GOLDEN ESSENCE
RECONNECT, RESET, CREATE
A RETREAT FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS
Step into the Golden Essence Retreat—designed to support both your creativity and your business in a beautiful, inspiring space. Blending live shoots, guided education, real conversations, and meaningful connection.
This is your time to step away from the everyday, immerse yourself in creativity, and return home with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of direction..
BALI
24-27 OCTOB ER 2026
A LIFE AND BUSINESS
IN BALANCE
Over the past 8 years, I’ve built a business that supports not just my creativity, but my life and my family.
One that allows me to be present with my children.
To travel together.
To slow down when I need to.
To still provide, grow, and feel deeply fulfilled in what I do.
This retreat is shaped by everything I’ve learned along the way. The lessons, the mistakes, the growth, and the moments where I had to redefine what success actually looked like for me.
The way I work now isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters. Knowing my worth. Setting boundaries. Saying no when something doesn’t align. And building a business that supports the life I want to live.
Throughout the retreat, I’ll share openly from my own experience. Not as a set of rules or a formula to follow, but as a perspective built over years of learning what works for me.
Because there is no single right way to do this.
There is only the way that supports you, your family, and the life you want to create.
Golden Essence is about helping you find clarity in that.
To build something sustainable.
To feel confident in your decisions.
And to create a business that gives back to your life, not takes away from it.
THE EXPERIENCE
Golden Essence was created to bring photographers together in a space that feels inspiring, supportive, and real.
Over three nights in a private luxury villa, we’ll move between creative shoots, relaxed education sessions, open conversations, and time to slow down and connect. You’ll gain insight into how I approach my sessions, work with clients, and make decisions within my business, all while learning from the shared experiences of the group.
You’ll watch me work in real time, shoot alongside me, ask questions as they come up, and be part of meaningful discussions around creativity, confidence, and building a business that supports your life.
Between sessions, there’s space to breathe. Time by the pool, shared meals, wellness moments, and connection with women who truly understand this industry.
You’ll leave with more than just knowledge.
Clarity in your direction.
Confidence in your decisions.
Fresh inspiration for your work.
And a deeper understanding of how to grow both creatively and in business while building something that supports your life and family.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
Across the retreat, we’ll explore both the creative and business side of photography through a mix of live shoots, guided sessions, and open conversations.
Topics include:
Light, location, and creating natural, emotive imagery
Posing and directing clients in a relaxed and confident way
Building consistency in your work and finding your style
Creating a seamless client experience from inquiry to delivery
Workflow, preparation, and session flow
Pricing, packages, and knowing your worth
Brand clarity and attracting the right clients
Marketing and content systems that feel aligned
Boundaries, balance, and building a business that supports your life
Alongside the creative education, Mel will guide dedicated sessions focused on the business and mindset side of photography.
Together, we’ll explore confidence in business, direction, content creation, and using tools that support your workflow and growth.
There will also be space for your questions, your challenges, and your goals, allowing the learning to feel relevant and personal to where you are in your journey.
Everything shared comes from lived experience, from years of learning what works, what doesn’t, and how to shape a business that feels both sustainable and fulfilling.
Inclusions
Here’s what’s included in your unforgettable retreat:
3 nights accommodation in a private luxury Bali villa
All meals and in villa dining experiences
Three live styled shoots in beautiful natural locations
Guided education sessions with Cassy
Business and mindset sessions with Mel
Wellness experiences
Massages
Welcome gifts
An intimate group experience with like minded photographers
the location
This beautiful villa on the outskirts of Canggu will serve as our sanctuary for a deep dive into your art, passion and self discovery.
CANGGU, BALI
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12:00 PM Arrival – Check-in and settle into our stunning villa. Take some time to explore our beautiful home and get comfortable in paradise.
Welcome & Orientation – Brief introduction to the retreat and what’s ahead.
Cocktail Dinner – Toast to new beginnings and connections with a delicious dinner.
SAMPLE TIMELINE
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Morning Movement – Start our day energised and with clear minds
Education Session – Prep with me for the live shoots! I’ll talk through my process, the types of guides I use, and what to expect — full of insight, not templates.
Full Sun Beach Session & Drone Work – Capture the magic of a full sun, daytime beach shoot with stunning backdrops and drone shots.
Continued Education Post-Shoot – Dive deeper into the day's learnings with more educational content and business strategies.
Free Time / Pool Hangs – Relax, soak up the sun, or take a refreshing dip.
Sunset Shoot – Outdoor creative session.
Dinner & Movie Night – It’s been a big day! Let’s chill, connect, and enjoy.
*Please note this is a sample itinerary and may be subject to change as details are finalised to ensure the best possible experience.
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Coffee & Shopping – Indulge in a leisurely brunch and explore local markets or boutiques for unique finds.
Mindset Coaching & Goal Setting – Focus on personal growth and gain actionable insights to elevate your business.
Poolside Shoot – Immerse yourself in a captivating poolside session, capturing the magic above and below the water.
Edit & Review – Hands-on editing session, where you'll refine a photo from the retreat.
Massage Session – Relax and rejuvenate with a soothing massage.
Free Time / Poolside Relaxation – Unwind by the pool or take a peaceful stroll to recharge.
