There’s a unique magic that unfolds when like-minded individuals gather, especially when they share a passion as vibrant as blogging. You know you’ve attended a truly successful blogger retreat when you return home not just inspired, but completely refreshed, with a renewed sense of purpose and a treasure trove of new ideas. These aren’t just mere get-togethers; they are invaluable opportunities to connect, learn, and recharge. Spending a few precious days with friends you usually only get to see maybe once a year – or perhaps finally meeting online acquaintances in person for the very first time – is an experience that is truly priceless. Add to that equation an abundance of delicious food, fine wine, engaging conversation, and an absolutely stunning location, and you’ve crafted the blueprint for the perfect, unforgettable weekend getaway. Such an experience transcends the ordinary, transforming into a vital catalyst for both personal and professional growth, especially for those navigating the often-solitary world of online content creation.
(That unforgettable moment when Lake Michigan’s serene beauty almost made me feel like I was cheating on my beloved Atlantic Ocean.)
Recently, I had the immense pleasure of joining a fantastic group of fellow food bloggers in the picturesque Traverse City, Michigan. This remarkable weekend escape, perfectly dubbed “Sharing By The Shore,” was masterfully organized by Rachel of Rachel Cooks and Erin of Well Plated by Erin. The carefully curated guest list included a mix of bloggers I’d had the joy of meeting before and several incredible individuals I was finally connecting with face-to-face. Our days were filled with non-stop snacking, collaborative cooking sessions, and savoring some truly exquisite local wines. Beyond the culinary delights, we dedicated significant time to sharing invaluable knowledge and insights. From mastering the intricate art of food photography to developing efficient time management strategies and even navigating the journey of writing cookbooks, no stone was left unturned. Blogging, by its very nature, can often feel quite isolating, making these face-to-face interactions incredibly precious. I am profoundly grateful for the rare opportunity to learn directly from peers, exchange experiences, and forge deeper connections within our vibrant community. If you’ve ever wondered what a blogger retreat entails, imagine a potent blend of professional development, creative inspiration, and genuine camaraderie – that, in essence, is what this extraordinary experience delivered.
Our wonderful group, comprising Rachel, Brandy, Katrina, Kristen, myself, Liz, Deborah, Krista, and Erin (with Monique regrettably not pictured in this particular moment), gathered to enjoy some delightful local bubbly from the incredibly hospitable L. Mawby Winery. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and scenic vineyards of Michigan, this winery offered a truly beautiful afternoon setting, epitomizing the charm and elegance of the region’s burgeoning wine scene. We indulged in their exquisite sparkling wines, each sip reflecting the dedication and passion behind Michigan’s viticulture. The experience was more than just a tasting; it was an immersion into the local culture, a celebration of regional flavors, and a perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and laughter among friends. The ambiance was relaxed yet sophisticated, making it an ideal spot to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty that Michigan so generously offers. It’s these moments of shared pleasure, set against such stunning backdrops, that truly cement the memories of a successful retreat.
Our visit to Traverse City coincided perfectly with its annual National Cherry Festival, an event that transforms the city into a vibrant celebration of its most famous fruit. We dedicated an entire afternoon to exploring the festive atmosphere, strolling through the bustling town, and, of course, making a pilgrimage to Cherry Republic. This iconic establishment is an absolute must-visit for anyone in the area, offering an incredible array of cherry-infused products. We had a fantastic time sampling their diverse selection, from sweet cherry salsas to tart cherry jams and everything in between. The highlight, however, was undoubtedly the food from their café. Seriously, if you ever find yourself in Traverse City, plan to have a meal here! The culinary creations were nothing short of extraordinary. I’m still dreaming about their Bacon & Blue Fig Jam Pie – an ingenious masterpiece featuring a crisp pizza crust topped with a rich blue cheese sauce, melted provolone and mozzarella, savory bacon, and generous dollops of their sensational Cherry Fig Jam. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy was utterly mind-blowing. Their Cuban Sandwich was equally impressive, boasting house-made pickles and a distinctive Cherry Mustard that added an unforgettable twist to a classic. Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor, showcasing the versatility of cherries in savory applications. Beyond the food, Cherry Republic exuded a fun, lively, and incredibly kid-friendly vibe, making it a delightful experience for all ages. I couldn’t leave empty-handed, taking home several of their top sellers: deliciously tart cherry sours (candy), a jar of their addictive cherry salsa, a tangy cherry horseradish sauce, and a few other delectable treats. It’s a testament to their deliciousness that by the time I sat down to write this post, the cherry salsa, cherry sours, sweet and spicy cherry trail mix, and dark chocolate-covered cherries had all officially vanished! It brought me so much joy to share a taste of Cherry Republic with my family upon my return, allowing them to experience a bit of the Traverse City magic.
Our culinary journey in Traverse City continued with an elegant and truly memorable dining experience at Aerie at the Grand Traverse Resort. Perched 16 stories high, the restaurant offered breathtaking, panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay, providing a magnificent backdrop to an exceptional meal. The ambiance was sophisticated yet inviting, perfect for an evening of fine dining and engaging conversation. We began our meal by sampling a delightful array of appetizers, each meticulously prepared and bursting with flavor. For my main course, I chose the Seared Diver Scallops, a dish that truly exceeded all expectations. The scallops themselves were perfectly cooked – tender, sweet, and caramelized to perfection – and were exquisitely complemented by a vibrant medley of English peas, a rich, smoky bacon jam, and a bright, zesty lemon curd. The combination of textures and flavors was a masterclass in culinary artistry. As someone who has developed a serious obsession with scallops recently, these were, without a doubt, truly over the top, setting a new benchmark for what seared scallops should be. Dining at Aerie was more than just a meal; it was an elevated sensory experience that perfectly captured the refined side of Traverse City’s vibrant food scene.
