May 3-6, 2027 in Sonoma, California

Early access to Haven 2027 opens this November. Join the waitlist to be first in line.

The Leading Business Retreat for

Interior Designers

JOIN THE WAITLIST

We’re reimagining the business of design, one studio at a time. Haven brings together ambitious designers and accomplished industry experts for four days of honest conversation, meaningful connection, and fresh perspective.

Step beyond the day-to-day of running your studio and rethink what success looks like. This is your opportunity to sharpen the way you think, strengthen the way you operate, and surround yourself with people who raise the standard of what's possible.

The

Conversations

Over four days, you'll explore the essential elements of building a remarkable design business, from becoming a stronger CEO to creating demand, increasing profitability, and shaping a studio that supports the life you want.

In our sessions, you'll get an inside look at the strategies, decisions, and hard-won lessons behind successful studios. You'll leave with greater clarity, a stronger foundation, and a renewed confidence for what's next.

The Operational Heartbeat of Your Business

Creating the systems, processes, structure, and rhythm that keep your firm moving.

Profitability & Financial Confidence

Understanding your numbers, refining your pricing, and driving sustainable profit.

The Client Experience

Creating a seamless client journey that builds trust and lasting relationships.

Positioning, Visibility & Demand

Strengthening your brand, expanding your reach, and attracting ideal clients.

Leadership & Studio Growth

Stepping into your role as CEO and cultivating a culture that supports your vision.

Become the Designer Clients Seek Out

Understanding what drives client decisions and becoming their first choice.

The Business Behind the Build

Strengthening vendor relationships and building a valuable industry network.

The Art of Design Presentation

Elevating how you present your ideas and communicate your creative vision.

The Open Forum

Dedicated time for small-group Q&As, candid insight, and advice from speakers.

TOPICS WE'LL COVER

The Sessions

THE EXPERIENCE

Where Conversations Flow

Our sessions are designed to be as engaging as they are insightful.

Digital presentation materials are provided and you're welcome to bring a laptop to take notes, explore ideas, and work through concepts as they're shared.

Beyond the classroom, we'll step into the Sonoma sunshine for our breakouts and open Q&A to bring the conversation outdoors.

MacArthur Place

OUR HOME IN SONOMA

Tucked into the heart of Sonoma wine country, MacArthur Place is a place where considered design meets warm California hospitality. With its lush gardens, inviting spaces, and relaxed sophistication, the property offers a beautiful backdrop for inspired conversations, shared experiences, and time well spent in good company.

EXPLORE THE VENUE

THE HIGHLIGHT REEL

The Experience, In Motion

MacArthur Place

Our home in SONOMA

Tucked into the heart of Sonoma wine country, MacArthur Place is a place where considered design meets warm California hospitality. With its lush gardens, inviting spaces, and relaxed sophistication, the property offers a beautiful backdrop for inspired conversations, shared experiences, and time well spent in good company.

Explore the VENUE

OUR HOME IN SONOMA

The Setting

Meet the

Gain an inside look at how successful design businesses really operate, with candid insight and actionable strategies from the people behind them.

Experts

At Haven, the conversations extend well beyond the sessions. Our speakers remain with us throughout the retreat, offering opportunities to connect over meals, ask questions, and exchange ideas in a more personal setting. And often, it's these unscripted moments that leave the greatest impression.

Meet our 2027 panel. These respected industry leaders are approachable, refreshingly honest, and willing to share the lessons behind their success.

Meet the

Melissa Baran

Experts

Regarded as a forward-thinking leader in the design industry, Melissa Baran founded Haven with a commitment rooted in fostering a sense of community, expertly curating and showcasing exceptional content and nurturing meaningful connections between like-minded creatives and their clientele. As the Founder of the Haven Workshop, her dedication to empowering and educating designers and home industry creatives has made her a pivotal figure in the field. Having hosted hundreds of designers, Haven's retreats are now widely considered an essential experience for those seeking to thrive in the ever-evolving world of design and innovation. Melissa will share insights for building a healthy social and marketing strategy with a focus on aligning your messaging with your values, amplifying your impact, and growing sustainably.

