives. And when you throw a handful of thoughtful, creative people into the mix? The game is changed.

I'm hosting this retreat because I believe that creating this kind of space in our lives is essential. I believe in the power of togetherness and have seen the shifts that happen when we're witnessed & supported by our peers. I want to bring together interesting people, give them space to grow, and watch the magic happen.

PS. If this particular retreat is not for you, I encourage you to create one of your own! All my best tips for setting up a DIY retreat, right this way.

The best part of The Foundery was being able to see myself the way others do. To have my strength and capability and progress reflected back to me. I felt seen and supported by this group of women, and that alone was invaluable each week. That's why this program changed me, because it was a constant dose of perspective.

I was able to see the difficulties and fears that would have derailed me for weeks previously (or, honestly, made me give up all together) for what they were...figureoutable and completely normal. The Foundery has instilled in me the feeling that my dream is worthy and worth it and totally possible if I put in the work.

Kate Smalley | Craft Uncommon

All meals & snacks at The Foundery Retreat will be provided by Sonja Seiler of Nurture.

Sonja is passionate about working with food as a tool for storytelling, creating a seamless experience that enhances connection through the act of sharing intentional, creative meals. From the ingredients to the styling and presentation, everything Nurture creates will be designed support & nourish us and our work together.

Nurture menus are vegetarian – inspired by a whole foods, seasonal approach featuring local, organic produce. All allergies and food sensitivities will be fully accommodated.

Photo by Katie Benfey Photography

I have most appreciated the in person piece of this experience and being led by such as an amazing and talented woman like Stephanie. It's so rare to find a business coach who is also has the tech skills to fix things on the spot so that you don't get stuck in the "technicalities".

I also loved the size of the group. It was intimate and small which allowed for a lot of in depth sharing and personal attention. Stephanie inspires you to give it your best shot and she'll be there to pick up the falling pieces.

Dimple Mukherjee | Coach & Speaker

How many spots are there at the retreat?

There are five spots available! Three people will stay in private rooms, and two people will share a double-wide bunk bed.

Is the retreat limited to people who have taken part in The Foundery?

Nope! It shares the same name as my group program because we'll be using the same format we use in our group strategy sessions. Also, the name "foundery" is meant to represent forging stronger business connections, which applies just as much at a retreat as it does in the program!

What if someone uses my business ideas or shares my private information?

The very practical answer is that everyone who attends The Foundery Retreat (including myself) will sign a non-disclosure agreement that pertains to what we discuss in our sessions. But the real answer is that every person who joins The Foundery will be someone who believes that collaboration is more important than competition and understands that there is enough to go around. Also, each entrepreneur's business will be so different that borrowing similar techniques or ideas would never take away from what you're doing.

How long is the retreat?

The retreat will run from late afternoon on Friday, February 21 to mid-afternoon on Sunday, February 23rd.

What will happen in the group sessions?

Each attendee will get time in the "hot seat" to bring a big topic to the group and get feedback, ideas and suggestions. If there's an offering you've been dreaming about, or a goal you're scared to name, our group sessions will be an awesome opportunity to voice it! This is where the magic happens. You'll also learn so much from the other attendees' hot seats!

How do I get to Cobblestone?

Transportation is not included in the cost of the retreat, but ride sharing with your fellow attendees is also encouraged! The Cobourg VIA Rail station is also a short distance away from the retreat centre!

I'm not an entrepreneur, can I still take part?

This is primarily designed to be a working retreat for entrepreneurs to work on their businesses. If you don't have a business you'd be working on, please get in touch first to see whether this retreat would be a good fit for you!

I'm dairy/gluten/nut-free, can I still come?

Of course! My friend Sonja is devoted to making food that everyone can eat and enjoy. Just tell us your restrictions when you choose your room & we'll whip up something delicious for you.

Is alcohol included?

We'll have wine for our group dinner on Saturday night, but otherwise please feel free to bring your own drinks! Note that we'll have tea & coffee, but all other drinks are welcome.

What should I bring with me?

You'll get way more information by email before the retreat, but here are some essentials: your computer, a notebook (or multiple), cozy clothes, a good book, your favourite pens, all the coloured markers, your fave tarot or oracle deck. Oh, and winter boots so that we can trek across the lawn to see the horses!

Why is this retreat called The Foundery?

This is another Sonja Seiler original! A foundry is a place where metal is forged, and we loved the idea that The Foundery Retreat could be a place where stronger, better businesses and authentic connections could be forged!

Steph is a beautiful, playful, encourager, really allowing those who have the privilege of working with her to develop inner courage and confidence in what they do and what they can offer.

It is hard to describe to people what she does, as her skills and strengths are diverse, ranging from motivational, highly creative big-picture offerings, to practical, focused, detail-oriented attention.

I have needed and benefited immensely from all of it. And enjoyed every moment.

It's time to work on your business, not just in it.

How would you feel about a weekend full of:

Creative Coaching

Quiet Space

Kind-Hearted Community