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retreats by seema rose

Are you a creator, a foodie, an entrepreneur, a dreamer who is looking at taking a break in an inspiring destination to unwind and refresh, and to connect with amazing

new people? You've come to the right place!

 

My retreats are invigorating getaways for photographers who want to revive their passion for creativity, take a breather before the next big project, step into a loving community and to feel the joy of living in a bucket-list location in the company of like-minded souls. They are meticulously crafted, with handpicked experiences, the best culinary delights and hosted at absolutely stunning, boutique venues.

 

These retreats were born from a deep purpose - to support and inspire creatives in the photography industry. After seeking a deeper meaning in my food photography journey, I felt a true calling to offer others a safe, welcoming space - a place for genuine collaborations and friendships to navigate the challenges of a

creative career together.

 

Unlike most retreats for creatives, which are focused on teaching specific skills of their craft, the purpose of my retreats is not the same - it is not so much about learning hard skills, but more about becoming a part of an encouraging, nurturing community, reconnecting with yourself and finding your creative voice again. 

I have hosted 5 retreats so far - 2 in Florence along with a friend of mine, a 3rd one, my first solo retreat, in beautiful Cotswolds, UK in May last year, next one in enchanting Bali in May 2025 and my latest one in gorgeous Puglia in fall last year. I was accompanied by amazing groups of creative minds and brilliant photographers, who I am fortunate to call my friends now. We had an absolutely fabulous time, with heart-to-heart conversations, great food and wine, loads of laughter, and a totally relaxed and revitalising stay. 

Check out the stunning images!

 

And now, I am super excited to invite you to my upcoming retreat in timeless, elegant Santorini, Greece! It's a destination that invites creative flow through beauty and presence. From sunlit streets to endless blue horizons, every detail feels considered, textured and alive. It’s the kind of place where ideas awaken, clarity returns and creativity feels effortless rather than forced. Read more about the retreat here. I would urge you to sign up soon to join an amazing group in Greece - spots are limited! See you soon❤️. 

 

santorini, greece

may 31 - june 05, 2026

a 5-night, 6-day creative escape shaped by
the Mediterranean light

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From May 31st to June 5th, we will spend five nights/six days immersed in the timeless beauty of Santorini. This retreat is designed for those who appreciate culture, creativity, connection and the kind of luxury that feels quietly elegant.

In Santorini, understated elegance meets the unmistakable charm of the Mediterranean. Perched high above the Aegean Sea, the island is defined by its soft white architecture, curved lines, stone pathways and endless shades of blue. There is a natural sophistication here - unforced, sun-warmed and inspiring.

 

Santorini’s food reflects this rhythm - fresh seafood, sun-ripened produce, local wines and meals enjoyed with sea views and unhurried company. The warmth of the people, their stories and their connection to the land add a richness that goes far beyond the scenery.

 

​Santorini is also a dream for creatives. The island’s light, textures and dramatic landscapes offer endless inspiration for photographers and visual storytellers, while its calm, elegant energy encourages presence and creative flow. Beyond the lens, it offers a sense of ease - a reminder to move a little slower, breathe a little deeper and savour each moment as it comes.

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This retreat isn’t about doing more, it’s about being more present. Expect beautifully unhurried days, thoughtful experiences, shared meals, meaningful conversations and quiet moments that feel just as memorable as the big ones. Every element has been curated to feel intimate, elevated and nourishing.

 

If you’ve been longing for time away that feels refined yet relaxed, this is your invitation. Spaces are intentionally limited to preserve the intimacy of the experience. I invite you to secure your place now and join us in Santorini before the final spots are filled.

DETAILS OF THE RETREAT

Where: Santorini, Greece 

Dates: May 31st - June 5th, 2026 (5 nights/6 days)

 

The itinerary is being finalised currently and will be shared very soon but here's a glimpse of the magic that this retreat promises to offer us:

What the Week Will Feel Like

This 5-night retreat will unfold gently in the extraordinary setting of Santorini. Set high above the Aegean Sea, Santorini invites a slower rhythm from the moment you arrive. Days stretch out beneath wide skies and endless blue, where dramatic cliffs, whitewashed architecture and sunlit pathways create an atmosphere that feels both cinematic and serene. This is a place where beauty is ever-present, yet never overwhelming - relaxed, refined and effortlessly inspiring.

Our days will be filled with experiences designed to delight the senses and nourish creativity. We will cook and eat together, including a Greek cooking class, and enjoy unforgettable meals featuring fresh, local ingredients at carefully chosen local restaurants. There will be moments of making with our hands, including pottery, as well as evenings spent exploring Santorini’s vibrant nightlife and soaking in the island’s energy after dark.

Between it all, there is space for late-night swims, long conversations that drift well past midnight, laughter, reflection and connection. We will photograph together, capturing Santorini’s dramatic landscapes, textures and ever-changing light, while also leaving room for presence beyond the lens.

