Helping women reconnect with themselves

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate the power of women, not just in their personal lives but in their impact on communities and businesses.

For Torquay business owner and founder of Retreat Yourself, Kate Williams, it’s an opportunity to celebrate the growth of her business and the empowering journey she’s experienced over the past nine years.

Kate’s path to creating Retreat Yourself began with a realisation that many women, especially those balancing careers, family and personal life, often forget to make time for themselves.

“We’re constantly putting others first, and before we know it, we’ve forgotten about our own needs,” Kate explains.

“I wanted to create something that would remind women they deserve to pause, reflect and take care of their wellbeing.”

The Retreat Yourself mission is simple – to support women in reconnecting with themselves through self-care.

Kate wanted to create a product that would help women make self-care a priority, not as a luxury but as a necessity.

Each seasonal box is filled with Australian and New Zealand-owned wellness products that promote calm and mindfulness.

From skincare and wellness teas to self-care tools, each item is a gentle reminder to slow down and take time for yourself.

“I wanted to create a product that could be integrated into daily life, encouraging small, meaningful acts of self-care,” Kate says.

“Self-care doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s about those little moments that can make a big difference in how you feel.”

What began as a passion project in Kate’s Torquay beach shack has now grown into a thriving business.

Retreat Yourself has expanded into a new warehouse and recently opened a shopfront in Torquay.

And what started with Kate packing boxes with a few friends has now expanded to a team of 30 local staff, many of whom help pack and prepare the boxes.

“The growth has been incredible, and it’s humbling to see how many people are part of this journey,” Kate says.

“Creating jobs for locals and building a business connected to our community has been one of the most rewarding parts.”

Kate’s goal has always been to foster a culture of wellness and self-care.

Every product in Retreat Yourself boxes come from Australian and New Zealand businesses, supporting brands that share her values of sustainability and quality.

“Supporting Aus and NZ-owned businesses is central to everything we do,” Kate says.

“It’s about creating a ripple effect, helping local businesses while offering our customers products that promote their own wellbeing.”

As the business continues to grow, Kate remains committed to its purpose.

“It’s never just been about growth for the sake of growth,” she says.

“It’s about creating something that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.

“We want to help women embrace self-care as part of their everyday routine, so they can feel their best, not just for themselves, but for those around them.”

With 10,000-plus five-star reviews, Kate is inspired by how many people have embraced Retreat Yourself’s message.

“It’s humbling to know that our mission resonates with so many people,” she reflects.

“We’re not just providing products – we’re helping women reconnect with themselves, reflect, recharge, and feel empowered.”

Visit retreatyourself.com for more.