Awaken Esthetics Retreat: A Defining Experience

Author: Jessica Leigh XO8 Chief Development Officer and Lead Sales Representative

There are moments in your professional journey that feel like turning points- experiences so profound that you can mark time as “before” and “after.” Attending the Awaken Esthetics Retreat on behalf of XO8 Cosmeceuticals, hosted by the incredible Shawna Rocha, was exactly that kind of moment for me.

A Space of Connection and Inspiration

From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and filled with the type of energy only estheticians and beauty professionals can create. The retreat was a rare opportunity to step out of the daily hustle of being an Entrepreneur and a Mom and immerse myself in a community of visionaries, educators, and innovators who are truly shaping the future of our industry. For many of my fellow attendees, it was a welcome break from back-to-back treatments in the spa room. While we all really love what we do, it was an incredible experience to step out from our day-to-day and connect with like-minded professionals. 

Networking That Builds Futures

The retreat wasn’t just about education; it was about connection. Over coffee chats, community meals, and casual conversations, I met estheticians and spa owners from all over the country- each with their own story, challenges, and dreams. These exchanges weren’t just networking moments; they were seeds of collaboration and friendship that I know will continue to grow well beyond this event.

There’s something powerful about being surrounded by people who understand your passion, your struggles, and your vision. The retreat reminded me that we don’t have to build our businesses- or our legacies- alone.

My Fireside Chat with XO8 Cosmeceuticals

One of the highlights of the retreat for me was hosting a Fireside Chat on behalf of XO8 Cosmeceuticals. Sharing XO8’s mission, science, and transformative power with such an engaged group was not just an honor- it was energizing. As we all shared our most inspirational moments, I took a moment to reflect and think about how truly grateful I felt to be in that moment, with these people. I could never have imagined such a special moment when I started in this industry almost 20 years ago. 

And perhaps one of the most humbling moments of my career: I was invited to return next year as a headline speaker. To be trusted with a platform like that is both an incredible honor and a responsibility I am ready to rise to.

A Line in the Sand: Before and After

I walked into the Awaken Esthetics Retreat with curiosity and excitement. I walked out with clarity, inspiration, and an unshakable feeling that my future- and the future of XO8- is brighter than ever.

This was not “just another event.” It was a space of transformation, proof that when you step into the right rooms with the right people, everything can shift.

There was before this retreat. And now, there’s after.