
Photo by Lauren C Photography
I recently launched my next workshop experience and we’ve been all about telling our gal pals everything we have planned. With a great squad, an even better schedule, and lots of opportunities for fun & creativity.. I cannot wait to get to Nashville in March. It will be my first time and I adore getting to share these experiences with new and old friends. If you aren’t sure why to join us, let me break it down for you!
FIFTEEN | Girl power.
ALL our female creative friends are welcome. Photographers, calligraphers, graphic designers, videographers, wedding planners, and more.. we encourage you to sign up! Our goal is to educate the creative entrepreneur and empower our fellow lady boss. You can sit with us, no matter who you are.

Photography by Lauren C Photography
FOURTEEN | Destination headshot.
Being surrounded by photographers, there are ample chances to sneak out and take photos of one another. Sneak out for a scheduled portrait swap, OR urge your new girlfriends to come along with you for a photo stroll. Take advantage of the beautiful new area you’re in and update your professional headshot.. or just get some epic photos to take home!

Photo by Ashton Kelley Photography
THIRTEEN | Cue the Confetti.
Our trips ALWAYS include a confetti toss. This is our traveling tradition and we love to include everyone so we can remember the entire group. If you come along with us, you can guarantee you’ll be part of one of our very favorite photo opportunities.

Photo by Ashton Kelley Photography
TWELVE | Moments to Favorite.
We carry a “favorite moment of the day” journal on all of our trips. This was gifted to me by an attendee, and it’s now become another tradition we treasure. We leave it out every day, letting all the girls write through it as we go. When it’s finally full, I plan to make a digital version for everyone to reflect back on. Hope you get to write in it, soon!

Photo by Alicia Wiley Photography
ELEVEN | Candid fun.
What happens on an AKP Retreat… will be documented heavily! There is a lot of time for fun and shenanigans. As friendships start to form, group activities become more and more interesting. From spending a day at Disney to going out for dancing to live music, there is something in each destination to do and plenty of people to have fun with!

TEN | Roaming destinations.
Each location is different, ensuring a varying experience from your last. Providing different locales, sights, things to do, and educational content keeps the experience fresh for both new attendees, and those who travel with us time and time again.

Photo by Alicia Wiley Photography
NINE | The little things.
While we also offer styled shoots at the workshop, there are tons of thoughtful little details that will make your weekend memorable. From signage to custom cookies, nothing goes unnoticed by the AKP Squad. Enjoy the perks by grabbing a pretty snack, or photographing the decor.
Photo by Lauren C Photography
EIGHT | Welcoming, warm hugs.
Nervous about coming along? Don’t worry. Our welcoming committee will be standing by for your arrival. With hugs, swag, and lots of excitement.. You’ll feel as though we’ve been waiting for you, all along. We’ll calm your nerves and get you settled so you never have to fret it.

Photo by Lauren C Photography
SEVEN | Swagtastic gifts.
We have been lucky to work with some incredible sponsors over the course of our five travel events. These people selflessly donated the most charming pieces to welcome our guests with, and they photograph beautifully. I think we can all agree.. we could always use a little more swag in our life.

Photo by Lauren C Photography
SIX | Things to do & sights to see.
For the wanderlust, there is always a bunch to do when you’re traveling! From eating at the hottest restaurants, checking out local art, viewing tourist sights, or just roaming around with friends.. a shortage of things to do should not be a problem! In your event guide, we’ll even prepare you with a list of recommendations to fill your free time should you want to explore.

Photo by Chantell Cruz Photography
FIVE | Intimate conversation.
Group settings can be intimidating. We get it! We do our best to make sure that we connect you with on a personal level. By providing ample support and a team that can’t wait to nurture your confidence, you can rest assure that you will never be sitting alone. There are plenty of opportunities to break away for lunch with ladies you click with, snag a mentor for a personal conversation, or take part in smaller, more focused panel discussions.

Photo by Lauren C Photography
FOUR | Creative outlets.
Our leading team of event designers continue to blow us away with styled shoots. Participants all have a chance to take part in lavish styled opportunities that provide creative freedom, beautiful details, multiple styled stations, and real-life models that will offer authentic reactions to your coaching. These are great portfolio builders and a fun way to shoot in a new destination!

