First Impressions of The Land of Enchantment
I was absolutely buzzing for my first-ever trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico (actually, my first venture into New Mexico altogether!). Thanks to the incredible Justin Cox from the Santa Fe CVB, who graciously collected me from Albuquerque airport and played personal tour guide during our hour-long drive into the city. Pro tip: While Santa Fe does have its own airport, it's quite small with limited flights, so most visitors fly into ABQ.

During our drive, Justin shared fascinating tidbits about the region's surprisingly high elevation (more on my battle with that later!), the nearby southern Rocky Mountains where you can actually ski (yes, it snows there!), the reservations along our route, the "other" Las Vegas in New Mexico, and the Sandia mountain range – meaning "watermelon" in Spanish due to the stunning sunsets that paint the hills in vibrant watermelon hues.

Entering downtown Santa Fe felt like stepping through a time portal into a different era and culture – one I'd only glimpsed in films before. Home to America's oldest church, the city's adobe pueblo buildings line narrow streets and rarely exceed 3-4 stories. I'll admit, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from New Mexico's capital – perhaps taller, more modern structures with a typical city vibe? Instead, I was delightfully surprised by how dedicated this wonderful town is to preserving its deep cultural heritage and history. Beyond downtown, the surrounding areas feel refreshingly rural, with expansive open spaces, horses, and charming ranch-style homes.

If you think wellness retreats are all green juice and silent meditation, let me be the first to tell you—you're delightfully mistaken. As a passionate member of SITE Northern California (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence) and someone who's navigated her own health journey, I can confirm that when wellness meets incentive travel, magic happens. And sometimes, that magic involves wine. (Hey, it's Napa, after all!)

When Passion Meets Purpose
My journey to wellness advocacy wasn't exactly straightforward. After battling severe health issues in my late 20s/early 30s, I emerged with a newfound perspective and a mission: to integrate genuine wellness experiences into the travel and events industry. Beginning my wellness certifications in 2013 and re-entering the events world in 2016 after a five-year "health sabbatical," I've been on a mission to redefine what wellness means in the context of exceptional travel experiences.
Fast forward to 2020, and I proudly added both CITP (Certified Incentive Travel Professional) and CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) to my credentials. Because if you're going to advocate for something, you might as well become an expert, right?

While summer in Sonoma certainly has its charms, there's something undeniably magical about this wine country paradise when the temperatures drop. As your resident event and travel planning guru with an eye for the extraordinary, let me share why Sonoma County should be at the top of your cool-weather destination list – especially if you're craving boutique luxury experiences that go beyond the typical wine tour.
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The Stavrand: Where Luxury Meets Laid-Back Perfection
Let's start with a property that stole my heart faster than you can say "pour me another glass." The Stavrand isn't just a hotel – it's a six-acre sanctuary that earned its Michelin Guide "exceptional" Two Key rating for good reason.
With just 21 rooms, this intimate estate is the perfect buyout opportunity for private retreats. Corporate teams seeking a transformative offsite or social groups celebrating special occasions will find themselves enveloped in attentive yet refreshingly unpretentious service.
My favorite touches? The daily welcome wine tasting happy hour from 5-6pm in their lobby (because why wait until dinner?) and the adorable s'mores kits for their fire pits. Pro tip: If you charm the staff, they might even open their wine tasting bar exclusively for your group after hours. Talk about VIP treatment!
The property's Russian River location puts you just ten minutes from charming Guerneville and within easy reach of coastal beaches, redwood hikes, and some of California's finest tasting rooms. But honestly, with the level of high-touch hospitality we experienced, you might never want to leave the grounds. Forest bathing in the redwoods, anyone?

​The Madrona: Where History Meets Contemporary Elegance
For those who appreciate properties with a story to tell, The Madrona wraps you in magic from the moment you arrive. This stately manor welcomes curious travelers with an experience drenched in beauty, style, and thoughtful details.
I stayed in one of the carriage house rooms, which featured an artistic foyer wall design made with actual horse hair (talk about conversation starter!), heated bathroom floors (heaven during cooler months), a charming old-time radio, and fresh oranges plucked straight from property trees.
The restaurant boasts two Michelin stars, making it a culinary destination in its own right. Between gorgeous spaces perfect for intimate events and the possibility of learning to saber a champagne bottle (yes, that happened!), The Madrona delivers unforgettable experiences alongside its impeccable wine list. And if you're really lucky, you might find a whiskey and chocolate pairing waiting in your quarters after dinner.

