Hosted by Derek Warburton, CEO and Founder of Gurus Magazine, and executive producer Rachel Wilson, this year’s retreat was different. Warburton described the event as a much-needed balm for Los Angeles, still reeling from wildfires and the ongoing stress of a tumultuous political climate. “We felt like the city needed to heal, but we knew the show must go on,” Warburton said. And heal, it did—in style.
This year’s retreat put wellness front and center. Guests were pampered in every possible way, from facials by South Bay Plastic Surgeons to rejuvenating B-12 shots. And it wasn’t just about physical beauty: spiritual wellness took the spotlight, too. Guests indulged in sound baths, spiritual rejuvenation sessions with Hope the Root Healer, and even tarot readings by Derek Jameson. The vibe was luxury meets zen.
Award-winning expert Dr. Michael K. Newman also offered botox treatments using Jeuveau by Evolus—because why not combine inner peace with a little outer glow? For a refreshing twist, Santa Monica’s Laughing Monk added a dash of humor and spiritual healing, leaving everyone both relaxed and uplifted.
Gurus Magazine partnered with Habitat for Humanity LA, launching a donation center for those affected by the LA Wildfires. One of the highlights was an artsy yet heartfelt activity where guests painted seedling pots for wildfire survivors. A small but powerful token of growth, offering a glimpse of hope for those affected by the disaster.
On-site, local artist Joey DeRuy live-painted canvases to inspire guests, reminding everyone that the event wasn’t just about pampering; it was about giving back to the community and fostering a sense of unity in the face of hardship.
Guests were treated to a selection of high-end lifestyle brands embodying the essence of style and substance. Attendees were served deliciously seasoned popcorn from Gurus Award Winner Lauren Falcione while Perform H2O offered something to sip on. Guests were in high spirits with Lo Siento Tequila and Mezcal 33 on hand. Smart Swimsuits presented eco-friendly, stylish swimwear perfect for the upcoming summer. Guests also got to slip into gorgeous Italian-designed shoes from Moon D’Elle.
The retreat spotlighted the fresh taste of LA with local farmers such as Ayala Farms, the family-owned, women-run operation. People filled their burlap totes with fresh, locally sourced produce straight from the farm. Everyone also had the chance to create floral bouquets with Fleur Valentine LA, which got those spring vibes flowing.
Gurus Beauty Bar brought the glamour. Hollywood beauty expert Robyn Newmark worked magic, ensuring every guest left looking and feeling their best. From Pixi Beauty’s hydrating mist to Dr. Pimple Popper’s acne patches, every product was handpicked to cater to every guest’s unique beauty needs. Guests got pampered at Clique the Nail Spot, where they could get their nails done while sipping their favorite cocktails.
Of course, no Hollywood retreat would be complete without a photo shoot. Guests posed for iconic black-and-white portraits with celebrity photographer Josh Fogel, while the award-winning glam squad Joel Sebastian, Bongbong Buan, and Norman Salao made sure every hair and makeup detail was picture-perfect.
Special guests included Mara Dorne, Gurus Award Winner, who hosted live tapings of her podcast, BILF (Boss I’d Like to Follow), unfiltered conversations with influencers, business moguls, and everyday heroes. Behind the scenes, industry powerhouses like FilmCraft LA, KappaTV, and social media gurus Travis White & TLW Agency made sure every moment was captured and shared.
The retreat attracted a mix of stars like Nicole Young and Davina Potratz from Selling Sunset, Cynthia Bailey from Real Housewives of Atlanta, Laganja Estranja from RuPaul’s Drag Race, Rachel McCord (media personality), George Wallace (Comedian), Kearran Giovanni (Major Crimes), Joely Fisher (SAG-AFTRA Secretary-Treasurer), and even international royalty like Princess Sarah Jane Culbertson from Sierra Leone, and Norway’s Shaman Durek Verett, among others.
As the sun shone through the clouds and things came to a close on Saturday, the Gurus Pre-Oscar Retreat stood out as a convergence of style, substance, and community spirit—a snapshot of Los Angeles at its most authentic and luxurious. Healing, pampering, and connecting—this retreat was truly a celebration of what makes LA the star-studded city of dreams. It’s not only about looking good but feeling good, too.
