Are you an officiant/celebrant seeking rejuvenation and relaxation? Are you eager to forge connections with fellow officiants, fostering idea exchange and lasting bonds? Welcome to the serene paradise of Belize. Join us for a transformational retreat, where you'll enjoy delicious local cuisine, swim in Caribbean waters, participate in workshops to explore ancient Aztec and Mayan rituals, engage deeply with peers, and embark on countryside adventures.
This retreat was made for YOU!
Are you an officiant/celebrant seeking rejuvenation and relaxation? Are you eager to forge connections with fellow officiants, fostering idea exchange and lasting bonds? Welcome to the serene paradise of Belize. Join us for a transformational retreat, where you'll relish exquisite cuisine, swim in crystalline waters, participate in workshops to explore ancient Aztec and Mayan rituals, engage deeply with peers, and embark on countryside adventures.
This retreat was made for YOU!
Wedding Day
"Testimonials from your clients go here. Tell us how much your other clients love you and that they would recommend you over and over again."
(Leave their name here, San Diego, CA)
Next >
Wedding Day
"Testimonials from your clients go here. Tell us how much your other clients love you and that they would recommend you over and over again."
(Leave their name here, San Diego, CA)
Next >
Wedding Day
"Testimonials from your clients go here. Tell us how much your other clients love you and that they would recommend you over and over again."
(Leave their name here, San Diego, CA)
Next >
Rituals & Relaxation: Officiant~Celebrant Retreat in Belize
February 22-28, 2025
Escape to a week free from all obligations. Can you picture yourself relaxing on a lounge chair beneath palm and coconut trees, listening to the ocean waves? Lose yourself in the pages of a book while swaying gently in a hammock by the shore. Embrace the tranquility and solitude.
This is your time for complete rejuvenation and renewal.
We'll immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of local culture as we discover ancient rituals and traditions firsthand, deeply ingrained in their ceremonies. We'll gain invaluable insights on adapting these rich customs to infuse our own ceremonies with authenticity and meaning.
One of our excursions will be a 40-minute boat journey through the mangroves and Caribbean Sea to enter the mouth of Monkey River at Monkey River Village. On the cruise, you'll enjoy Belize's diverse wildlife - from vibrant birds, iguanas, snakes, crocodiles, and howler monkeys.
One evening will be spent on a pontoon boat for a sunset cruise.
And - we will have the opportunity for a fabulous spa day with massages on the beach.
Savor the delicious flavors of the region - and a week off of not having to cook or do dishes! Your all-inclusive getaway promises a feast for the senses, featuring the freshest local cuisine expertly prepared by skilled chefs. We'll start our day with breakfast on the deck, overlooking the ocean. For lunch, perhaps a poolside spread. And for dinner, we'll dine on the beach or beneath the grass pavilion of the on-site restaurant.
imagine...
enjoy
indulge
escape
registration
Belize is the perfect location
to Unwind and Recharge
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a rejuvenating retreat experience designed just for you!
As solo entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and multitaskers, we understand the challenges you face juggling multiple responsibilities, from running your business to managing family obligations and everything in between. It's time to hit the reset button and prioritize your well-being.
In Belize, relaxation is not just an option, but a way of life. From the moment you step onto the warm white sands and gaze out at the turquoise waters, you'll feel the weight lift off your shoulders.
We'll have the option to participate in daily yoga sessions to soothe our body and mind, morning meditation on the beach to find inner peace, and engaging workshops to recharge our entrepreneurial spirits. Connect with like-minded individuals who understand the journey and share invaluable insights and support.
Treat yourself to the self-care you deserve and return home feeling refreshed and inspired.
You deserve to prioritize yourself - your business and loved ones will thank you for it.
Mariposa Resort is a small family owned and run resort in Placencia, Belize. Often you'll find that you'll have the beach to yourself! It is the perfect location to breathe in the sea air, and bask in the sunshine.
If you feel like a dip in the pool, you can find that right on the deck. What a spot to relax with a cold drink and look out over the ocean!
