This retreat is designed to be a truly inclusive and affirming space for individuals of all identities. Understanding the diverse needs of our community, we are crafting a program that celebrates intersectionality and promotes genuine connection. Any antagonistic or abusive behavior will not be tolerated.
We're intentionally considering details to ensure that folks of all backgrounds—including those from LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, disabled, and other marginalized communities—feel genuinely seen, valued, and safe. Our goal is to foster an environment of humility and shared growth, allowing every participant to relax, recharge, and build meaningful relationships.
Please note: This property features multiple levels accessible only by stairs, as there is no elevator. We want to ensure all guests are aware of this for accessibility planning.
Who is this retreat intended for?
The retreat is intended for any Chicago area event planner or coordinator that has an established business or has been working in the industry for a minimum of one (1) year.
How many attendees will be at the retreat?
We expect 15-20 planners to attend the retreat. The goal to ensure we foster an environment to make real connections with other planners.
How should I prepare for the retreat?
Please come ready to be open to new ideas and sharing what has worked for you. More information about the program will be shared with registered attendees closer to the event date.
This is a Not for Profit Retreat
This retreat is hosted by event planners for event planners and is AT COST to all attendees.
Where is the retreat?
The retreat is being hosted at vacation home in Michigan City, IN. The exact location will be sent to all full-registered attendees. More about the home itself can be found here.
How do I get to the retreat? Are there car pooling or public transportation options?
Options for parking include:
1) Driving only yourself in your own car, or
2) Driving yourself in your own car and bringing another attendee with you (carpooling). They will contribute to fuel expenses, or
3) Riding with one of the attendees who will be driving to the retreat (carpooling). You will contribute to fuel expenses, or
4) Taking the South Shore Line train to Michigan City, IN and one of the planning committee team members will pick you up and bring you to the retreat house.
Is there parking?
There is free street parking for anyone driving to the retreat. For attendees who will be commuting in to the retreat each day (not staying overnight), there will be designated parking assigned to you.
What are the sleeping arrangements for attendees staying overnight?
The retreat is being hosted at a large vacation home. Sleeping arrangements will vary. Each attendee will need to register for a room or bed. This home hosts 2 king bed bedrooms with ensuites, 1 queen room with private bathroom adjacent, 2 rooms with twin beds with an adjacent bathroom, and one basement sofa bed with adjacent bathroom. Attendees may book a room and share it with another attendee or book a bed. Shared bed will need to be booked by one attendee and the sharing piece coordinated with their attendee of choice. We will NOT assign two people to a bed. We will take into consideration roommate requests for rooms with multiple beds. Attendees staying overnight will need to register for one sleeping arrangement option. The sleeping arrangement registration does NOT include your retreat attendee fee.
What are the meal arrangements?
Meals, drinks and snacks will be provided throughout the retreat (8 total meals). We will accommodate for dietary needs. Attendees are welcome to bring additional snacks and drinks for just themselves (no judgment) or to share. But trust us - there will be lots of snacks!
Is alcohol okay?
Alcohol is totally ok. While the fee does not include the cost of alcohol, you are welcome to bring some for yourself or some to share. We request that you reserve drinking it to the appropriate times.
What should I bring?
Attendees should bring whatever they need to feel comfortable in a collaborative setting. This may include a laptop, notebook, writing utensils. For any attendee staying overnight, they should bring their overnight bag and necessary accessories. The house has linens, towels, and other basic items.
Attire? What should I wear?
Come as you are! Come comfortable. The retreat fosters a very comfortable and casual setting. Last year, most attendees came in yoga pants, etc.! Bring one nice outfit for a group photo.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes, Wi-Fi will be available at the retreat location.
Do you have a question we didn't address above?
Contact the planning committee at chicagoplannerretreat@gmail.com.