At the intersection of Life and Leadership…
Embracing Ambition: The Experience
A Retreat for Ambitious Women Leaders, September 19 – 21st in Canmore, Alberta
A wellness retreat at the intersection of life & leadership
Reconnect with your ambition, recharge your spirit, and forge powerful connections in the breathtaking Canadian Rockies.
When was the last time you truly paused to focus on YOU?
You’ve been looking for this: A weekend designed for women leaders who thrive on ambition but yearn for moments of rest, reflection, and connection.
It all takes place in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Canmore, Alberta on September 19-21st, 2025.
Welcome to the inaugural Embracing Ambition weekend
- Curated conversations by the firepit and on scenic hikes.
- Opportunities for yoga, meditation, journaling, and reflection.
- A one-of-a-kind dining experience with like-minded women.
- Expert-led discussions on women’s finance, strategy, and personal growth.
We’re looking for twenty women leaders who are:
- Passionate leaders at any stage of their career who are open to growth and new experiences
- Looking to unplug from their daily lives
- Seeking deeper connections and meaning to their life
- Willing to try something a little different.
Just like a good dinner host, we know how to curate a room.
Step out of the noisy conference spaces full of bad coffee and pushy business cards and into one-on-one reflective conversations between kindred spirits in a room of cozy chairs. You will leave the weekend feeling refreshed, centred and motivated to reclaim your personal and professional ambition. Opt in, or opt out to activities – No pressure!
Space is limited to 20 women. The group is small by design to maximize connections among participants.
Take up as much space (or as little) as you like.
A typical day at the retreat...
Rise early and enjoy morning yoga outside.
Morning coffee is served in a cozy chair in one of the gathering rooms.
Listen to experts, and fuel your brain with a chef-inspired brunch.
Morning reflection time to think about you…and the next version of you!
Conversation flows between you and your fellow retreat attendees. How do we have so much in common with each other?
You enjoy the sessions about women and finances: you’ve got this!
A brisk walk after lunch gets you re-energized.
You dress up for dinner, finding the sparkles in your wardrobe, back behind all the black clothing
You get back to your room, with a full cup, and tired eyes, ready to do it all again the next day.
Friday, Sept 19
12:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Arrive at Mountain Luxury Penthouse Accommodations at Grand Rockies Resort
3:00 p.m.
Welcome Energy Booster with guest Canmore visitor info and weekend run down with Sammies, Snacks & Salad Bar
5:30 p.m.
Meet and Greet in the Luxury Bar to enjoy Hot appetizers and dessert style dinner served with complimentary glass of prosecco
8:00 p.m.
Early to rest evening (hot-tub, relax, connect)
Saturday, Sept 20
7:00 a.m.
Optional yoga in the mountains and/or early starter snacks available in suites
9:30 a.m.
Chef-inspired breakast buffet
11:00 a.m.
Round Robin sessions
2:00 p.m.
Mid-day nourishment & ‘Expert Session’ with mocktail tasters demo
3:30 p.m.
Walk with an expert OR Hammock Therapy session
5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Personal time to relax and get dressed
7:00 p.m.
Get dressed up for a stunning VIP Dinner at The Grande with a Key Note message, “Taking Charge of your Life Vision” from Jenny Mitchell.
9:00 p.m.
Late evening Connector in Canmore – Optional libations & music in Downtown Canmore.
Sunday, Sept 21
7:00 a.m.
Optional yoga in the mountains and/or early starter snacks available in suites
9:30 a.m.
Chef-inspired breakfast buffet
10:00 a.m.
Morning Round Robin sessions around the fire / hot cocoa lounger
12:30 p.m.
Mid-day nourishment & ‘Key Note’ session, ‘Creating your Power House’ by Sherry Schaefer
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Optional Mountain Experience at Johnston Canyon Hike (Beginner Trail)
4:30 p.m.
Farewells & departures. *Note: Some Easterners may choose to depart around noon for their travel home.