The

Schedule

Your Haven experience unfolds with purpose and ease. Across four thoughtfully planned days, business strategy, dynamic discussion, and grounding pauses invite clarity and creativity to rise, all within an atmosphere of genuine care that makes you feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

Dates: May 3-6, 2027

1:00 pm Event Check-In at MacArthur Place
Welcome, Mingle, Sips & Snacks
1:30 pm Speaker Introductions
1:45 pm Operational Flow with Kristin Hildebrand
3:00 pm Pricing & Profitability with Renee Bush
4:15 pm Break Before Cocktail Hour & Dinner
6:00 pm Welcome Dinner at Layla Restaurant









Monday, May 3rd

Breakfast
9:00 am Client Experience with Danielle Chiprut
10:30 am Establishing Creative Authority with Kim Lapin 
12:00 pm Lunch on Burris Lawn
1:00 pm The Art of Design Presentation Breakout
2:30 pm Social Strategy with Melissa Baran
3:45 pm Studio Leadership with Kristin Hildebrand 
Evening: Explore Sonoma with New Friends








Tuesday, May 4th

Breakfast
9:00 am Brand Strategy with Renee Bush
10:30 am Behind the Build with Danielle Chiprut
12:00 pm Lunch on Burris Lawn
1:00 pm Attracting Clients & Press with Jessica Burke
2:00 pm Open Forum: Small-Group Q&As
4:30 pm Break Before Cocktail Hour & Dinner 
6:30 pm Farewell Dinner on West Lawn








Wednesday, May 5th

7:30-11 am Breakfast at Layla Restaurant
8:30 am Professional Headshots with Jessica Burke 
Open Time: Final Reflection with Peers 
12:00 pm MacArthur Place Check Out
Retreat Concludes & Farewells







Thursday, May 6th

*Schedule is subject to minor adjustments as we finalize the details.

ON THE AGENDA

Dates: May 3-6, 2027

When you join us, you'll receive our Strategy Workbook, a 200+ page resource available in both print and digital formats.

Thoughtfully structured to help you examine every aspect of your business, this comprehensive resource includes audits, guided exercises, and new ways of thinking to bring greater clarity, confidence, and direction to your next chapter.

THE WORKBOOK

Where Ideas Take Shape

With around just 35 attendees, you'll have opportunities for one-on-one time with peers and experts.

Real numbers, real talk, and unfiltered strategies for the business behind the beautiful work. 

A Culture of Generosity

Deeper Connections

Speakers stay throughout the event, so conversations don't end when the sessions do.

Expert Access Throughout

Described by alumni as genuine, warm, and welcoming, Haven is a place where you'll immediately feel at ease.

Authentic Atmosphere

The Vibe Check

What Sets Us Apart

A closer look at what’s included, from the insights that move your business forward to the exceptional hospitality and every thoughtful detail woven in.

Inside Your Experience

The Conversations

The strategy, expertise, and tools you’ll take home.

  • Event-Wide Access to 6 Top Industry Experts
  • 9 Core Sessions with Our Speakers
  • Engaging Open Forum Q&A with Our Panel
  • Design Presentation Breakout
  • 200+ Page Strategy Workbook
  • Presentation Materials + Proposal Template

The Connections

New friendships that last long after the retreat ends.

  • A Network of Like-Minded Designers
  • Access to Private Retreat Instagram Group

The Curation

Every detail, intentionally chosen.

  • All Group Meals, Snacks & Sips
  • Curated Wines & Culinary-Inspired Cocktails
  • Signature Haven Tote
  • Handpicked Gifts & Surprises
  • Professional Headshots

*Accommodations and transportation not included.

Get a glimpse of Haven through our Instagram Reels.

The Highlight Reel

EXPLORE OUR REELS

THE HIGHLIGHT REEL

The Experience, In Motion

Corine Maggio

“My business is by all metrics in great shape and yet this has been life-changing.” 

I was always excited to partake in the retreat, but I never thought I would take away as much as I have. I hoped to leave with one or two ideas but instead I have a whole notebook full. I am so appreciative.

You're in

good company.

You'll be surrounded by 30–35 professionals at different stages of their careers, with diverse backgrounds and studio sizes.

From emerging designers to well-established pros, dynamic discussions and collective learning inspires growth for all.

