(photo by: Ashley)
Just a few weeks ago, I embarked on a memorable journey westward to the picturesque mountains of Park City, Utah, to participate in the highly anticipated Inspired Retreat. While I had visited this stunning neighboring state on one prior occasion, my excitement was palpable for this particular trip. The prospect of connecting with an incredible group of talented food bloggers was a huge draw. Among the amazing women joining were Carrian, Lauren, Annalise, Megan, Deb, Meagan, Alyssa, Becky, Nikki, Barbara, Ashley, and Kristy. Beyond the camaraderie, I was also eager to hit the ski slopes and, most importantly, to rediscover and reignite my creative passion for blogging. This retreat promised a blend of adventure, learning, and genuine inspiration, making it an unmissable event for any dedicated food content creator seeking renewed purpose.
The fundamental vision behind the Inspired Retreat was to help us all reconnect with the initial spark that led us to start blogging. For many of us, our blogs began as a joyful hobby, a creative outlet where ideas could freely flow and culinary experiments could come to life. However, as blogs grow and evolve, it’s easy to lose sight of that original passion amidst the demands of content creation, social media, and technicalities. This retreat, meticulously organized by the wonderfully talented Carrian from Oh Sweet Basil, served as a crucial opportunity. It brought together a small, intimate group of women, fostering a safe and supportive environment where we could truly connect, openly share our experiences, challenges, and aspirations, and ultimately redefine what truly matters in our blogging journeys. It was a chance to strip away the noise and remember the core values that drive us.
After two intensely fulfilling days, I departed from the Inspired Retreat feeling energized and enriched. I carried with me not only a wealth of invaluable information and actionable insights but also the warmth of newly forged friendships. Most significantly, I left with a remarkably clearer and more focused understanding of my goals and the direction I wish to pursue with my own platform, CGM. It was a transformative experience that offered both personal growth and professional clarity. The bonds formed and the knowledge shared during this period were truly exceptional, promising lasting impacts on my work and my perspective.
Shall we take a delightful journey back through the highlights of this unforgettable retreat?
Our adventure commenced on a crisp Friday afternoon as we all converged in the charming town of Park City. The weather was undeniably frigid, with temperatures plummeting into the teens, reminding us we were in the heart of winter wonderland. Our first order of business, a collective decision driven by both hunger and the need for warmth, was to indulge in some delicious pizza pie at Vinto’s. This casual and cozy spot provided the perfect setting to thaw out before heading to our luxurious retreat house. It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up and bond with some fellow local Salt Lake City food bloggers who joined us for the evening: Heidi from Foodie Crush, Kelley from Mountain Mama Cooks, and Maria from Two Peas and their Pod. The conversations flowed as easily as the delicious food, setting a wonderful tone for the weekend ahead.
With our bellies happily full and our spirits lifted by good company, we made our way to the stunning house that would serve as our sanctuary for the duration of the weekend. And what a magnificent place it was! Upon arrival, gasps of admiration filled the air. Isn’t she an absolute beauty? This exquisite home was strategically located in one of my all-time favorite vacation destinations: Deer Valley. If you’ve never had the pleasure of experiencing Deer Valley, I implore you to book your trip immediately and go! From its world-class amenities and pristine slopes to its exceptional dining and unparalleled service, Deer Valley truly has it all. And that’s coming straight from a Colorado girl, someone who knows a thing or two about premier mountain resorts. It’s a place where every detail is considered, ensuring a luxurious and unforgettable experience for every visitor.
(photo by: Carrian)
The interior of the house was a feast for the eyes, thoughtfully and beautifully decorated by a local Utah establishment, Rod Works. Their festive touches transformed the space, making it feel less like a rental and more like a real, cozy home, perfectly set for the holiday season. The twinkling lights and charming accents created an inviting atmosphere that immediately made us feel at ease. After settling in, we poured ourselves a little red vino, a perfect complement to the chilly evening, and gathered in the spacious and comfortable living room. Here, amidst the warm glow of the fireplace, we officially introduced ourselves, sharing snippets about our lives, our blogging journeys, and our immense excitement for the weekend ahead. The anticipation for the upcoming activities, especially our planned dinner, was palpable, filling the room with a joyful buzz.
Our Friday evening culminated in an extraordinary dining experience at Mariposa restaurant, exquisitely located at the mid-mountain lodge within the luxurious Deer Valley resort. I was utterly captivated by this dinner; it was truly beyond compare. Is it even possible to develop a profound affection, a genuine crush, on a vacation resort? If so, consider me madly and deeply enamored with Deer Valley. From the moment we arrived, every aspect spoke of refined elegance and exceptional service, perfectly aligning with Deer Valley’s reputation for unparalleled guest experiences. The overall ambiance and the culinary journey itself were simply breathtaking, leaving an indelible impression that cemented my admiration for this remarkable destination.
