The Maris Dae Hotel: Our Retreat Recipe
This summer, we didn't just host a photo shoot, we created a hotel. We wanted to capture the essence of our brand, so we curated an experience that brought to life all of our values: nourishing food, deep connection, healthy bodies, and mermaid spirits that seize the dae. Welcome to the Maris Dae hotel. The dreamy seaside escape we all want to go, and where we hope our brand can take you to every time you slather on our serum.
Our intention was to create something meaningful that filled everyone's cup. Not only did we create lasting friendships and a jaw-dropping experience, but we are creating the formula for our brand world: welcoming all of you into the elements of Maris Dae and what matters to us beyond what's in the bottle.
The retreat started with a very special place on Bowen Island, British Columbia. A home that is personal and connected to our founding story, and inspiration behind the brand.
We brought together adventure seekers, creatives, and "yes" girls, plus a few talented photographers. And for three days, we ran a full wellness retreat, including curated experiences, a menu you might find in a Mediterranean villa, some moments of reflection and connection, and of course lots of frolicking on the beach with our bodies glowing thanks to our restorative serum.
What we created was truly special. An inspiring mid-week retreat that felt like a weekend, friends for life, and a space where everyone could expand their bodies and their souls.
We're hoping to make the Maris Dae Hotel an annual brand experience. If you want to recreate it in your own backyard, here's our recipe for success.
The people
It's always all about the people. To recreate Hotel Maris Dae, recruit all of your friends with mermaid, "yes" vibes — the ones with a spirit of adventure who are equally willing to hike, gab over long sunset dinners and go for an impromptu run the next morning. Energy is contagious. Curate for it the way you'd curate anything else that matters.
The place
Second, the environment. Find water. Find nature. Find somewhere that lets people slow down without trying to.
For us, that's Bowen. Sea to Sky, in our own backyard. It's personal, not just a pretty backdrop.
The conversation
When we started every meal, we didn't start with pleasantries. We immediately went deep. We used spirit cards and a bit of intentional storytelling to get past small talk at dinner and into the kind of conversation that actually stays with you.
The creativity
We made space for movement, for self-care, for whatever each woman needed that day. A run club at sunrise. Quiet time. Room to create, or to do nothing at all.
Nourishment
We built a menu that became the centerpiece of the whole weekend: Mediterranean-inspired, full of flavor, made to leave everyone feeling nourished, fulfilled, and a tad bit spicy.
The takeaway
In only 3 days, we created something that's far more than the photos. It's the spirit of Maris Dae bottled up for all of you to experience.
Our zest for life, willingness to try new things, make new friends, and create beautiful and creative moments to capture came together perfectly.
Welcome to our Maris Dae Hotel. We hope you stay well beyond the sunset.
xo,
Sam