Structured primarily for interior designers, Haven also welcomes professionals in related fields, including architecture, styling, and design-build. Our sessions remain focused on the business of design, with perspectives that enrich the conversation.

28% 1-2 Years 
41% 3-5 Years 
31% 5-10+ Years 

Years In Business

54% 0-2 People
34% 3-4 People
12% Have 5+ People

Team Size

*Our community brings together both formally trained and self-taught designers, with 47% having attended design school and 53% who have not.

We're building a stronger design community, one connection at a time.

From welcome dinners and fireside chats to nightcaps and conversations that linger long after the evening ends, some of the most memorable moments happen between the sessions. It's where the people you meet become the people you turn to.

IT STARTS HERE

Around the Table

12

Retreats Hosted Since 2019

424

Design Professionals Enrolled to Date

35

Pages in Your
Strategy Workbook

Attendees Hosted
Per Retreat

200

Choose Your Ticket Option

Retreat Pass

Early Access for our May 3–6, 2027 retreat opens November 9. Join the list to be among the first to receive ticket details and registration access, with the opportunity to secure your place before tickets become available to the public.

$5,750

join the waitlist

Most Cost-Effective

DESIGN DUO

PAY OVER TIME

PAY IN FULL

$4,750

During Early Access

Pay Over Time

Early Access for our May 3–6, 2027 retreat opens November 9. Join the list to be among the first to receive ticket details and registration access, with the opportunity to secure your place before tickets become available to the public.

Most Flexible

DESIGN DUO

PAY OVER TIME

PAY IN FULL

join the waitlist

$1,175/mo

$975/mo

During Early Access

Design Duo

Early Access for our May 3–6, 2027 retreat opens November 9. Join the list to be among the first to receive ticket details and registration access, with the opportunity to secure your place before tickets become available to the public.

BEST FOR TEAMS

DESIGN DUO

PAY OVER TIME

PAY IN FULL

join the waitlist

$11,500

$9,000

For Two During Early Access

Limited availability for our 2027 retreat

Please note: Tickets are non-refundable but may be transferred to another attendee.

Don't miss Early Access. Add it to your calendar:

Google

Apple

Outlook

A CLOSER LOOK

We're happy to help. Reach out through the chat portal in the bottom-right corner of this page, and our team will be in touch. Alternatively, you can send us a message through our contact page, or book a call with our team here.

Have additional questions?

IN THEIR WORDS

THE ARCHIVES

READ THE FAQ

Explore the Details

TALK TO ALUMNI

Schedule a call with a designer who's been there

Schedule a Call

Talk to Alumni

Want to hear firsthand from a Haven alum? We'll connect you to discuss their experience and help you decide if Haven is right for you. To schedule, visit our contact page, use the chat in the bottom-right corner, or email info@thehavenlist.com.

Want to hear firsthand from someone who's been to Haven? We'll connect you with a past attendee for an honest, firsthand conversation about their experience, favorite sessions, and what they've taken back to their business. We know this is a meaningful investment, and we want you to feel confident that Haven is the right fit for you.

To schedule a conversation, visit our contact page, email us at info@thehavenlist.com, or send us a message through our chat portal in the bottom-right corner of this page.

GET IN TOUCH

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an established design business to attend?

Not at all! In fact, the early stages of building your studio can be one of the most valuable times to learn from those who've been in your shoes. Our retreat offers an opportunity to establish a strong foundation, gain insight into how successful design businesses operate, and make more informed decisions as you grow.

Through candid conversations, actionable strategies, and direct access to experienced industry professionals, you'll gain valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead. You'll also connect with designers at various stages of business, building relationships and a network of support that extend well beyond the retreat.

I'm already well-established. How will the retreat benefit me?

Even the most established design businesses benefit from fresh thinking. Haven brings experienced designers into conversations that challenge familiar approaches, uncover opportunities for improvement, and offer new perspectives on running a successful studio. Our sessions explore the decisions, systems, and strategies behind thriving design businesses, from refining operations and strengthening profitability to leading teams and planning for long-term growth.

Just as valuable is the opportunity to exchange ideas with fellow studio owners and industry leaders. The range of experience in the room creates a dynamic where everyone has something to contribute and learn.