We had the privilege of dining in a private room, an intimate setting that perfectly blended rustic charm with sophisticated elegance. The decor featured warm, inviting tones, exposed wood, and subtle lighting, creating an atmosphere that felt both grand and welcoming. Before we even sat down for the main course, we enjoyed a delightful cocktail hour by a crackling fireplace. Signature drinks, expertly crafted, flowed freely, and the convivial conversation among the group made me never want to leave. It was an idyllic beginning to what promised to be an unforgettable culinary adventure, enveloping us in a bubble of warmth, luxury, and shared joy.
The specially curated menu for the evening at Mariposa was nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. We began with delicate oysters served alongside sparkling champagne, a truly indulgent start – though a few brave souls, experiencing oysters for the first time, provided some memorable reactions (and perhaps vowed to stick to solid ground!). This was followed by a rich and creamy Maine lobster chowder, a perfect antidote to the chilly evening air, brimming with sweet lobster meat. Next, we savored wild mushroom beggar’s purses, a delightful parcel of earthy flavors, and luscious burrata accompanied by ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The main courses featured perfectly pan-roasted scallops, boasting a beautiful sear and tender interior, and a succulent bison fillet, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. And for dessert? A truly unexpected and intriguing creation: chocolate salami. Yes, you read that right! It was an ingenious blend of rich chocolate and textures, providing a sweet and surprising end to the meal. I quite literally rolled out of that dinner, a supremely happy and incredibly satisfied girl, utterly spoiled by the gastronomic delights.
Saturday saw us rise early, eager to embrace the day’s activities. Some of the more zen-inclined girls headed off to a rejuvenating yoga session with Lole, finding their calm amidst the mountain air. However, yours truly, along with a fantastic team including Kristy, Barbara, and Becky, had the delightful responsibility of breakfast duty. We whipped up a grand feast before we were slated to hit the slopes. Our morning spread was generously provided by our wonderful sponsors: fresh, crunchy granola served with creamy Greek Yogurt, an assortment of vibrant seasonal fruits, and perfectly fluffy scrambled eggs, all courtesy of Pacific Foods. And to truly kickstart our day, we indulged in what I can confidently say was the best drip coffee ever, masterfully brewed by Charming Beard Coffee. It was a perfect, hearty breakfast, fueling us up for an active day in the snow.
Getting ready for the slopes was made incredibly easy and hassle-free, thanks to the fantastic ski gear provided by Ski on the Run. We were decked out head to toe in high-quality ski apparel and equipment, which significantly streamlined our morning preparations. The convenience of having everything ready and waiting allowed us more time to enjoy our breakfast and each other’s company. As we loaded up the caravan, ready to depart for the mountain, the temperature had dipped even further, registering in the single digits. The crisp, cold air only added to the invigorating feeling of anticipation for a day of skiing. The excitement was palpable as we headed towards the pristine slopes, ready to make the most of the fresh powder and beautiful scenery.
Once we arrived at the resort, the group split according to ski experience. Some of the girls, new to the sport, opted for ski lessons to gain confidence and skills on the snow. Meanwhile, the more seasoned skiers, including Becky, Annalise, and Emily – Deer Valley’s brilliant PR queen – wasted no time hitting the slopes on opening day! I absolutely adored my time skiing at Deer Valley; it truly is a luxury ski slope experience. Even though the entire mountain wasn’t yet fully open for the season, we were incredibly fortunate to ski through eight inches of glorious, fresh powder! The conditions were pristine, offering soft turns and breathtaking scenery. Every run felt like a dream, confirming Deer Valley’s reputation for exceptional snow and meticulously groomed runs, making it an ideal destination for any ski enthusiast.
With the temperature steadily dropping throughout the morning and our bellies rumbling after an invigorating ski session, we eagerly headed back to the warmth of our luxurious house. There, a sensational grilled cheese and soup bar awaited us, thoughtfully provided by our incredible sponsors: Star Fine Foods, Hamilton Beach, Wusthof, and Heber Valley Cheese. This was the ultimate comfort food after a cold day on the slopes. Imagine gooey, perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwiches paired with steaming bowls of delicious soup – a truly heavenly combination. It was exactly what we needed to warm up and recharge, eliciting shouts of “Get in my belly!” from the entire group. This cozy, satisfying lunch provided the perfect interlude before our afternoon activities, allowing us to relax and savor the simple yet profound pleasure of good food and great company.
After our thoroughly delicious and much-needed carb fest, we decided to spend the remainder of the afternoon indulging in a more relaxed session of conversation and collaboration. This part of the retreat truly deserved to be dubbed a “meeting of the minds,” because I gleaned an immense wealth of knowledge during these informal discussions. Each of these women possesses a unique blend of talent, experience, and perspective, making it incredibly enriching to hear their insights on everything from content strategy and audience engagement to monetization and work-life balance. It was immensely validating and refreshing to be in a space where I didn’t feel like a “major tool shed” asking basic, mundane questions. Instead, the atmosphere was one of open sharing and mutual support, where no question was too simple and every piece of advice was offered generously. This collective brainstorming and sharing of best practices provided invaluable takeaways that I immediately felt I could implement into my own blogging journey. It was a huge relief and an incredibly empowering experience, proving that the true value of a retreat lies not just in planned sessions, but in these organic moments of connection and learning.