Our accommodation has been selected with exceptional care and is an integral part of the retreat experience. We will be staying in a gorgeous Santorini villa, offering a sense of refinement, comfort and quiet indulgence from the moment you arrive. Think sun-drenched terraces, elegant interiors, inviting communal spaces and breathtaking sea views - a place designed for gathering, creativity and unhurried living.

One of the most special moments of the retreat will be a beautiful, intimate session with a very special guest - none other than the brilliant Costas Millas @madebymrmillas. He will talk to us about styling food through emotion, color and cultural memory as an invitation to slow down, tune in and experience food beyond aesthetics. Prepare for a refreshed mindset around food styling - one that gently, yet powerfully, puts fire back into your heart.

This retreat is not about following a strict schedule - it’s about flow and experiencing Greece through taste, touch, conversation and shared moments, and allowing creativity to emerge naturally from that richness.

 

Above all, this week is about togetherness, gathering in an extraordinary place and creating memories that feel as vivid and lasting as the landscape itself.​​​

 

INVESTMENT:

Book by Feb 20th and save EUR 200 - you pay EUR 3,750 for a shared room with one person! Cost goes up to EUR 3,950 after that. Just one single room is available upon request - please DM me for details. 

The cost includes:

  • Airport transfers 

  • Accommodation for the duration of the retreat (5 nights/6 days)

  • All meals including beverages

  • Sightseeing & transportation for sightseeing

  • Cooking class 

  • Wine tasting

  • Pottery class

It does not include:

  • Cost of flights, associated taxes, baggage fees, visas & travel insurance

  • Expenses related to shopping

  • Meals/items/activities bought individually by you

Spots are limited, so sign up soon! You can pay in 2 instalments - please DM me.

​​

memories from
creative retreats

TESTIMONIALS

Johanna Karlsson (@throughherkitchenwindow)

Attending this retreat was so special in so many ways. The people, the atmosphere, the long talks, the food, the friendship, Florence, Valdirose and of course the hosts. I was going there with no expectations other then getting to know people and maybe take some photos. I went home with so many beautiful memories, friendships for life and new inspiration and courage. Seema and Alessandra are also the best hosts. Everything was so well planned both for activities and food. You just had to tag along and enjoy the company of the others. They are both very warm and loving persons and they just made you feel comfortable at once.I can highly recommend going to one of their retreats. I will definitely go again in future. Don’t hesitate, don’t be afraid of not knowing anyone there. Just go and it will be amazing.

Haniyeh Nikoo (@haniyeh.nikoo)

I had the pleasure to be among the creatives who joined the first retreat planned by dear Seema and Alexandra. They went above and beyond to make the retreat extra special and magical. From the choice of location, to the food and activities were all well thought and amazing. They even surprised me with a beautiful cake and made my birthday that happened to be during the retreat, a memorable one. I am forever grateful for such a beautiful, bonding and special gathering they planned!

The creative retreat at Valdirose, hosted by Seema and Alessandra not only met, but exceeded my expectations at every turn. Their attention to detail was flawless. Nothing was left to chance. As a creative with an event planning background, I appreciate the care they took to make sure all my needs were met, from accommodating my vegan diet, to helping me find ice for my nagging achilles. I was able to let my cares flow down the River Arno and simply bask in the warm company, excellent food, and super fun outings. I highly reccomend this retreat and give them 2 huge thumbs up!

Carol Clayton (@carolsvegankitchen)

Lucia Marecak (@foodlight.io)

I joined Seema's retreat in October 2022. It was my first retreat as participant. I decided to join as I was looking for something to help me re-energize, find my (somehow) lost passion for photography, and inspire me to move forward in my business. The retreat was fantastic, and it helped me so much. Not only did I get my energy and inspiration back, but I also got to meet like-minded creatives, and we became friends. After the retreat, I also started photographing more often and I've established a few collaborations with participants from the workshop. Seema is a wonderful host, and I hope to join her retreat again in the future.

Belinda Hausner (@belindathebaker)

Loved the experience! It’s just the way you are. How you act, how you understand everybody and how you let everybody be as he/she is. I made new friends and I came back with a lot of positive energy and thoughts. A face-to-face meeting with fellow creatives is amazing! Haven’t had that good feeling in meetings before. I could be as I am.

I can't believe we met only two years ago. You are one of the most encouraging people for everyone else, cheering others on and always wante=ing to help guide them. I don't know what I will do with my photography passion yet, but I want you to know that you have helped me, both directly and indirectly. Even from afar I feel you energising me and making me feel like I can do anything. And you know what? You have proved to all of us that we can do anything because you can do everything. You have an idea and you just make it happen. You're awesome! I am so happy to know you and I hope we know each other for many years to come. Love you!

