The “Dear Self” wellness retreat and brunch celebrated its 10th anniversary on Sunday, March 22, bringing together women for a transformative experience centered on mental health, healing, and accountability. Held on a 43-acre estate, the event created a safe and intentional space for women to reflect, connect, and grow.

Founded by radio personality Sherrell Duncan, the retreat followed this year’s theme, “Clean It Up,” encouraging attendees to reset their thoughts, relationships, and internal narratives. The weekend experience included yoga, mindful breathing, and expert-led discussions designed to support women through personal challenges.

The retreat began on Saturday evening with an intimate “Ladies Night,” where guests participated in yoga, breathing exercises, and mocktail tastings. The evening set a calming tone and allowed attendees to prepare mentally and emotionally for the main event.

On Sunday, guests arrived at the estate and were immediately welcomed with intention and care. As each car pulled up, attendees were greeted, checked in by name, and presented with a sunflower along with a wristband. After parking, they were welcomed at the entrance by hostesses who guided them to their assigned tables, creating a seamless and warm arrival experience.

The brunch took place inside an elegantly transformed barnyard space, blending rustic charm with upscale design. The venue was thoughtfully curated with stylish décor, attentive servers, and a vibrant atmosphere. A live DJ provided music throughout the day, while a drummer accompanied the set, creating a dynamic and immersive sound that elevated the entire experience.

The event’s floral attire theme added an extra layer of beauty and cohesion to the day. Guests arrived in vibrant floral patterns that perfectly complemented the barnyard setting, enhancing the natural, fresh, and elegant aesthetic of the space.

Beyond the main brunch area, the retreat offered a variety of engaging spaces across the property. Guests could explore vendor stations, enjoy a mocktail area set beneath a canopy, visit a photo booth, or indulge in dessert selections. To ensure ease and comfort, transportation was available throughout the grounds. Alfred Duncan, along with his dedicated team, provided golf cart rides for attendees, transporting them wherever they needed to go, whether it was to grab desserts, visit vendors, or explore different areas of the retreat. This thoughtful touch added convenience and enhanced the overall guest experience.

In addition to the dining and social spaces, attendees had access to wellness and beauty offerings, including a skin beauty bar with facials, massages, manicures, and assisted stretching sessions. The event also featured curated food stations, including a waffle station and a dessert display, contributing to a vibrant and engaging brunch environment.

The event was hosted by Nori Nori, executive producer of the Good Morning Show on WPGC, airing weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. She guided the program with energy and professionalism, keeping the audience engaged throughout the day.

The Sunday program featured six speakers, including a keynote address from Duncan’s sister, who shared a powerful story of survival and transformation. Now a certified life coach, her message emphasized resilience, healing, and purpose. Panelists delivered impactful conversations that resonated across the room, touching on grief, love, faith, and the power of God. They also spoke openly about overcoming adversity, navigating mental health struggles, facing moments of despair, and the importance of forgiveness and reclaiming one’s identity. Each story connected with someone in the audience, reinforcing the importance of community and shared experiences.

Duncan emphasized that the goal of the retreat was to ensure women did not feel alone in what they faced privately. She highlighted the importance of creating a safe space where women could be honest about their struggles and begin the process of healing.

The event concluded with a meaningful and reflective exercise. Each attendee was given a note and invited to write a letter to herself. Guests had the option to include their name and mailing address or leave the note anonymous. The letters were then left on the tables and collected as attendees exited, symbolizing release, accountability, and personal commitment.

As the day came to a close, every guest received a thoughtfully curated goodie bag filled with wellness items and treats, including products from Black Girl Vitamins. The gifts served as a lasting reminder of the experience and the care behind the event.

The “Dear Self” retreat began 10 years ago as a personal practice for Duncan, who started writing letters to herself while working through her relationship with alcohol. What began as a private exercise eventually grew into a shared accountability practice with a small group of clients and has since evolved into a large-scale wellness movement.

Through powerful storytelling, intentional programming, and a strong sense of community, the anniversary event continued to fulfill its mission—reminding women that they are not alone, that healing is possible, and that every season, no matter how difficult, can be overcome.

For more information on this amazing experience, connect on social media @dearselfbrunchweekend

Founder: @mrssherrellduncan

Photos courtesy of @onlymissno @jenleeion