What’s the investment to attend, and what payment options are available?

Tickets for our May 3–6, 2027 retreat are $5,750, with Early Access pricing of $4,750 available beginning November 9 for those on our list, ahead of the public launch in January. For added flexibility, we offer 5-month and 12-month payment plans. Our Design Duo option offers $2,500 in total savings when two designers from the same studio register together during Early Access.

Interested in joining us? Sign up for Early Access to receive ticket details, exclusive pricing, and registration updates directly in your inbox.

What's included with my retreat ticket?

Your four-day Haven experience includes nine core business sessions, two interactive breakouts, and access to our speakers throughout the retreat. You'll also receive our 200-page Strategy Workbook, digital session materials, a client proposal template, and a professional headshot.

All meals, snacks, and beverages are thoughtfully provided by the culinary team at MacArthur Place, along with curated gifts and special touches throughout your stay. Beyond the sessions, you'll have opportunities to exchange ideas, build relationships with fellow designers, and stay connected through our private IG group long after the retreat concludes.

Are accommodations included in my ticket?

Accommodations are not included in your retreat ticket. However, we've partnered with MacArthur Place to offer Haven attendees an exclusive preferred room rate, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

While you're welcome to stay elsewhere, approximately 85–90% of our attendees choose to stay on property, enjoying the convenience of being just steps away from our sessions, shared meals, and evening gatherings.

Room reservation details and booking instructions will be provided following registration. We encourage booking early, as availability at our preferred rate is limited.

Do you offer a discount to groups of two or more from the same studio?

Yes! Our Design Duo ticket option offers special pricing for two attendees registering together, making it an ideal opportunity for studio partners or team members to experience Haven alongside one another.

For studios interested in bringing three or more attendees, we also offer group registration options. Please reach out to us on our chat portal on the bottom left of this page to discuss availability and details.

Additional information about Design Duo pricing will be shared when Early Access opens in November.

Is the retreat open to international attendees?

Absolutely. We've welcomed design professionals from all over the globe and love the perspectives they bring to our community. While our retreat is based in California, the strategies, insights, and conversations throughout the retreat are relevant to designers working in a variety of markets.

If you're traveling internationally and have questions about the experience or how specific sessions might apply to your business, our team is always happy to help.

Can I purchase a ticket for someone as a gift?

You bet! We've had attendees receive Haven tickets as gifts in the past, and we're happy to help coordinate the experience. You can register using the recipient's name and email address, and we'll send them everything they need to prepare for the retreat. If you'd prefer to keep it a surprise, simply contact us on our chat portal on the bottom left of this page before purchasing, and we'll help arrange the details discreetly.

How many people attend the retreat?

Haven is intentionally intimate, bringing together approximately 30-35 design professionals for a more personal and engaging experience. Our smaller group size creates space for candid conversations, thoughtful discussions, and genuine connections with fellow attendees and speakers.

Unlike larger conferences, you'll have opportunities to interact directly with our speakers throughout the retreat, from sessions and shared meals to informal conversations in between.

Will the speakers be available outside of their sessions?

Yes! This is one of the things that truly sets Haven apart.​ We intentionally curate a group of speakers who are not only willing to share openly and honestly, but who are present with you throughout the entire experience​ (no quick cameos or brief meet-and-greets​). Our panel experts will be with us from check-in through the farewell dinner, joining for their sessions, breakouts, and group meals.

You’ll also have the chance to connect with them in small groups during our open forum Q&A on day three.​ There’s ample time to engage, ask questions, and walk away feeling genuinely supported and inspired.​ We can’t wait for you to meet this incredible group of industry-leading women. Their talent is matched by their generosity, and they believe in community over competition just as deeply as we do.

Is there a way to connect with fellow attendees before and after the event?

The connections you make at Haven begin well before the retreat and often continue long after. In the weeks leading up to the event, you'll be invited to join a private Instagram group with your fellow attendees, giving you an opportunity to introduce yourself and begin building relationships before arriving in Sonoma.

After the retreat, your group remains a place to share experiences, ask questions, and support one another. Our alumni also stay connected through design markets, informal meetups, virtual conversations, and ongoing friendships. We'll provide a shared attendee contact list to make staying in touch even easier.