​Farmhouse Inn: Authentic Sonoma Luxury with Deep Roots
For good reason, Farmhouse Inn has been rated among California's top hotels and was once ranked #8 in the world by Travel + Leisure. Beyond the luxurious accommodations – ranging from spacious suites with vaulted ceilings and woodland views to charming, cozy retreats – what makes this property special is its authentic connection to Sonoma.
Owned by fifth-generation Sonoma farmers still deeply involved in the property experience, Farmhouse Inn offers connections that chain hotels simply can't match. A stay here feels less like checking into a luxury resort and more like joining a particularly stylish family with exceptional taste.
Don't miss the Wellness Barn, where holistic treatments incorporating local remedies provide the perfect antidote to our chaotic world. It's a space designed for slowing down, connecting with nature, and finding your unique balance – essential components for any successful retreat.

​DaVero Farms & Winery: Where Sustainability Meets Absolutely Adorable Pigs
If you're looking for a venue that combines wine, food, and nature with a commitment to sustainability, DaVero Farms & Winery in Healdsburg delivers all that and more. Their biodynamic approach to farming and traditional winemaking methods produce Italian varietal wines and olive oils that truly express the terroir.
Their versatile spaces accommodate up to 200 guests, making it ideal for celebrations, corporate events, or educational seminars. But let's get to what you really want to know – yes, their pigs are ABSOLUTELY ADORABLE! I'm also still dreaming about their flavored olive oils and balsamics available in the gift shop. Trust me on this: do not leave without experiencing their wine and cheese & charcuterie pairings. Beg, if you have to, but best to plan ahead!

​Vintners Resort: The Quintessential Wine Country Sanctuary
With 92 acres at your disposal, Vintners Resort transforms into your private sanctuary, complete with an Event Center boasting 10,000 square feet of indoor space plus gorgeous event lawns and outdoor venues that can host up to 250 guests. For the ultimate exclusive experience, their 78-room property is available for buyouts, giving your group complete access to restaurants, spa, and recreational amenities. Fill a relaxing day with strolls through the vineyard trail, rejuvenating spa treatments, and a friendly bocce ball competition. Don't miss John Ash, one of Sonoma's pioneering farm-to-table restaurants overlooking vineyard views. Lunch was delicious and the scene was breathtaking, even on a cloudy day!
 
Culinary Adventures: The Matheson & Roof 106
No luxury retreat is complete without exceptional dining, and The Matheson and Roof 106 in Healdsburg Plaza deliver in spades. Chefs Nate Davis and Dustin Valette have created a kitchen of creative collaboration, with an ever-changing menu reflecting micro-seasonal offerings that celebrate the land.
For a truly special evening with your group, opt for the chef's menu with wine pairings – your guests will thank you later. And you absolutely must try their clarified margarita – so crystal clear it looks like water but packs all the flavor – you have to taste it to believe it! The Mezzanine private dining space, floating above the main kitchen, provides the perfect vibrant yet intimate setting for winemaker dinners or corporate gatherings.

Ready to Elevate Your Sonoma Experience?
Whether you're planning a corporate retreat that actually gets results, a luxury incentive trip that motivates top performers, or a wellness getaway that rejuvenates body and soul, Sonoma County offers boutique experiences that go far beyond wine tasting (though there's plenty of that too!).
The cooler months reveal a different side of wine country – one where fireside chats, misty morning walks, and intimate indoor gatherings create connections that last long after the trip ends.
Ready to craft your perfect Sonoma County experience? As someone who's explored these hidden gems firsthand, I'd love to help you discover the perfect property and experiences for your next event or retreat. Because when it comes to luxury travel planning, sometimes you need someone who knows which pigs are the cutest and where to find that perfect glass of pinot noir.
Need help planning your next luxury retreat or event in Sonoma County? Let's chat about creating an unforgettable experience tailored to your unique needs!

There's something magical about stepping into a landscape that feels entirely new to your senses. The earthy tones, the quality of light, the expansive skies—this was my experience visiting New Mexico for the first time recently. As I explored the artistic streets of Santa Fe and soaked in the vibrant culture of Albuquerque, I was captivated not just as a traveler but as an event planner constantly on the lookout for extraordinary retreat destinations.
But today, I'm not here to tell you about the turquoise jewelry or the red chile ristras (though trust me, we'll get to those soon enough)! Instead, I want to share a personal wellness challenge I encountered—and the natural solution that saved my sleep.

When Elevation Meets Heart Rate: My Nighttime Challenge
Picture this: Days filled with exploration, adobe architecture, and green chile everything. I felt fantastic wandering through galleries and markets, seemingly adapting well to the high elevation of Santa Fe (7,000 feet above sea level!) and Albuquerque. But when nighttime arrived and I settled into my hotel room by 9pm, my body had different plans.
Despite feeling physically tired, my heart had apparently joined a drumming circle of its own! As someone who carefully monitors my higher heart rate and blood pressure, I could immediately feel the difference—my heart was working overtime, beating harder and faster than usual as I tried to rest. Hour after hour passed (hotel room by 9pm, sleep nowhere in sight until around 1am), leaving me staring at the ceiling, all too aware of each pronounced heartbeat.

