We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsea Dygert and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chelsea, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I went on a simi-spontaneous cross country car camping road trip with my best friend and felt so inspired by the places we visited. At one point during our trip we were sitting on a mountain under the full moon in Sedona and I just knew I wanted more people to see how incredible these spaces are. Little did I know that I would be taking a group of amazing women to that very spot less than a year later!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The idea behind an adventure retreat centers around exploring unique places in a way that not only allows for attendees to take in the obvious wow factors of nature’s beauty but also reveling in hidden gems. I pride myself in extensively scouting these locations ahead of time in an effort to not only familiarize myself with the area but to create the most amazing, customized itinerary by getting to know the locals, asking them where they love to eat, their favorite coffee shops, and any other “can’t miss” spots that the average tourist might not know about.

Although the adventures mainly consist of hiking, sightseeing, art, yoga, and rich culinary experiences.. friendships have been the most surprising souvenir for many of the attendees. I cap my retreats at 10 women which keeps the group intimate enough to allow for relationships to grow. Several of my groups still get together for reunions and love celebrating each other’s life milestones. That to me has been the most rewarding part!

Having a background in photography has been the icing on the cake and has permitted me to capture all the magic so the guests feel free to put down their phones and remain in the moment of it all.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When we’re in the Denver area we have to eat at City O’ City, take a day trip through the canyon to Black Hawk and take in all the historic sights, and catch a show at Red Rocks!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to give a huge shoutout to my best friend, Brianna for being willing to adventure with me on the road trip that sparked the inspiration for Conscious Retreats! As well as the author Peta Kelly and her book “Earth is Hiring”, and to my amazing husband for his unwavering support, help and encouragement.

Instagram: @chelsdygert

Image Credits
1st image of me: Kinsey Wilder
Rest of images: me

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.