The Lucky Mamas Retreat

Join the waitlist here.
 

Overview: In 2016, Liz Plachta of Ruby’s Rainbow and Heather Avis gathered a group of 24 mothers of children with Down syndrome for a weekend of rest and meaningful connection, calling it The Lucky Mamas Retreat. Since that original trip, “lucky mamas” have been quickly filling the roster and waitlist for the annual Austin, TX getaway. In August 2022, Heather and Liz decided to bring a version of the retreat to San Diego county, where both first-timers and returning mamas could enjoy a weekend to recharge and find inspiration amongst fellow moms of kids with Down syndrome. 

The retreat includes three nights in the stylishly appointed rooms of The Oaks, deliciously prepared farm-to-table meals and beverages, wine, cocktails, and snacks throughout the weekend, and access to amenities like firepits, 2 miles of private hiking trails, and various hammocks and rocking chairs overlooking acres of picturesque greenery. The Oaks perfectly pairs lux accommodations with the natural beauty of the remote Ramona foothills.

The cost of the retreat covers accommodations for 3 nights, all meals and beverages (including wine and cocktails) and all activities. 

Testimonials

“What didn’t I love?! The off -the-grid location, all the moms, the low pressure to participate and just BE, the food, everything!”

”A place to have real conversations with women who get it.

“Such an incredible experience. I really didn’t think I’d walk away so connected to people I didn’t know prior. Thank you for emphasizing community!”
 
“It was really fun, I felt so welcomed, and again, I just wish I could have an entire week with everyone (or at least an extra day)”

“I think every one of us needed this more than we knew!”

“Loved yoga under the stars and cocktail hour(s)”

”A place to find “total acceptance.”

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Retreat Format

The weekend begins with a late afternoon meet and-greet as attendees arrive, leading up to the first sit-down dinner and after-dinner cocktail party (casual dress code!).

Friday and Saturday mornings begin with a leisurely breakfast and coffee hosted in our dorm building (feel free to sleep in and show up in pjs!), followed by days filled with reflection and writing exercises led by storytelling expert and coach Katie Quesada,  a hayride to the equestrian center where you can get up close and personal with the property’s resident race horses, goats, and highland cows, and an incredible sunset yoga session that you will not want to miss!

Free time is scattered throughout the weekend, leaving ample space to explore the stunning grounds of the foothills, sit by the pool, enjoy a glass of wine while chatting with old and new friends, or finally get some alone time to practice self-care.

This weekend is specially geared toward providing moms a weekend to relax and bond with others who truly understand the beautiful and difficult journey of motherhood in the Down syndrome sphere. We know how taxing it can be to juggle doctor’s appointments, medical needs, therapy sessions, IEPs, etc... and we know moms of children with DS need extra support and self-care. The Lucky Mamas retreat is geared to provide just that, with a special emphasis in connecting moms with others who have been in their shoes. 

Please sign up for a waitlist spot here.