My Natural Travel Companion to the Rescue
This is where I'm eternally grateful for my travel wellness kit. As I've been a doTERRA wellness advocate for several years, I started packing mini travel bottles of doTERRA essential oils for various situations.
One small bottle became my nighttime hero: Ylang Ylang essential oil.

For several years, I've relied on this floral wonder to help naturally reduce my heart rate when needed. That first restless night in New Mexico, I remembered my trusted ally. With gentle, intentional movements, I applied a few drops in a circular motion over my chest area for about a minute, while taking slow deep breaths.

The effect wasn't instantaneous magic—but it was something better: gentle, natural support. Within about 10-15 minutes, I could feel my heart rate decrease by approximately 10 BPM. Just enough to quiet that internal drumbeat and allow sleep to finally find me.

Pushpak Motors: Sonoma's Unexpected Thrill Ride
Let me share my absolute favorite Sonoma discovery from the past year: Pushpak Motors. This unique experience (https://www.pushpakmotors.net/) completely transformed my understanding of what a Sonoma outing could be.

Imagine this: your group cruising through scenic back roads on eco-friendly motorized trikes, wind in your hair, surrounded by vineyard vistas. What makes this experience truly exceptional is its versatility. From corporate team-building events where executives trade boardroom tensions for belly laughs as they master their scooters, to birthday celebrations where friends create unforgettable memories zipping between wineries and picturesque viewpoints.

The experience works best during Sonoma's warmer months (typically April through October), when clear skies and moderate temperatures create ideal riding conditions. What's particularly appealing for event planners is how Pushpak Motors can customize routes based on your group's interests, whether that's hitting specific wineries, focusing on scenic vistas, or creating a progressive dining experience.

Charlie's Acres: Where Corporate Social Responsibility Meets Joy
For groups looking to add meaning to their Sonoma experience, Charlie's Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary offers a refreshing alternative to traditional team-building activities. This haven for rescued farm animals provides corporate groups with a unique opportunity to combine team building with corporate social responsibility.

Groups groups can connect while learning about animal welfare and sustainable farming practices. The sanctuary's spacious event areas make it ideal for company retreats that aim to incorporate purpose-driven activities. Watching executives and team members light up while interacting with the sanctuary's charismatic residents—from playful goats to gentle pigs—creates authentic bonding moments that simply can't be manufactured in a conference room.
The combination of meaningful engagement and pure joy makes Charlie's Acres sanctuary a standout destination for groups seeking experiences with heart.

​Sonoma's Wine Experiences: Beyond the Ordinary
While vineyard visits are expected in wine country, certain estates offer experiences that transcend the typical tasting. I'd love to share a couple of hidden gems that you may miss if you pay too much attention to the bigger labels:

Landmark Vineyards: Elevated Elegance
Landmark Vineyards stands out for its exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir offerings, but what makes it particularly special for events is its gorgeous courtyard setting. The vineyard's hospitality team excels at customizing experiences, whether you're seeking a guided comparative tasting for wine enthusiasts or a more casual setting for team celebrations.

Paradise Ridge Winery: Panoramic Perfection
Perched atop a hill with breathtaking views of the Russian River Valley, Paradise Ridge Winery offers some of the most spectacular vistas in Sonoma County. The winery's expansive indoor and outdoor spaces make it extraordinarily versatile for events ranging from corporate gatherings to milestone celebrations.

I particularly recommend this venue for sunset receptions—there's something magical about watching the golden light bathe the valley while sipping their estate wines. The winery's sculpture garden adds an artistic element that creates natural conversation starters for networking events or breakout sessions.

The Sonoma Cheese Trail: A Tasty Team Adventure
If you know me at all, you know I LOVE cheese, so how could I not get excited about the Sonoma Cheese Trail? For groups seeking a delicious alternative to wine tasting, Sonoma's artisanal cheese scene offers a delightful change of pace. I often incorporate cheese trail stops into custom itineraries, creating progressive tasting experiences that highlight the county's dairy excellence. Here are a couple of my favorite highlights: 

Vella Cheese Company: A Taste of Tradition
This historic cheesemaking facility in Sonoma Plaza has been crafting artisanal cheeses since 1931. Their aged dry jack cheese with its distinctive black coating is legendary. For corporate groups, I've arranged behind-the-scenes tours where teams can learn about the meticulous aging process while sampling their extraordinary creations.

Sonoma Cheese Factory: Contemporary Craft
Complementing Vella's traditional approach, the Sonoma Cheese Factory showcases more contemporary cheesemaking techniques. Their interactive tastings are particularly effective for breaking the ice among team members or clients who are just getting acquainted. I love pairing a visit here with a guided wine pairing session afterward, creating a progressive epicurean experience.

