Unforgettable Bonds: A Global Group Getaway in Alabama
As someone who had never glamped before, I approached this summer with a mix of excitement and nerves. My name is Rae'Mah Henderson, and I’m the Program Manager with Tech Stars. This summer, I was tasked with organizing a retreat for my incoming class of founders. Our group consisted of 24 innovative individuals representing 12 startups from 10 countries and 7 states across the USA. These founders were embarking on a three-month journey in Alabama, aiming to achieve two years of progress in just one quarter. To set the tone for such a transformative experience, I needed a venue that would foster meaningful connections while showcasing the charm of Alabama. The ReTreet Resort was the perfect choice for our group getaway, and it delivered beyond my wildest expectations.
A Glamping Newbie Finds the Perfect Retreat
Confession time: I’m not a camper, and I’ve never been a Girl Scout. However, as I’ve entered my “outdoorsy” era, I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to nature than The ReTreet. Nestled in the heart of Alabama, this luxurious glamping resort became the stage for an unforgettable gathering. Our group spent two days immersed in a harmonious blend of comfort, community, and creativity. From the very start, it was clear that this was more than just a retreat; it was the launchpad for connections and ideas that would ripple through industries and economies for decades to come.
Setting the Stage for Innovation
The Tech Stars program is an intense and high-stakes experience. Founders leave behind families, friends, and familiar routines to invest in their startups and their futures. My goal for this retreat was to create a welcoming, energizing environment where these brilliant minds could connect on a personal level before diving into the work ahead. ReTreet’s idyllic setting, with its serene landscapes and thoughtfully designed spaces, provided the perfect backdrop for building camaraderie and trust.
From the moment we arrived, The ReTreet’s attention to detail stood out. Each accommodation was more inviting than the last, and the communal spaces were thoughtfully crafted to encourage interaction. Whether it was the shared firepit, the gazebo where we hosted our barbecues, or the Nordic Cycle Station where founders bonded over cold plunges, every aspect of the resort seemed designed to bring people together.
The Magic of the Dome
The centerpiece of our stay was the iconic dome, where we gathered for dinners and group activities. It’s hard to describe the magic of this space. One evening, under the twinkling Alabama stars, we hosted an improv night that became the highlight of the trip. Picture this: a group of individuals who had just met a day prior, now laughing, performing skits, and acting out scenes with a level of comfort and joy that usually takes months to cultivate. It was during these moments of shared vulnerability and humor that the true spirit of our retreat emerged.
More Than Just Activities: Experiences That Unite
Our days at The ReTreet were filled with activities that balanced fun, relaxation, and connection. From making s’mores around the firepit to jumping into the cold plunge as a group, every moment was a testament to the power of shared experiences. Even the simple act of preparing and enjoying meals together—whether it was a barbecue under the gazebo or breakfast delivered to our doors—helped break down barriers and foster genuine relationships.
One of the most unexpected joys was seeing the diversity within our group—people from different continents, cultures, and industries—come together seamlessly. Watching founders who’d never met before collaborate and support each other was a powerful reminder of what can happen when people are given the right environment to connect.
The Impact Beyond the Retreat
As I write this, the Tech Stars program has just concluded, and I’m thrilled to share that the energy and bonds we built at The ReTreet carried through the entire three months. The connections forged during those two days didn’t just enhance the program; they elevated it. Our office was ranked in the Top 3 globally for the Tech Stars network, a recognition that stems directly from the camaraderie and trust we established at The ReTreet.
The founders themselves often referenced moments from The ReTreet—the improv night, the shared meals, the late-night conversations around the firepit—as highlights of their journey. These experiences didn’t just create friendships; they laid the foundation for collaboration and innovation that will shape their startups and careers for years to come.
Alabama as a Global Host
It’s not every day that a small southern office in Alabama gets to host a group of global innovators, but The ReTreet made it possible. As an ambassador for this incredible state, I couldn’t be prouder of what we accomplished. The retreat showcased not only the natural beauty of Alabama but also its capacity to inspire and connect people from all walks of life.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To the team at The ReTreet, thank you for providing an experience that was equal parts luxurious and heartfelt. Your attention to detail, from the accommodations to the activities, ensured that our group getaway was nothing short of extraordinary. The bonds we created and the memories we made will stay with us forever. I hope you enjoy the video we’ve put together, which captures the joy, laughter, and connection that defined our stay.
For anyone considering a group getaway in Alabama, whether it’s for work, family, or friends, I can’t recommend The ReTreet enough. It’s a place where moments turn into memories, and connections turn into lifelong friendships. Thank you for giving us the perfect start to our journey and for helping us make history in our own small way.