How are the sessions formatted?

Our sessions are designed to encourage open conversation, shared learning, and meaningful participation. Most are approximately 90 minutes and bring the full group together, creating an opportunity to learn directly from our speakers while exchanging perspectives with fellow designers.

Rather than traditional lectures, our sessions combine candid insights, real-world strategies, and interactive discussions. The range of experience in the room adds another dimension to the learning, with both emerging and established designers contributing valuable perspectives.

You'll also participate in smaller breakout sessions, including a dedicated design presentation workshop and our Open Forum, where you'll have the opportunity to connect with speakers in an informal, small-group setting and ask questions specific to your business.

Will you share recommendations for exploring Sonoma

Of course! Once you register, you'll receive access to the Haven Portal, featuring a curated guide to Sonoma and the surrounding area. From favorite restaurants and wineries to local shops, our recommendations are thoughtfully selected by our team and trusted local friends to help you make the most of your time in wine country.

What are the next steps after I register?

Once you register, you'll be directed to your Haven Portal, where you'll find everything you need to prepare for the retreat. This includes your attendee registration form, MacArthur Place accommodation details, a planning checklist, and other important information to help you get ready for Sonoma.

You'll also receive a confirmation email within one business day with a link to your portal, so you can easily revisit these resources as the retreat approaches.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs or allergies?

Yes. Prior to the retreat, you'll receive a form to share any dietary restrictions, allergies, or preferences, along with your meal selections. We work closely with the culinary team at MacArthur Place to thoughtfully accommodate our attendees' needs and ensure everyone can enjoy the dining experience throughout their stay.

If you have specific concerns or more complex dietary requirements, we encourage you to reach out to our team in advance so we can discuss your needs.

When does registration open for the 2027 retreat?

Early Access for our May 3–6, 2027 retreat opens in November 2026, ahead of our public registration launch in early January 2027.

We invite you to join our Early Access list to be among the first to receive ticket pricing, registration details, and the opportunity to reserve your place before registration opens to the public. All Early Access announcements and instructions will be shared directly via email.

Since 2019, Haven has brought the design community together for 12 retreats, each with its own stories and lasting impressions. As we prepare for our 13th gathering, take a look back at some of the moments that have shaped Haven.

Inside the Archives

“The best decision I ever made for my career was to go to a Haven retreat! It truly was a magical experience and I loved every minute of it! Thank you xo”

“Leaving California in tears. It's been one of the best weeks of my life. Truly. I’ve learned so much about who I am as a designer, my potential as a business owner and really, validation that even though the day to day doesn’t always look perfect, that I can define my own success and what that looks like for me and my family. I met some of the absolute best people while at Haven and I know that these will be lasting friendships, not just as a group of designers, but genuine friends!”

Cortney McClure

Amy Switzer

“The Haven experience was amazing in so many ways. Women sharing with women and connecting in ways that supports sharing, growth and opportunity is amazing! Thank you Haven for recognizing a need in our industry. Thank you to our panel of speakers for sharing and becoming friends. Thank you to all of the ladies who attended that I know I will continue along side of you during my professional and personal journey. Rock on Haven gals!”

Meghan Evans

“I had put myself at the bottom of my priority list, and this retreat was the best gift I’ve ever given myself… both professionally and personally.”

Judith DeMasters

FROM OUR ALUMNI

Reflections on Haven

Read more

Read more

FOUR DAYS TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND
find your kind of people. gain a fresh perspective. have the honest conversations. build with more intention. make room for what's next.

Find your rhythm, and your people.

Haven is the kind of getaway that reconnects you to your purpose, so your next season of business unfolds with ease. Step into a retreat that nourishes both your business and your well-being, surrounded by a community that reminds you you’re not in this alone.

GOOD THINGS AWAIT

See You There

JOIN US IN SONOMA

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

You can reach out to us on the chat icon on this page or fill out the form below.

Additionally, you can book a call with our team here, or email us directly at info@thehavenlist.com.

Thank You

Your message has been sent and we look forward to connecting with you very soon! Please allow 7-10 business days for us to respond. If you need to get in touch directly for any urgent needs, please email info@thehavenlist.com. In the meantime take a peek below and explore:

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