Recently, I found myself immersed in an audiobook about food and mental health that challenged my personal views and habits about nutrition. As someone with certifications in nutrition who embraces a predominantly plant-based lifestyle, listening to a staunch advocate for keto and carnivore diets felt like venturing into uncomfortable territory.

My first instinct? *Cringe* Maybe I can return it... But if I wanted to walk my talk about being open to other perspectives that don't necessarily align with my own, I had to keep listening.

Tucked away where California and Nevada meet, Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking destination—a vast, sapphire-blue lake cradled by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. Just a short 40-minute drive from Reno’s major airport, your journey to this stunning alpine retreat is as scenic as the destination itself.
At OmniEra, we specialize in curating unforgettable incentive travel experiences and transformative retreats, so revisiting Lake Tahoe post-pandemic was a must. And let me tell you, this mountain paradise continues to impress with its endless charm and versatility.
Whether you’re looking for vibrant energy or serene relaxation, Lake Tahoe offers an array of accommodations to suit your vision. Indulge in the lively atmosphere of Nevada’s iconic casino resorts like the Golden Nugget and Harvey’s, or opt for a cozy, intimate escape at The Coachman Hotel. No matter the season, there’s a perfect lakeside setting for you.

DEIA policies and practices offer a host of advantages that drive business success and financial growth. Here are five key ways DEIA makes good business sense:

1. Enhanced Innovation
   Diverse teams bring a wealth of perspectives, sparking creativity and innovative problem-solving. This leads to groundbreaking ideas and unique solutions that give businesses a competitive edge, fueling long-term growth.
2. Access to a Broader Talent Pool
   Embracing DEIA opens the door to a wider range of qualified candidates from all backgrounds. By attracting top talent, businesses boost efficiency, performance, and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.
3. Improved Employee Engagement
   When employees feel valued and included, they thrive. A culture of equity and accessibility improves job satisfaction, boosts productivity, and reduces costly turnover. Happy employees create a powerful foundation for sustainable business growth.
4. Stronger Customer Connections
   A diverse workforce reflects and understands the diverse global customer base. This strengthens relationships, drives loyalty, and opens doors to new markets. Notably, the disabled community alone accounts for an estimated $8 trillion in disposable income annually—$13 trillion when including their friends and family. Businesses that embrace accessibility can tap into this massive market.
5. Better Decision-Making
   Inclusive teams make well-rounded, informed decisions. By considering diverse viewpoints, they develop smarter strategies, reduce risks, and achieve better outcomes, ultimately maximizing profitability.

DEIA isn’t just about doing what’s right—it’s about doing what’s smart. It’s a strategic investment in innovation, talent, and growth, ensuring businesses not only survive but thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

Let us know your thoughts. 

Earlier this January, the Northern California and Napa-Sonoma Chapters of ILEA (International Live Event Association) led their annual joint program at the Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina with a very important theme: Mental Wellness, particularly focusing on those of us in events and hospitality, but a key topic for us all.

Shining a light on mental wellness and reducing the stigma is a much needed push we need to continue to have in our society. While everyone in any occupation is affected, those of us in hospitality and live events face a unique type of challenge with both being one of the top 5 most stressful jobs reported year after year, and in such a public facing role where we all need to be "on" all the time. (The world is burning! ...As we have a big grin on our face to make everyone else feel like things are going smoothly). 

I was thankful to share my story briefly alongside fellow speakers Jill McDonald, Patrick McMichael and Elizabeth Becker. Each of us has gone through a transformation in our lives from a mental health perspective and are now able to share to give strength and hope to others that may be struggling with similar processes. After my introduction I was able to lead the group through a short exercise in becoming mindful and present at the beginning of the program to set the tone and intention for the rest of the program, which included activities such as sharing circles that I was able to lead one of the two. I must say, I don't think I've ever attended an event with such transparency, vulnerability, strength and support as this one! It truly took the attendees having a safe place in which to share their own stories, create connections, and help each other with suggestions and ideas on how to get through the difficult times and experiences that we all must face at one time or another. 

The joint program featured healthy meal and snack offerings, as well as a variety of delicious (not sugar overloaded!) healthy mocktails alongside the always highlighted signature cocktails from Chris Evans Catering and San Francisco Cocktail Club. There were areas to have a quiet reflective space, a beautiful sunset walk along the marina, and plenty of networking time for everyone to regroup and connect on their experience and how we can continue to support each other's businesses. 

Thank you to everyone who helped make this event possible. It was a perfect example how what we need to do, how we need to do it, and why it is so needed in our work and homelives, especially these days!
Thanks to our other event sponsors: The Lux Productions, CORT Rentals, AM Party Rentals, Snap Fiesta, Peace of Kate and Duy Ho Photography.