What To Pack for The Spain Retreat & Destination Photoshoot
I am so excited for the fabulous ladies joining me in Cordoba, Spain October 7-12 2024 for a transformational retreat & destination photoshoot!
Here is a list of what I would recommend packing and some pro tips!
There is still ONE spot left for this retreat (it’s a private room too)! If you would like to join us please book a call >>here<<
Non-Clothing Essentials:
Passport: Can’t leave home without it!
Lightweight Crossbody Bag with Zipper: Pickpocketing can be an issue in Europe so I recommend a purse that zips, that you can wear crossbody in front of you and to place your hand over the zipper while walking. Amazon sells anti-theft bags like this for travel. Personally I use this popular crossbody bad
European Outlet Converter/Adapter: For charging devices.
Portable Phone Charger: Handy for long days out.
Medications/Prescriptions: Enough for the entire stay, plus a little extra just in case.
Optional- Your Preferred Toiletries: The house provides the basics (soap, shampoo, conditioner). However, if you prefer your own products we suggest packing travel-sized essentials (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.).
Sunscreen & Lip Balm: SPF is crucial, even in cooler weather.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during walks.
Makeup Essentials - while wearing makeup is totally optional, if you want to wear makeup for your photoshoot or nights out make sure you pack it!
Travel-sized First Aid Kit: Include basics like band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal needs.
Face Masks & Hand Sanitizer: For safety in public spaces & just in case!
Notebook/Journal & Pen: For retreat activities or personal reflections.
Optional - Hair Styling Tools - hair dryer or hot tools
Umbrella or Lightweight Rain Jacket: Just in case of unexpected rain.
Dry bag or ziplocks - For packing unexpectedly damp or wet items (sounds funny but can happen when traveling)
Clothing:
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for cobblestone streets; our retreat planners highly recommend Teva brand shoes for anyone with plantar fasciitis. I usually wear sneakers.
Travel Day Outfit: On long plane rides I like to wear comfy leggings or jogger style sweatpants, layered tops in case the plane is cold, and a sweatshirt.
Casual Outfits: For day-to-day activities (think breathable layers). You may want a comfy yoga outfit for the workshops!
Dressier Outfits: For dinners, something comfortable but chic (e.g., a nice dress, blouse with trousers).
Photoshoot Outfits - depending on the photoshoot experience booked, you should bring some cute clothes to be photographed in! To save room in your luggage these can also be your dressier outfits, or you can bring special pieces just for the photoshoot!
Light Jacket or Sweater: For cooler evenings.
Bathing Suit: Required for the spa experience and recommended for the rooftop outdoor shower in the house (a fun way to cool off and relax).
Sleepwear/Loungewear: Lightweight and comfortable.
Undergarments & Socks: Enough for the duration of the retreat. I also recommend a pair of compression socks on the plain. I like the brand Wellow or Comrad or Bombas for comfy compression socks.
Accessories: Sunglasses, hat, or scarf for added sun protection or style.
Optional Items:
Lightweight Scarf or Shawl: Versatile for layering or adding a touch of style.
Showercap: The retreat house doesn’t have shower caps so if you like to use one consider packing it.
Travel Pillow: Suggested for a long haul flight! My favorite is the J-Pillow.
Sunglasses: Spain is very sunny even in October!
Eye Mask: Eye mask can be helpful for sleeping on the plane or if you are in a shared bedroom. I personally really like this one with built in bluetooth speakers. I play guided sleep meditations to help me fall asleep and my roommate can’t hear it when I have this mask.
Ear Plugs: If sleeping In a shared room
Headphones: For the plane ride & train ride
Melatonin: Can’t always be purchased in Europe and helps many people fall asleep when they have jet lag! Advice - try using some at home first. I found it gives me terrible migraines so I can’t use this unfortunately. But I know many travelers who swear by it.
Camera or Smartphone: To capture memories. I am happy to help give you photo tips while we are out.
Books or E-Reader: For downtime.
Travel Tips:
Pack Light: Consider a carry-on and a personal item to make travel easier.
Dress in Layers - Layering is always key for maximum comfort
Mix and Match Clothing: Choose versatile pieces that can be worn in multiple outfits.
Leave Room For Souvenirs: Make sure you leave a little extra room for shopping and souvenirs! Shopping in Europe is the best! A tip is to pack a folding bag like this and then fill it with your goodies.
Laundry: The house does not have laundry access so plan accordingly
THE PHOTOSHOOTS:
The 30 minute photoshoots on Oct 11 are ideal for 1-2 outfits
The 90 minute VIP photoshoots on Oct 12 are ideal for 3-4 outfits. One Spot remains for this experience. It includes pro hair & makeup.
Below is a mood board to give you some inspiration!
Some brands I really like are
Farm Rio
Quince
Anne Fontaine
ASOS
Nordstrom
J Crew
Things to consider:
You can be as dressy or casual as you desire
The October 11 photoshoots do NOT include hair or makeup so you will need to self style
Outfits with tailoring through the waist photograph best
The house has a lot of color and pattern— consider leaning into solids like white, black or one of the main colors of the home (burnt orange, maroon red, deep blue, emerald green, royal purple or lavendar)
Details like ruffles or lace play up on the Spanish vibes as well as silk hair flowers pinned in your hair
Consider heels for the shoot
We will have a steamer at the house
For a bit of extra fun and flair consider a parachute dress, a gown, or a Spanish Flamenco outfit (you may be even able to find one to buy in Cordoba as a souvenir)