If you’ve ever struggled with pricing your retreat, you’re not alone. Many retreat leaders feel stuck between two difficult choices: raising prices (and potentially pricing out some of their audience) or keeping prices low and barely covering costs. But what if I told you there’s a third option?

You can make more money from your retreats without raising your base price. The key is to get smart with your monetization strategies.

By offering strategic upsells, VIP experiences, and post-retreat income streams, you can increase your retreat revenue while still keeping your pricing accessible. Let’s dive into how you can start implementing these today!

1. Upsells – Enhancing the Experience While Increasing Revenue

Upsells are a fantastic way to boost your retreat income while giving attendees the chance to personalize their experience. The key is to offer value-packed add-ons that enhance their transformation without feeling like a hard sell. So you might be asking: What kind of upsells work for retreats?

Well, here are three upsell ideas I love:

• Private 1:1 Sessions – Offer personal coaching, energy healing, intuitive readings, or strategy sessions. These can be before, during, or after the retreat.
•  Special Excursions or Workshops – Organize activities like horseback riding, cultural experiences, sound healing, or special topic deep dives.
• Exclusive Add-Ons – Think outside the box like a professional photoshoot, a beautifully curated gift box, or an upgraded wellness treatment.

Make sure you mention upsells early in the booking process so attendees can plan for them. Frame them as exclusive enhancements rather than necessary expenses. And use a limited availability approach (e.g., “Only 5 spots available for private coaching sessions!”) to increase demand.

2. VIP Packages – Catering to Guests Who Want More

Not all attendees are looking for a budget-friendly experience. Some want the red carpet treatment and are happy to pay extra for it.

Your VIP package should feel like a no-brainer upgrade. Here are some enticing ideas:

• Premium Accommodations – Offer an upgraded room, a suite, or a private villa.
• Exclusive Small-Group or 1:1 Sessions – VIP guests get more intimate time with you.
• Early Arrival or Late Departure Perks – VIPs get an extra night to settle in or integrate before heading home.
• Luxury Gift Bags – Fill them with high-end gifts, books, or products tied to your retreat theme.
• Pre-Retreat & Post-Retreat Calls – Provide extra support before they arrive and after they leave.

Make sure you price them at a level that feels premium but accessible (e.g., $500-$2,000 upgrade). Offer a limited number of VIP spots (exclusivity makes it more desirable). And highlight why it’s worth it (e.g., “For an extra $997, you get an extra night in paradise, private coaching, and luxury gifts!”).

3. Post-Retreat Income Streams – Keeping the Transformation Going

One of the biggest mistakes retreat leaders make is thinking the income stops once the retreat ends. The truth? Your retreat is just the beginning of a deeper journey for your participants.

Here are a few post-retreat monetization ideas that I love:

• Follow-Up Coaching or Membership – Offer an ongoing group coaching program, a mastermind, or a paid membership community to keep the transformation going.
• ell Digital Products or Courses – Do you have an online course, ebook, or training that complements the retreat? Offer it as a way for participants to deepen their learning.
• Host Continuation Retreats or Reunion Events – Many attendees will want to return for another experience. Offer a “level 2” retreat or an annual reunion gathering.

Don’t wait until everyone is leaving – plant the seed early! Mention the possibility of continued support before and during the retreat. Offer a special retreat-only rate. (e.g., “Because you attended this retreat, you get access to my ongoing coaching at a special rate!”)

Make sure you follow up with a well-timed email sequence after the retreat, reminding them of their next steps! Don’t abandon your peeps after all that transformation!

Bottom line: Raising your retreat prices isn’t the only way to increase your revenue. Instead, think about how you can add more value while giving your attendees opportunities to go deeper with you.

By incorporating upsells, VIP experiences, and post-retreat offers, you can significantly boost your income without making your retreat inaccessible.

Keep in mind that the key to a thriving retreat business isn’t just about filling seats—it’s about creating an experience so powerful that people want to invest in the next step with you.

Your Next Steps…

1- Choose one monetization strategy from this list and start testing it for your next or upcoming retreat! Let me know if you’re willing to give this a try!

2- Need help optimizing your retreat monetization plan (or help with anything in your business for that matter)? If so, I HIGHLY recommend joining me on our upcoming mastermind retreat sailing the coast of Croatia August 22-29th on our private luxury yacht.

If you’ve been feeling stuck in your business or you’re ready to take it to the next level, this trip is EXACTLY what you need.

You’ll have a full week of high-level brainstorming, personalized feedback, and meaningful conversations with heart-centered entrepreneurs who truly get it.

It’s totally all inclusive and you’ll leave Croatia not just refreshed, but ready to take actionable steps to grow your life and business to the next level.

To your wanderlust life and biz, Sheri & the whole Wanderlust Team! xox