About Mountain Luxury Penthouses:
Experience the ultimate Rocky Mountains getaway with Mountain Luxury Accommodations. Located in Canmore, Alberta, just 25 minutes from Banff National Park, our multiple penthouse suites have everything you need for a perfect vacation. Each suite is situated on the top (4th) floor of the Grand Rockies Resort, boasting a great few of the three sisters, which can be enjoyed from the private decks or individualized suite hot tubs. Accommodations are first come, first served.
We have combined the best of both worlds: penthouse living with all the amenities of a boutique concierge hotel. The Embracing Ambition Retreat will be anchored in 3 large penthouses on the top floors of the Grand Rockies Resort. These communal living rooms will be used for casual sessions with our expert guests. There are three rooms per penthouse.
About Canmore
Canmore, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offers an unforgettable experience. This charming mountain town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning hiking trails.Its unique blend of breathtaking scenery, local charm, and adventure activities makes it an ideal destination for women seeking both relaxation and exhilaration. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself physically or nurture your spirit, Canmore provides the perfect setting to explore, grow, and connect with nature and community.
Arrive as strangers. Leave as friends. Let your transformation begin.
About your Hosts
Jenny Mitchell & Sherry Schaefer
Chavender’s mission is to help #2’s become #1’s in work and life.
Through One on One and Group Coaching experiences, they empower women to embrace their ambition to be the best version of themselves.
Known for their ability to curate rooms of people, Jenny Mitchell and Sherry Schaefer are the co-coaches behind Chavender, and your weekend retreat in Canmore. Between them they bring over 50 years of experience mentoring and coaching women to become who they were always meant to be.
About your Hosts
Frequently asked questions
What is the dress code for the retreat?
The weekend is about being comfortable. Bring things that you love to wear and that you can sit in, and hike in, and explore in. That being said, on Saturday night, we’re dressing up to have dinner and hit the town (if that’s your thing) So pack one fun outfit for that.
What should I bring?
Remember when you sent kids to camp and there was a list 2 pages long? Well it’s not like that. Clothes, outdoor clothes, hiking shoes, bathing suit (for the hot tub!) water bottle, sun hat, sunscreen, notebooks and favorite pens, yoga clothes. Most of all, bring your smile!
How do I get to the retreat location from the airport?
There are several private shuttles with the most cost effective one being the public one. It runs several times a day and varies in price point from $55 – 75 depending on time of day. It takes approximately 2 hours from Calgary Airport to Canmore. https://vivogreentravel.com/public-shuttle/.
Alternatively you could rent a car, especially if you want the option of sightseeing before or after the retreat. Cars are available from several providers at the Calgary airport, we recommend booking ahead.
What types of accommodations are available (e.g., shared rooms, private rooms)?
There are private rooms which will be available through the hotel in the building. There will also be private rooms in the 3 penthouse spaces that guests will be occupying at the retreat. Within the penthouses there are 3 separate rooms with different configurations of bedrooms. Reach out to [email protected] to find out more details.
Are meals provided, and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
All of your meals will be provided, from the time you arrive Friday until you leave on Sunday. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated, yes.
Are there any additional amenities like a spa, pool, or fitness centre?
Yes! There are hot tubs in each of the three penthouse room balconies. Additionally there is a main hotel hot tub indoor and outdoor, along with a heated pool, and fitness centre for all guests of The Grande Rockies Resort.
The other great thing about this location is the opportunity to use outdoor equipment from the hotel’s Stay-Well program. There are fat bikes, paddle boards, trek poles and bear bells, yoga Mats and binoculars that are available to sign out for some great fresh air exploration.
Are there any additional fees for activities or services?
All of your activities and meals are included for the retreat. Anything that you book with the hotel, or spa appointments are extra.
Is there flexibility to adjust the schedule or participate in optional activities?
This retreat is designed as an opt-in event: you pick what you do, and what you choose not to do. Completely up to you!
Are there any prerequisites or experience levels required for participation?
There are no prerequisites. As long as you identify as a woman leader, there’s a spot for you. We have 20 spots available and are expecting a mix of emerging and executive level leaders to be joining us.