Andi (@andislaby_photo)

Suze (@gourmetglow)

Emotions are peculiar things, uncontrollable and unforeseen, they envelop you when you least expect it. From the minute I set foot on Valdirose soil, I was swathed in the most genuine hug by both Seema & Ale. They are such beautiful souls that emit such warmth and love, it’s so hard to cry tears of joy. From start to finish, not only was the retreat so meticulously planned it ran like clockwork, the attention to detail was phenomenal. Individual gift bags, handtied and named, set a precedent for how we all would be treated throughout, not so much like royalty, that’s too aloof, but like close knit family. The food, the fun and the laughter will be my takeaway memories, compounded by the love and bond between us all. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for the newfound soul mates I have in my life, all from different backgrounds but all bound by the emotions we felt at this retreat. Everything was of the highest quality from the food to the accommodation to the attention to detail. If you are looking to boost your self-esteem whilst being submerged in a cacophony of inspiration, friendship, and joy than these retreats will sate your soul. I am already saving for the next one! I can’t thank you enough my dear friends.

I had the absolute pleasure of joining the food photography retreat in May, and it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcome and was treated like a queen. The host was so natural in creating a sense of connection with all of us which made the retreat feel like a meeting with long-lost friends. The retreat took place in a stunning old Tuscan villa which was perfect for relaxation and inspiration. What truly made this retreat special was the amount of attention the hosts put into making us feel special. We didn't have to worry about a thing during the retreat, and those tiny surprises we didn't expect were just the cherry on top of the cake. I left the retreat with lifelong friends and memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. If you are passionate about spending a relaxing creative time in a place that screams history and indulgence, then I wholeheartedly recommend this retreat. Trust me, the friendly atmosphere in an incredible place like Tuscany will not disappoint you.

Anja Burgar (@useyournoodles)

It’s not everyday that we have a chance to be a part of an experience that touches our heart in the most inexplicable way bringing us joy, making us feel like a united tribe, inspiring us to be limitless and connecting us back to our passion like never before. The Florence retreat at Valdirose was that magical experience for me. The venue was so tastefully selected that from the moment I stepped in, I was lost in its charm. The food was so beautifully curated that it gave me a taste of true Italy. The activities were so thoughtfully organised that they sparked laughter but also deep conversations. Those 4 days at the retreat were epic, dreamy, memorable, life changing, blissful, fun, soul fulfilling & downright mind blowing. I went in with some expectations but Seema & Ale blew me away with their attention to detail and thoughtfulness. Everything was so well orchestrated that it created a synergy like never before. Even though I’d not met many of the others, the retreat felt like an old friends reunion. This retreat has a special place in my heart and shall remain there for years to come.

Dyutima Jha (@dyutima_myfoodlens)

Micheile Henderson (@micheile_oliviestrauss)

The retreat was a beautiful experience. Seema and Alessandra were so welcoming, as were the other attendees. Everything detail was so well organised. How refreshing it was to be among like-minded creatives. I’m not usually one for in-person events, but attending the retreat was one of the best decisions I’ve made. There were amazing excursions, the location was breathtaking and yet the memories I cherish the most are the moments at the table listening and sharing experiences with the group. I felt, and still feel a special connection to the group. I’ve got my calendar already marked for the next retreat.

The way you touch people's hearts & make peoplefeel included is something I will keep learning from for forever. You have the gift to lead with a pure heart & make people feel seen. Please never stop doing what you do & keep upir dreams high in the clouds.I aspire to be such a powerful woman as you are & you are a role model.

Lea (@brandedwithlea)

I don't know where to start. Maybe from the day we met in Parma? Iy's not easy for me to feel at ease with someone. But I immediately felt at ease with you. Which made me understand you are so special. I also don't always feel at ease with a group but I felt so connected with these beautiful souls this week. You are so unique. Take advantage of this gift. Keep doing what you are doing. Please:). I love you!

Roberta (@roberta.dallalba)

what is a retreat?

A retreat is a travel, learning, and rejuvenating experience, hosted in a peaceful and inspiring location. It's the coming together of a small group of creatives to escape from their normal routines, exchange ideas with like-minded people, create soul-satisfying memories together and refresh and recharge themselves in the process. It is not a workshop, in that, there won’t be any formal teaching or learning. We can learn about each other and our journeys via candid conversations.

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why do you need a retreat?

We have experienced big changes in our lives post Covid. We have been readjusting our personal and professional dynamics like we have never done before. We have learnt to see value in the simple things; things that make our hearts sing. Self-care is one of them. We all need to be kind to ourselves and nurture our spirit - in whichever field it may be. Now, people are looking for more meaningful connections. A retreat provides a perfect setting to achieve this. A beautiful and inspiring location, great food and drinks, an opportunity to taste the real flavour of a new city, to meet some amazing new people, to re-energise your spirit and find your creative flow.

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would you join me on this creative journey?

I would love for you to join me. My upcoming retreat in Santorini, Greece is going to be epic, with an inspiring bunch of people. Please fill out the form below if you would like to join me. I assure you, it will be a transformative experience so don't miss out on this opportunity for a unique getaway with fellow photographers. I look forward to creating beautiful memories with you!

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yes, i would like to come to santorini!

Please take a moment to fill out the form.

Thanks for signing up. I will be in touch.

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© Seema Rose

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