At Happy Whole U™, we cater to the experience of women coming out of high-demand religion. 

We welcome women from all religious backgrounds, but you will primarily find women formerly from the Christian faith here (Evangelical, LDS, Jehovah’s Witness, Catholic, Church of Christ, IBLP, etc). 

Women of all ages (25-70) participate in our groups and we have found that the diversity of life experience has been such a gift to everyone involved.

We will also have women in all stages of their faith journey present, including those who are still participating in a church but are questioning some beliefs and practices, all the way to those who have left religion completely years ago, and everywhere in between. 

We very deliberately create a welcoming environment where you will feel safe to share. Happy Whole U is absolutely NOT about trying to get you to believe a specific dogma, in fact you will find none of that here. We are here to empower YOU!

Inclusivity is our highest value!

*You must be at least 21 years old since we will be serving alcohol (and we’re both 46, in case you were wondering).

That is completely normal to feel nervous! That's why we will be planning a pre-retreat meet up online so that you can get to know some of the other ladies before you even get there!

Rest assured that our sole focus at the retreat is to build a supportive, inclusive environment where you can be vulnerable at comfort level, share your story, and form lasting bonds.

Whether you're preparing meals together, engaging in the course material and empowering rituals, or just relaxing in the backyard, every activity fosters an opportunity to build deep, authentic connections.

By the end of the retreat, you’ll not only leave with a renewed sense of self but with a close-knit community of women who understand and support you.

Arizona in June will be hot, so we recommend packing light, breathable clothing to keep you comfortable during the day. Here’s what you’ll want to bring:

Here is a tentative packing list:

• Casual clothes for 4 days
• Swim attire
• Walking shoes 
• Sandals
• Light jacket or sweatshirt
• Hat and sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Journal and pen
• Headphones
• Any personal items you'll need to relax and recharge, like a book or favorite music for your downtime.
• Favorite game or activity to share with the group (optional)

Average temperature in Scottsdale, AZ in June is low 100s F during the day and low 70s F during the night. The AC will be blasting inside so don't worry, we promise you won't melt!

You can get the local weather report here.

We completely understand if the idea of sharing a room with strangers feels a bit nerve-wracking at first. It's totally normal to feel that way! But rest assured, by the end of the retreat, you’ll leave with not just new memories, but 10 new friends (and us, too, so make that 12).

We intentionally chose this house for its cozy, camp-like atmosphere, which encourages connection and community. The space is designed to foster both personal reflection and meaningful relationships, making it the perfect setting for new friendships to blossom.

However, with all of this being said... if having private space is important to you, then you are welcome to get a hotel room nearby and still come participate in the retreat with us. You're welcome to come for all meals, workshop time, etc but head back to your hotel for free time and at night to get a little space. 

Please email us to let us know that this is your plan so that we don't save a bed for you. The price will remain the same, however.

Once you purchase the retreat we will be sending you an email with all the details and a form to fill out to gather your preferences. If you have any food restrictions or are not able to sleep on a top bunk we will make sure to accommodate you! We will be placing people in rooms according to your needs. 

FRIDAY:

• 3:00 Arrive anytime after 3pm
• 5:30 Dinner
• 7:00 Special activity

SATURDAY + SUNDAY:

• 6:00 Morning activity (optional)
• 8:00 Breakfast
• 9:00 Workshop Session
• 12:30 Lunch
• 1:00 FREE Time
• 4:00 Happy Hour Cocktails & appetizer
• 6:00 Dinner
• 7:00 Special Ceremony 
• 9:00 Smores & Firepit 

MONDAY: 

• 6:00 Morning activity (optional)
• 8:00 Send off breakfast
• 9:30 Pack up and leave 😔

We see food as all about nourishment, connection, and enjoyment.

Each day, we’ll rotate shared homemade breakfasts and lunches prepared by everyone in the house, creating a warm, communal vibe. Think: eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, toast, homemade waffles, etc. for breakfast; and a sandwich station for lunches. Coffee and tea will always be available every morning to start your day off right, as well as lots of water to keep you hydrated throughout the day!

Snacks will be stocked in the house with a special treat made fresh every day (like homemade guacamole served with chips and salsa).

Every afternoon, we will gather for cocktail hour with wine, margaritas, and sparkling water & sodas (for those who don't drink). This isn't a time to get wasted, but a tasteful chance for many of us to participate in a safe way with something that was forbidden in high control religion. And to wrap up the day, dinners will be catered in, offering a variety of delicious, thoughtfully prepared options (like Mediterranean, etc). 

*We will do our best to accommodate any dietary restrictions, so please let us know in advance. Expect plenty of wholesome meals, relaxed social moments, and a lot of delicious flavors!

The following are off-limits on the retreat premises:

• Smoking
• Illegal drugs
• Alcohol abuse
• Racist remarks
• Discrimination
• Body shaming

Instead, we ask that you bring openness, honesty, and a spirit of positivity. This is a space where vulnerability is welcomed, and we encourage you to embrace the full range of emotions—from tears to belly laughs, hand-holding to heartfelt conversations. Enthusiasm and kindness are key to creating the safe, supportive environment we’re all here to build.

Everything except your flights and travel! The price covers all accommodations at the Retreat House, including bed linens for your 3-night stay, as well as all meals, snacks, beverages, alcohol, and onsite activities.

Not only does the price cover the retreat, but it also grants you full access to the Happy Whole U™ curriculum! Here’s what you'll receive:

• 10 in-depth course videos to watch at your own pace
• 1 beautifully designed, 150+ page workbook
• 6 monthly online gathering circles (May-Dec) to keep you supported
• 6 months of access to our community platform (June-Dec 2025)
• A pre-retreat online orientation gathering to get you prepared

Just get yourself to Arizona, and we’ll take care of the rest. (Doesn’t that sound amazing?)

Yes, this is a non-refundable event. We have to cover a lot of up-front expenses with lodging, food and activities so we will not be able to offer refunds like we can with our standalone Happy Whole U™ program.

Thank you for understanding that there is a TON of work + investment that goes into preparing for each individual.

Once you have purchased your spot, you will receive:

1. A receipt of purchase and a welcome email from Cara + Rachael within 24 hours to the email address you entered. This means you've secured your spot, and can indicate your dietary preferences and rooming accommodations. 
2. We'll reach out again closer to the date of the retreat for our online orientation call for connection + carpooling.
3. In May 2025, you’ll get the final packing list, directions and official retreat schedule.
4. And then? We’ll see you on Friday, June 20, 2025 at the Retreat House in Scottsdale, AZ in all excited/nervous/ready for the magic.