During our stay we will have free use of the kayaks, paddle boards, bicycles, and snorkeling gear.
this is for me!!
And - our rooms will be in a TREEHOUSE! Yes - these treehouses are nestled in the trees and just steps to the beach. Each treehouse has a private bathroom with rain shower, TV, WiFi, mini-fridge, air conditioning, and Keurig with coffee and tea pods.
Treehouses have two queen beds or one king/queen with a bunk bed.
As if the enchantment of the treehouses wasn't enticing enough, each one boasts a spacious deck where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
Imagine starting your day with a peaceful journaling session with your morning cup of coffee. At the end of the day, what could be better than drifting off to sleep in a hammock, gently swaying in the breeze?
But that's just the beginning of the magic that awaits you. Belize is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with hundreds of species calling it home. From the comfort of your deck, you'll be treated to the sights and sounds of birds you've never heard of!
For an even deeper dive into birding in Belize, we recommend downloading the Merlin app. This app helps to identify bird species. In Belize, you'll find unique birds such as Toucans, Red Capped Manakins and Plain Chachalacas.
Wedding Day
"Testimonials from your clients go here. Tell us how much your other clients love you and that they would recommend you over and over again."
(Leave their name here, San Diego, CA)
Next >
Wedding Day
"Testimonials from your clients go here. Tell us how much your other clients love you and that they would recommend you over and over again."
(Leave their name here, San Diego, CA)
Next >
Where You'll Stay
A Seafood Lovers Paradise
Mariposa has one of the best restaurants in all of Placencia. Every meal will have amazing choices of local fresh cuisine. If you are a seafood lover, you are in the right place! However, there is a broad international menu, and many Belizean dishes, as well.
And - the town of Placencia is a quick bike ride down the road, so if you are feeling like a change, you may use one of the bicycles, and head into town to experience many of the restaurants there.
As part of your group package, your breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
Local drinks including alcohol are included, as well.
Every morning presents an opportunity to gather on the shores for an experience of your choice. Join us for morning yoga, meditation, and/or journaling sessions, where you can immerse yourself in self-reflection and set your intentions for the day ahead. This time is dedicated to you, offering a tranquil space to center your mind and rejuvenate your spirit.
Following a hearty and nourishing breakfast, we'll offer a workshop and discussions aimed at gaining deeper insights into each other's experiences and our roles as celebrants/officiants. Through the exchange of stories about our triumphs and obstacles, we'll foster a greater understanding of our individual needs and aspirations within our respective fields.
The afternoon is open for you to bike into town, relax on a beach chair, or take a dip in the pool or ocean.
We will meet together for dinner on the deck, then the evening is yours to relax and reflect on your first full day in paradise.
day 2 Mornings are for memories
Our first day will be spent settling in, acquainting yourself with your surroundings, and eventually having dinner in a beautiful outdoor restaurant on the premises.
Over dinner we will get to know the other retreat participants and start relaxing into what will be a transformative week.
The following amenities are available for you to use free of charge:
- kayaks
- paddle-boards
- snorkeling equipment
- board games
- yoga mats
- beach chairs and towels
day 1 Welcome to Belize!
day 4 Living large
day 6 Synthesis and celebration
day 7 gratitude
day 5 Rituals and Relaxation
day 3 your adventure awaits
Each day of our stay has been thoughtfully created so you have time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, learn interesting and unique things to benefit your business, and foster your new friendships so you have life-long connections.
Your Itinerary
I'm In!
Our morning begins with solitude on the beach, as we participate in morning yoga, meditation, and/or journaling.
After breakfast on the deck we will be picked up at the resort for a full day adventure including a 40-minute boat ride on the Monkey River. We'll see native wildlife, including Howler Monkeys!
Lunch will be in Monkey River Village where we'll experience local shops and culture.
On the boat ride back to the resort, we'll stop to see manatees. It will be an incredible experience.
