Dream Big Darling retreat returns to Central Coast in June
Application deadline for scholarship recipients is May 15
– Dream Big Darling, a nonprofit organization that supports emerging women in the wine and spirits industry, will host its 2025 in-person retreat from June 24 to June 26 in Parkfield and at the V6 Ranch on the Central Coast.
The retreat is open to scholarship recipients and will include a mix of presentations by industry leaders, educational exercises, and nature outings. The event focuses on professional development, personal growth and community building.
“Our aim is to directly connect the best and brightest women in the industry in a unique setting which allows for personal evolution, fun, and professionally rich content,” said Amanda W. Higgins, founder of Dream Big Darling. “There is nothing more powerful than in-person connection and the authentic relationships that result from valuable time together. Located just outside of the Paso Robles AVA, this year’s location, Parkfield, is a rural ranching community with enormous character, beautiful landscapes, and rancho hospitality…all creating the intimate and inspiring environment we know will greatly enrich this very special retreat.”
Speakers and mentors for the retreat include Amanda W. Higgins, principal at Full Cup Solutions; Maeve Pesquera, chief marketing officer and executive vice president of luxury at O’Neill Vintners and Distillers; Nancy Ulloa, owner and winemaker at Ulloa Cellars; Justin Trabue, owner of Ward Four Wines; Erin Kischenmann, managing editor of Wine Business Monthly; and Andrea Smalling, vice president of marketing at Bogle Vineyards.
Topics covered will include professional development areas such as “Harnessing Your Professional Power,” “Understanding Numbers and Risk,” and “Charting a Professional Course.” The retreat will also include mentoring sessions, horseback rides, nature walks, and live music concerts.
A total of 25 scholarship slots are available, each valued at $5,000. The application deadline is May 15. Eligible applicants include women in the wine and spirits industries from the United States and abroad who are in the early stages of their careers.
The scholarship includes shuttle service between San Luis Obispo Airport and Parkfield Lodge, lodging for two nights, and meals during the retreat. Recipients are responsible for a $250 administrative fee and their own airfare or other travel expenses.
Additional information about the retreat agenda, application process, and participating speakers is available at https://dreambigdarling.org/2025-retreat.
