How to Plan a Corporate Retreat People Will Actually Be Excited About
by Ed Moore
A great corporate retreat can boost team morale, spark new ideas, and bring your company culture to life. But getting it right takes a bit of thought and planning. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pull off a retreat that people will talk about for all the right reasons.
Step 1: Know Your “Why”
Before booking anything, ask yourself: What’s the main goal here?
- Team bonding?
- Strategy sessions or brainstorming?
- Developing leadership?
- Celebrating a big win?
Knowing your “why” helps guide everything else: location, agenda, and even the budget.
Red Blaze Advantage: Our team can help define the purpose and make sure your retreat has a clear direction.
Step 2: Set Your Budget & Timeline
Start with the basic: what can you spend, and how long do you have to plan?
- Factor in travel, food, rooms, activities, and extras like swag.
- Aim to start planning 2–3 months in advance (more if it’s abroad or during peak season).
- Get any signoffs you need from leadership early on.
Red Blaze Advantage: Red Blaze will help you scope everything and build a clear and concise budget.
Step 3: Pick the Perfect Spot
The right location can make or break your retreat. Look for somewhere that:
- Fits the vibe (relaxing, energizing, inspiring: whatever you need) and budget!
- Is easy for your team to get to
- Has a mix of spaces for working and chilling
Popular options:
- Nature retreats (forest lodges, countryside cabins)
- Beach or mountain resorts
- City hotels with great meeting spaces
- Quirky venues that offer something unique
Red Blaze Advantage: 25+ years of venue-sourcing experience means we’ll match you with just the right place, UK or overseas.
Step 4: Sort Travel & Accommodations
Make sure everyone gets there and has a comfy place to stay.
- Look into group rates or exclusive venue bookings
- Help with travel bookings
- Arrange local transport (from the airport, train station, etc.)
Red Blaze Advantage: Our team will handle all the details including negotiating upgrades and extras, so you get more value for your budget.
Step 5: Build a Fun & Flexible Agenda
Mix business with fun. People want to feel productive and relaxed.
Ideas for your schedule:
- Welcome session to set the tone
- Strategy or skills workshops
- Team activities (escape rooms, cooking classes, hikes)
- Free time to unwind
- Wellness options like yoga or meditation
- Social events and informal hangouts
Red Blaze Advantage: Red Blaze will help design a balanced, engaging schedule that actually works for your team.
Step 6: Communicate Early
Keep your team in the loop from the start to help build excitment.
- Send a save-the-date as soon as you lock in the location
- Share packing tips, the schedule, and key info
- Gather any special requirements (dietary, accessibility, etc.)
- Create a group chat or Slack channel for pre-retreat buzz
Red Blaze Advantage: We can handle your retreat comms and help build excitement through digital or in-office methods.
Step 7: Prep the Details
Time to get your ducks in a row.
- Book any speakers or facilitators
- Finalize presentations, handouts, and team swag
- Check the tech: Wi-Fi, projectors, mics, etc.
- Decide who’s running each session
Red Blaze Advantage: Need AV support or staging? We’ve got you covered for any virtual, hybrid, or live requirements.
Step 8: Make It Count
Once the retreat starts, enjoy it! Be present and soak it all in.
- Take some photos (with permission!)
- Ask for feedback during and after
- Encourage connection and reflection
- Most importantly… have fun
Red Blaze Advantage: With us running the show, you can focus on what really matters: your team.
Want to Skip the Stress? Let Us Handle It.
Planning a retreat doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you want to deliver something truly memorable, without the hassle, we can take care of everything, start to finish.
Think Corporate Retreats. Think Red Blaze.
Let’s chat about your next project. You bring the team… and we’ll bring the magic.