Those who are interested may also take a swim in the river!!
Our evening will include dinner, then time on your own.
- Facials
- Manicure/Pedicure
- Body Scrub
- Hot Stone Therapy
Today will be a very special day. Our morning will begin with morning yoga, journalling, and/or meditation. After breakfast, we will have the honor of meeting with a local Mayan/Aztec expert on ceremonial rituals. We will learn about their ancient rituals and customs focusing on weddings and funerals. This will be interactive and include discussion and Q&A.
The afternoon is yours to sign up for a local adventure recommended by the venue. Choose from cave tubing, snorkeling, swimming with turtles, sharks and rays, zip-lining, hiking through the jungle then cave exploration, as well as fishing.
Of course, you could also spend the day relaxing on the beach or floating in the pool.
After dinner we will meet up as a group on the deck to integrate what we learned from our morning workshop.
Today, we consolidate our myriad experiences, equipping ourselves with the tools necessary for our journey ahead upon our return home.
Our time away was curated to enrich both our personal and professional lives. Additionally, we wish to acknowledge the significant connections forged during this retreat.
The majority of the day will afford you the freedom to engage in activities that resonate most deeply with you.
As evening descends, we will convene to commemorate the week, and the invaluable lessons it imparted. Following dinner on the deck, we will gather on the beach for a communal sharing circle and a closing ceremony.
Our final morning will begin with meeting at the beach as a group for our last chance to see the sunrise and reflect on the wonderful time we had together. After breakfast, you may want to spend some time on the beach and take in the beauty -allowing time to internalize the gratitude for the time you had here.
The resort will take you to the airport for your brief flight to the mainland.
If you would like to extend your trip, let us know and we will put you in touch with the office manager to arrange for your stay. You will want to make this decision as soon as possible to ensure you will have a room available.
Belize is magical - and will leave you wanting to return again...
sign me up!!
What's Included
What's Not Included
- Additional gratuities you would like to offer the resort staff
- Additional gratuities you would like to offer tour guides of the adventure excursions
- Flights
- Insurance: Personal, Medical, Travel, or other.
- 'Market Price' meals, top shelf alcohol, food/drinks outside the resort
- Souvenirs, spa treatments, personal calls and phone expenses
- 6 glorious nights in a Treehouse
- Iced Welcome Drink upon arrival
- 6 scrumptious breakfasts
- 6 delicious lunches
- 6 incredible dinners
- All beverages (local alcohols)
- Admission fees to scheduled adventures: Monkey River Excursion and Pontoon Sunset Cruise
- Resort amenities: Bicycles, paddle-boards, kayaks, board games, etc.
- Inclusion in our Private Facebook Group. We will go here for initial planning and connection before, during, and after our retreat.
- Zoom meetings before the retreat to connect and meet each other.
- Transportation to/from Placencia Airport
Your room will be guaranteed only after your $500 non-refundable deposit is made.
If you are not able to secure your first preference for a room, you will be put on a waiting list for that room. Let us know your second choice.
You may pay:
- All at once
- In 2-4 installments
Final payment must be made by December 15, 2024.
payment options
- Treehouse with two Double Beds
- King/Queen Bed: $2900.00
- Bunkbed: $2600.00 (2 single beds in bunk frame)
- Treehouse with King Bed
pricing
pricing & PAYMENT OPTIONS
hold your spot here
Registration
Cancelation Policy
No downpayment is needed upon registering. Fill out the Contact page and you'll get on the list of interested attendees. From there we can answer any questions and send you all of the important information that you'll need for the trip. We will then send an invoice and set up a payment schedule.
A $500 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your place.
- Any cancellation will result in the loss of the $500 deposit.
- Cancellations made on or before December 15, 2024 will be fully reimbursed, (minus $500 deposit) .
- Cancellations made between December 16, 2024 and January 5, 2025 will result in a loss of 50% of the trip price, (minus $500 deposit) .
- Any cancellation between January 6th, 2025 and the trip departure will result in a total loss of funds.