Photo by Lauren C Photography
THREE | You time.
This event is all about and for you. It’s exactly what you make it. We provide a schedule that you can follow, or pick and choose what you’d like to be part of. Whether you take away tons of information to apply toward your business, focus on creating amazing relationships, or sneak away for a little R&R.. we want you to enjoy YOUR trip. Grab a drink with your new friends, steal away an hour to read a book, or attend one of our classes. As we like to say, “retreat yo’self!”

Photo by Lauren C Photography
TWO | Educational value.
The AKP Retreat is hosted by Ashton Kelley Photography, but includes a plethora of mentors with diverse views, styles, and knowledge to share. It’s important that we are always interchanging topics and teachers to ensure you get the most up-to-date information for your business. By offering such a strong group of lady leaders, we are able to connect with attendees on a more personal level by dividing and conquering.

Photo by Lauren C Photography
ONE | Lasting bonds.
The most priceless part of the AKP Retreat is the relationships you take away. Strangers will quickly become friends, and the memories will start flowing throughout your weekend together. We encourage all of our attendees to mix and mingle, meeting as many people as possible through the weekend. You’ll meet some of your biggest cheerleaders right here, US INCLUDED! Don’t believe me? See for yourself, below.
Video by Ashton Kelley Photography
Ready to join the squad for our next trip? We’re heading to Nashville on March 30th and staying until April 2nd. This is a great workshop to kick the year off strong with creative focus, a drive for organization, and slaying the client experience in 2017. Want more information? Click here.
Hope to see you in the Spring!
-Ash
December 19th, 2016 at 11:17 am
Best experience ever! Seriously, take the time a treat yourself to one of these retreats because it will seriously give you the boost you need in your business along with friendships that are truly amazing!
December 19th, 2016 at 12:14 pm
I attended the AKP Magical Retreat in Orlando, November, 2016. I was so nervous. I had seen the other attendees’ work. I felt VERY out of my league. I was also a commuter so not staying on property. I arrived super early and was greeted by Ashton and her squad. They are AMAZING!!! I was welcomed with open arms and warm hugs from the moment I stepped in the door. I am not hooked. I would love to attend the Nashville and The Keys Retreats this year, but due to finances for Nashville and schedule for The Keys, I don’t think it’s going to be possible. I am so disappointed. I say if your are nervous or on the fence, DO IT! I promise you will not regret it. I came away with so much confidence in myself. I learned some new tricks of the trade. Most important – I made some friends I hope to have for a lifetime. I can’t thank Ashton enough.
December 19th, 2016 at 1:54 pm
The AKP retreat experience has truly changed my life and mad such an impact on my business in the last year that I urge you to sign up as quick as you can!!! And prepare to meet a handful of new friends that you’ll instantly fall in love with! Xoxo!
December 20th, 2016 at 1:36 pm
I absolutely cherish the memories made at the two Retreats I have had the honor of being a part of and speaking at! Ashton – I just love your heart and passion for this experience, and I can’t wait for more memories to be made! Counting down the days! Can’t wait to see many new faces and hug the familiar ones, too!
January 10th, 2017 at 10:28 am
Seems like you really enjoy leading your workshops!!!!
January 10th, 2017 at 2:16 pm
The conference looks like so much fun! I love that you have special traditions.
January 10th, 2017 at 2:33 pm
We do have a lot of fun, Sarah! Thanks so much!
January 10th, 2017 at 2:31 pm
This looks like SUCH a good experience! LOVE the best moments of the day notebook, and the guaranteed confetti bombs!
January 10th, 2017 at 2:33 pm
Thanks Ciara! SO many confetti bombs!! I literally want to get a canon sometime. Dream big, right? HAHA.
January 10th, 2017 at 3:20 pm
I’ve seen your other blogs with the “swagtastic” gifts, and they’ve always looked incredible!!! Great reasons to go, for sure!
January 11th, 2017 at 12:26 am
Thanks girl! I’m looking forward to some new elements this year. It’s going to be an exciting one!!!
January 10th, 2017 at 6:41 pm
Oh my gosh, I’m so jealous!!! How awesome are YOU??? This seems like perfection – great job!
January 11th, 2017 at 12:26 am
It’s such a group effort, I can hardly take credit. Thank you so much, Lori! Would love for you to join us sometime! :)
January 13th, 2017 at 9:40 am
Beautiful photos. Everyone and everything look amazing!
January 13th, 2017 at 10:28 am
Appreciate you saying that, Anne!
January 13th, 2017 at 9:42 am
What a fun photography event. love this. xx
January 13th, 2017 at 10:29 am
Thanks! We like to think we have a good time. :)