The afternoon flew by in a blur of insightful conversation and laughter, and before we knew it, it was time to get gussied up for a night on the town. Our dinner destination was the renowned The Riverhorse on Main, an iconic restaurant nestled in the vibrant heart of Park City. From the moment we stepped inside, the aesthetics of the restaurant were truly captivating. Soaring ceilings created an expansive and airy feel, while beautiful Aspen trees, artfully placed throughout the dining space, brought a touch of natural elegance indoors. The lighting, provided by stylish Edison bulbs, cast a warm, inviting glow, enhancing the sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance. Every detail, from the decor to the subtle background music, contributed to an atmosphere that promised an unforgettable evening of fine dining and delightful company. It was the perfect setting to continue our retreat’s journey of connection and celebration.
We were graciously seated in our own private dining room at The Riverhorse on Main, and it was here that the evening’s true culinary adventure began. The executive chef, clearly eager to showcase the breadth and depth of his exquisite cuisine, ensured we received a comprehensive taste of his artistry. We commenced with a delightful round of signature cocktails and an array of tantalizing appetizers. My absolute favorites were the perfectly prepared pork belly, crispy yet meltingly tender, and a refreshing, expertly crafted margarita that perfectly balanced sweet and tart notes. As the evening progressed, I honestly lost track after the first round, as the kitchen consistently sent out an incredible parade of dishes, each one more phenomenal than the last. Everything was quite literally “off the chart” in terms of flavor and presentation. The entire group enthusiastically agreed that the halibut was a standout, flaky and perfectly cooked, and the trio of meats – featuring various cuts prepared with distinct techniques – was equally phenomenal. As they say, you can never go wrong with a little meat, especially when it’s prepared with such masterful skill. Wink, wink!
Sunday marked our final day in beautiful Park City, and we knew we had to go out with a bang, especially when it came to breakfast. Our farewell feast was nothing short of spectacular, generously provided by Real Food Market, Gold Medal Flour, and Hamilton Beach. What better way to celebrate a fantastic weekend than with a mouthwatering spread of chicken and waffles? The aroma alone was enough to pull us out of bed! Golden, crispy waffles, perfectly cooked, were served alongside tender, flavorful fried chicken. It was a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, a true Southern-inspired delight made with top-quality ingredients. This indulgent breakfast provided the perfect start to our last day, leaving us feeling thoroughly satisfied and ready for our final activities before heading home. It truly exemplified the care and attention to detail that permeated every aspect of the Inspired Retreat.
After our smashing breakfast, some of us couldn’t resist one last opportunity to enjoy the incredible Deer Valley slopes. Megan, who had impressively learned to ski just the day before, joined Annalise and me for another exhilarating session on the fresh powder. It was truly inspiring to see Megan’s rapid progress and enthusiasm. These girls are not only incredibly talented in their respective fields but also wonderful, supportive friends, and I feel so genuinely blessed to call them mine. Sharing these final moments on the mountain, carving through the snow and soaking in the majestic views, created lasting memories. It was a perfect way to conclude our active retreat, surrounded by camaraderie and the stunning natural beauty of Park City, strengthening the bonds of friendship formed over the weekend.
(photo by: Annalise)
Following our final glorious runs on the slopes, we made our way back to the house, where another thoughtful provision awaited us. Whole Foods had generously prepared delicious, ready-to-go lunches for each of us, perfect for grabbing on our way to the airport. This final touch of convenience and care truly highlighted the meticulous planning and support that made the entire retreat so seamless and enjoyable. It meant we could depart feeling nourished and well-cared for, even as our incredible journey in Utah came to its bittersweet close.
And just like that, my unforgettable time in Utah concluded. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and want to extend a colossal thank you to all the sponsors whose incredible generosity made this entire trip possible and truly exceptional. A massive shout-out to Deer Valley for hosting us in such a spectacular fashion, Red Maple Run for their contributions, Grace and Lace for adding a touch of style, and Brin and Bell for their unique offerings. We also appreciate Real Salt, Nature Box for healthy snacks, Beauty Box 5 for delightful surprises, Rod Works for the beautiful home decorations, and Vintage Silverware. Culinary excellence was supported by Krusteaz, Star Fine Foods, Real Foods Market, Pacific Foods, and Heber Valley Cheese. For equipment and essentials, we thank Lole, Anolon, Hamilton Beach, and Wusthof Knives. Our energy was fueled by Charming Beard Coffee, and our skiing adventures made easy by Skis on the Run. Baking essentials came from Gold Medal Flour, and our departure lunches were lovingly prepared by Whole Foods Park City. Each sponsor played a vital role in creating an unforgettable experience, making the Inspired Retreat a true success.
Additionally, another colossal thank you is reserved for Carrian, whose vision, dedication, and meticulous planning brought this entire retreat together seamlessly. Her efforts created an environment where learning, connection, and inspiration flourished. I cannot wait for the opportunity to come back and relive such an incredible experience. This retreat was more than just a getaway; it was a profound opportunity for growth, connection, and rediscovery, all thanks to Carrian and our amazing sponsors.
Until next time, beautiful Utah. You’ve truly inspired me.