Dinner & Drinks – Enjoy a night out, reflecting on the retreat’s highlights and making lasting memories.
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Morning Movement – Wake up your body and mind with a mindful morning movement session.
Wellness Activity – Step out of your comfort zone with an invigorating experience designed to recharge your mind, push boundaries, and inspire growth.
Final Reflection – Share insights and personal takeaways from the retreat.
12:00 PM The final goodbyes – After the most incredible, unforgettable weekend, we’ll share our final hugs (and maybe a few tears) as we wrap up this transformative experience.
Optional Farewell Lunch – If you’re not ready to say goodbye just yet, join us for one last meal (not included) to soak in the memories before heading home.
THE SHOOTS
You’ll be part of three live styled shoots across the retreat, each designed to give you real insight into how I work.
You’ll watch me guide clients, work with light, and create connection in real time, while also having the opportunity to shoot alongside me and build your portfolio.
Throughout each session, I’ll talk through my decisions, settings, and approach so you can see the full process unfold naturally.
These shoots are designed to feel relaxed, collaborative, and inspiring, giving you space to learn, create, and grow in confidence behind the camera.
WHO THIS IS FOR
This retreat is for photographers who:
Feel ready to grow creatively and professionally
Want to build confidence in their work and business
Are craving more balance between life and work
Feel pulled toward creating a business that supports their family and lifestyle
Value connection, growth, and meaningful experiences
Whether you’re still building or years into your journey, there is space here for you.
This is for those who want more than just education.
It’s for those wanting clarity, direction, and a deeper connection to their work and the life they’re creating through it.
Investment
$3,550 + GST
Over 4 instalments
Subscribe for early access to secure your spot.
Subscribers get $200 off for the first 24 hours
25% deposit to secure your spot
*Get in touch if you require further payment plan options
A NOTE FROM CASSY
Golden Essence is something very close to my heart.
It brings together so many parts of what I love. Creativity, connection, growth, and real conversations in a space that feels safe and inspiring.
Over the years, I’ve learned that building a business isn’t just about success. It’s about creating something that supports your life, your family, and the way you want to live.
So much of what I share comes from the past 8 years of learning, growing, and shaping a business that allows me to be present with my children, travel together, and live a life that feels full.
I want that for you too, in whatever way that looks in your world.
I cannot wait to share this experience with you.
FAQs
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This retreat is for Photographers who own and know how to use their camera in manual mode. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, this weekend is for you. My aim is to offer a relaxed and open approach, creating a space where you can shoot, learn, and bond with other like-minded photographers. No matter your experience level, you’ll walk away with new skills, fresh inspiration, and lasting connections.
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Pack your camera gear, a laptop or iPad for note-taking and editing, comfortable clothing, swimwear, and plenty of positive energy. Closer to the retreat, I’ll send a detailed packing list to make sure you’re fully prepared.
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The bedding options in this house are either a king share room or single bed share room option, please specify your preference at booking and I will do my best to accommodate all.
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A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot in the retreat, followed by three equal instalments. In the unfortunate event that you need to cancel, any payments made up to that point will be non-refundable due to the high costs involved in organising the retreat and the difficulty of filling the spot at short notice. For example, if you cancel after the second payment is made, 50% of the total cost will be lost.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover any unexpected changes. -
The retreat is all-inclusive, covering your accommodation, meals, drinks, activities, mindset coaching, live shoots, and wellness experiences like massages. Your only additional costs will be flights, transfers, travel insurance, shopping and optional extras like the farewell long lunch.
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We’ll dive into topics like goal setting, finding your purpose, overcoming self-doubt, and building a business aligned with your vision. These sessions are all about empowering you to take your photography and mindset to the next level. These sessions also explore balance, boundaries, and building a business that supports your life and family.
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Shoot locations and concepts may evolve slightly depending on model availability and weather, but there will be three styled live shoots across the retreat and are subject to change depending on model availability.
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We’ll have three styled live shoots aimed towards maternity, motherhood and family with a mix of full sun, indoor and outdoor settings around the villa and nearby locations. You’ll have the chance to observe, shoot alongside me, and ask questions throughout. The shoots are designed to mimic real sessions, giving you practical insights into how I work and create.
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That’s totally okay! This retreat is designed to foster connections and build friendships. From the moment you join the group chat, you’ll start getting to know your fellow retreat-goers, and by the end of the weekend, you’ll leave with lifelong friends.
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Flights and transfers are not included in the cost of the retreat. Please book early to secure the best fares.
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Absolutely! If you’d like to extend your trip, I’m happy to recommend places to stay and things to do to make the most of your time in Bali.
If you have more questions, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!
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Please ensure you check the latest travel requirements online or consult your travel agent for up to date information.
Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
Visa: Visa on Arrival (30 days, extendable) or e-VoA.
Health Declaration: Complete SATUSEHAT app within 72 hours of arrival.
Tourist Tax: $50 paid at the airport
Payment Details & Terms
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at booking to secure your place.
The remaining balance will be split into three equal instalments:
10 June 2026
10 August 2026
10 October 2026 (final payment)
Payments to date is not refundable/transferable
Testimonials