The majority of our time together, and perhaps where the deepest connections were forged, was spent at our charming rental house located in the serene Sutton Bay area. This comfortable and inviting space became our home away from home, allowing us to truly relax, be ourselves, and foster a deeper understanding of one another. The kitchen, in particular, became the heart of our retreat. It was here that we truly got comfortable, collaborating on meals, sharing laughter, and diving into honest conversations about our businesses, our challenges, and our aspirations. The relaxed setting of the house encouraged a level of intimacy and openness that is often hard to achieve in more formal environments. We weren’t just cooking; we were building community, sharing trade secrets, and solidifying friendships that span across the digital divide. This collaborative spirit, centered around food and fellowship, is what makes a blogger retreat truly special and impactful.
Put 10 food bloggers in a kitchen together, and you know you will be eating exceptionally well!
The culinary creations were, as expected, a highlight of our stay. From casual snacking to elaborate shared meals, every dish was a testament to the collective talent present.
Snacking… a delicious and healthy spread!
(Our delightful snack spread featured creamy Sabra hummus, perfectly paired with an abundant assortment of fresh, vibrant fruits and crisp vegetables, all generously provided by Door to Door Organics. It was a perfect blend of wholesome and delicious, fueling our creative minds.)
Fajita Night!! A lively, flavorful feast!
(For our bustling Fajita Night, we elevated the experience by utilizing Rachel’s incredible homemade fajita seasoning, which added an authentic burst of flavor, alongside her wonderfully nutritious healthy refried beans recipes. It was a hands-on, interactive meal that brought everyone together in the kitchen.)
Our days at the retreat always began with truly epic breakfasts, setting a high bar for deliciousness and nourishment right from the start. These morning meals weren’t just about sustenance; they were a chance to enjoy vibrant, wholesome food together and prepare for a day of learning and connection.
Waffle Bar! A customizable morning delight!
(A waffle bar proved to be an absolutely brilliant and incredibly fun way to feed our large group of enthusiastic breakfast-goers! With an array of fresh fruits, whipped cream, nuts, and syrups, everyone could customize their perfect morning treat.)
Yogurt Parfait Bar! Fresh, healthy, and endlessly versatile!
Goodness gracious, did we eat well this weekend! Every meal was a delightful discovery, packed with flavor and fresh ingredients. The emphasis on healthy, local Michigan foods was truly appreciated, especially at breakfast time. I firmly believe in the adage that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” and indeed, it definitely sets a positive tone for the entire day ahead. I incorporated yogurt into my breakfast routine on both mornings, loving its versatility as a creamy, tangy topping for waffles, especially when paired with an abundance of fresh fruit, offering a lighter, more wholesome alternative to traditional syrup. And it’s no secret how much I adore yogurt, fruit, and granola parfaits – a combination that never disappoints. I truly could eat like this every single day, savoring the fresh flavors and nutritional benefits.
Get in my belly, indeed! Each spoonful was pure bliss.
All of the incredible food we cooked and enjoyed “at home” during our spectacular weekend getaway was generously provided by a wonderful collective of wholesome brands: Milk Means More, ensuring we had plenty of dairy goodness; Door To Door Organics, which supplied us with an abundance of fresh, organic produce; Sabra, keeping our snack game strong with their delicious hummus; and Bob’s Red Mill, providing high-quality ingredients for our cooking and baking endeavors. We cannot thank these incredible sponsors enough for their vital support and for ensuring we were so exceptionally well-fed throughout the entire retreat. Their contributions truly elevated our culinary experience, allowing us to focus on creativity and connection.
This trip marked my very first time visiting Michigan, and I can honestly say I was utterly captivated by its beauty and charm. I seriously cannot wait to return, hopefully with my family, one summer. My dear friend Kristen eloquently documented her family vacation to Holland Beach a couple of years ago, and reading about her experience had already planted the seed that my family and I absolutely had to make the trip together someday. From what I was fortunate enough to witness during my brief but impactful stay, Michigan is an incredibly beautiful and diverse part of the country, boasting stunning freshwater coastlines, lush forests, and vibrant towns. I’m eager to get to know it even better, to explore more of its natural wonders and charming communities, preferably when the warm glow of summer illuminates its many treasures. The allure of Lake Michigan’s crystal-clear waters, the verdant landscapes, and the friendly atmosphere truly make it an ideal destination for a relaxing and memorable family getaway.
I simply cannot extend enough gratitude to Rachel and Erin for their exceptional organizational skills and warm hospitality, alongside the incredible support from Milk Means More, for hosting us this unforgettable weekend. This blogger retreat was everything I hoped for and more. I definitely returned home with a heart overflowing with joy, a belly full of delicious memories, and a spirit completely renewed. As a busy mom, I truly needed this little getaway, and I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better, more inspiring, or more rejuvenating experience. It was a perfect blend of professional enrichment, personal connection, and much-needed relaxation, reaffirming the invaluable role these gatherings play in our lives.
To dive deeper into the incredible nutrition provided by dairy products and discover a wealth of delicious recipes, be sure to visit MilkMeansMore.org. You can also connect with Milk Means More across their various social media channels, including Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest, for daily inspiration and updates on supporting Michigan dairy farmers.