We reserve the right to cancel the trip if if is not meeting the trip minimum. In this case, all payments, including your deposit will be refunded in full.
We highly recommend trip cancelling insurance. See our Travel Tips page for information about trip insurance.
You will initially fly into Belize City Airport (BZE). From there, a 23-minute domestic flight will bring you to the Placencia Airport (PLJ).
A member of the resort staff will pick you up from the airport (PLJ). And - you will not need to rent a car while at the resort. You will be able to bike or use one of the golf carts on the premises to travel into town.
Nope! You are welcome to have a treehouse to yourself! You will want to let us know as soon as possible so we can ensure availability.
We will have at least one group Zoom meeting before the retreat - AND if you are rooming with someone you haven't met - we will schedule two special Zoom meetings where you'll be able to chat privately. You'll also be able to chat in our Private Facebook Group! You'll be fast friends by the time of the retreat!
Yes, we highly recommend travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and medical coverage. Check our Travel Tips page for suggestions.
Swim suit, sunglasses, shorts, sandals...
You'll want shoes for walking in the rainforest, but most of your clothing will be casual island-wear. Once you've signed up, we will send a more detailed list of what to bring along.
A little longer in paradise? Yes please!!
Let us know if you'd like to arrive early or stay longer. We will help you arrange everything with the resort staff.
You have absolute control to participate in whatever you prefer. Just know that all of the activities we are offering have been carefully curated for your overall experience of this retreat. We hope you want to join in all we have to offer!! And there will no 'discount' for not attending an activity.
Must I have a roommate?
What is the weather like?
Highs will be in the low to mid 80s and lows in the mid 70s.
18% chance of rain.
PERFECTION!
faqs
what do i pack?
I'm concerned about rooming with someone i don't know
can i stay longer?
do I have to participate in everything?
do i need travel insurance?
where do i fly into?
is there transportation from the airport to the resort?
Will i need a car?
join us!!
your celebrant guides in belize
Donna Forsythe
You can read more about me in the About section. But I'll share a bit about my traveling journey. My love of travel began in childhood. We didn't go on extravagant trips when I was young, but every trip was turned into an adventure. Our yearly excursions involved simply going to the beach. There, hours were spent playing in the sand, riding the waves, and exploring the natural world.
I found that I am happiest when I am outside and near the water - so you'll find that our retreats often have a connection to the sea, rivers, and especially the outdoors.
I hope you'll join us and tap into your sense of adventure, as well as allow yourself to tune out the noise of the world, and give yourself the gift of relaxation.
Lois Heckman
Traveling is enriching on many levels, but simply naming the countries, cities and towns I’ve visited does not capture its value. Travel opens me to flexibility, which feels especially important as I approach these later years. I love learning about different cultures, history, architecture, customs and traditions. Traveling alone is a great time for self-reflection. Traveling with friends and colleagues is rewarding in another way – deepening connections and learning from one another. My travel mantra is – be afraid and do it anyway!
Having said that – let me give a quick overview of some of my adventures.
I acquired my taste for travel when I dropped out of college to hitch-hike through Europe. We’re talking 1970’s – which was, in essence, the 60’s. I spent almost a year there and always felt Europe calling me back, which it did by the 1980s when I toured with my blues-rock band. We had so much fun performing on two tours in Holland, Belgium, and two different tours in Mexico.
With my husband and adult son we’ve taken many trips including Barcelona, Portugal, Spain, Italy – especially loving Sicily, Morocco, and recently Cuba! Because my son lives in Norway, I’ve been there many times including a trip to the Arctic Circle. And of course our Celebrant Retreat in Scotland, which was amazing!
When I get home I find I appreciate it all the more! It’s been said that jobs fill your pockets, but travel fills your soul. As Celebrants, we are fortunate to have such soulful work!
Let's stay in touch!
We would love to hear from you! Click below to sign up to receive updates on current and upcoming adventures.
stay in touch!
Copyright 2024
