(And why this might be the most important blog you read before launching your next retreat)

As a mentor and coach who helps other yoga teachers, healers, and soul-led coaches fill their retreats with ease, was I hesitant to write a post about not filling one of mine?

Absolutely.

But I value transparency over perfection, and the truth is, many of the business coaches you see offering advice on retreats aren’t actually hosting them in this current, ever-evolving climate. Strategies that worked five years ago, or even last year—don’t always cut it now.

So I want to let you in on a behind-the-scenes look at my most recent Bali retreat, what really happened, and how I still walked away with thousands in profit—even though I only had three guests.

The Backstory: What Really Happened in Bali

Let’s start with the facts: I technically did fill my retreat.

I keep my retreats intimate and boutique-style, and this one had a goal of 10 guests, but I actually had 11 amazing humans sign up. But as the weeks unfolded, I started receiving last-minute cancellations. One after another. To the point where it actually became laughable, because in all my years of hosting retreats, I’d never experienced more than one cancellation per retreat—if any.

By the time the retreat rolled around, only 3 guests remained.

Yes, I could have cancelled. But I knew that would disappoint the people who still trusted me to deliver a transformational experience. So I made a choice:

To show up fully. To serve wholeheartedly. To create magic for those 3 guests.

And wow—did we ever.

So… How Did I Still Profit Thousands?

This is the part most people don’t talk about. But I will, because I want you to succeed—not just survive—when you lead your retreats.

Here’s how I still profited:

1. I Charged My Worth

I don’t price my retreats based on who might come. I price them based on the value I know I deliver. Years of experience, carefully curated details, deep transformation, and high-level support—that doesn’t come cheap, nor should it. I trust my pricing and own the value I bring, regardless of the guest count.

2. I Had a Clear, No-Refund Policy

Yes, some of the guests who cancelled only paid their deposits. But several had already paid in full—and my no-refund policy honored the time, energy, and resources I invested into months of planning and promotion. This is a boundary that protects my nervous system, and I stand by it.

3. I Used Up-to-Date Marketing Strategies

I didn’t rely on outdated launch methods or half-hearted promotions. I used my proven strategies (the same ones I teach in my Mastermind and 1:1 containers) to fill 11 out of 10 spots. Even though several cancelled, the revenue from deposits and full payments meant my profit margin still covered everything—including my luxe spa weekend in the jungle, pre-retreat. 🧖‍♀️

Here’s What I Want You to Know

Chances are… you’re planning a retreat (or dreaming of one). Maybe you’ve got a date locked in, maybe you’re still working up the courage to hit “launch.” But there’s a whisper inside that says:

“What if I don’t get enough sign-ups?”

Trust me, I’ve felt that too. And it’s exactly why I support my clients to:

✅ Raise their prices confidently
✅ Set clear boundaries around refunds and policies
✅ Pivot and refine their marketing when something isn’t working
✅ Keep their peace and profits intact, regardless of how many people show up

Want to Learn How to Do the Same?

I’m hosting a free live training soon where I’ll break down the exact retreat strategies I teach inside my coaching containers—including how to profit thousands even if you don’t “sell out.”

💌 Want to join the waitlist? DM me the word “Retreat” on Instagram @AliTempleMentor and I’ll make sure you get first access when we open the doors.

You deserve to lead powerful retreats and be well compensated for them.

This is just the beginning 💫

XOXO,

Ali