Treat Yo’Self Right: How to Choose the Perfect Conferences & Retreats for Your LGBTQ+ Business — and Have a Blast Doing It!

It's time for our next 'Treat Yo'self' Fridays in May blog post. I have talked many times about joining lgbtq organizations and professional groups, and one of the perks is the annual retreats or conferences a lot of these groups offer. Not only do you learn something to take back to your business, but you have usually have a little YOU time along the way!

Picture this: You’ve just landed at a vibrant conference or a soul-recharging retreat tailored for entrepreneurs like you. The buzz in the air is palpable, the people around radiate possibility, and you know this experience could change your business trajectory, and give you memories (and connections) for life.

But hold up! Not every conference or retreat is created equal, especially when you’re an LGBTQ+ business owner carving out a bold space in the market. Picking the right event isn’t just about booking flights and packing bags—it’s a strategic decision that can either skyrocket your brand or leave you feeling drained and disconnected.

This blog post is your ultimate guide to confidently choosing conferences and retreats that fuel your business growth and personal joy. I’ll share tips on how to balance business ROI and self-care fun, how to evaluate your options, and what to prioritize so you can come back stronger, brighter, and ready to slay.Let’s get to it!

1. Define Your Business Goals First: What Do You Really Want?

Before diving into the dizzying sea of events, get crystal clear on what you want to achieve.

• Expand your network? Are you looking to meet potential clients, collaborators, or mentors?

• Learn specific skills? Do you want targeted workshops or keynote speeches tailored to your niche or market challenges?

• Find fresh inspiration? Maybe a retreat with wellness and creativity boost is your vibe.

• Raise brand visibility? Opportunities to speak, sponsor, or exhibit can be game-changers.

  
  

Hot Tip: Write down your top 3 goals. This drill keeps you focused and helps you later spot events that align perfectly.

💡 FACT: Entrepreneurs who set clear goals prior to events report 40% higher satisfaction and business growth post-event

2. 🌈 Seek Out Events Embracing LGBTQ+ Inclusion & Values

Your time and energy deserve spaces that celebrate authenticity and inclusivity.

• Do their speakers, sponsors, and attendees reflect LGBTQ+ communities?

• Are safe spaces, pronoun badges, and inclusive language standard?

• Does the agenda incorporate topics about queer entrepreneurship, equity, and social impact?

• Are allyship and intersectionality genuinely embraced?

Hot Tip: Reach out to event organizers or past attendees on social media. Ask about the atmosphere and inclusivity firsthand.

💡 FACT: LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs thrive in inclusive environments, with 67% reporting accelerated growth when community and belonging are prioritized

3. Evaluate the Event Format: Conference, Retreat, Hybrid?

Not every business event operates the same way. Choose your style wisely based on goals and energy:

• Conferences: Great for networking, showcasing your brand, and catching fast-paced inspiration.

• Retreats: Ideal for reflection, deep learning, and self-care with immersive workshops.

• Hybrid options: Get best of both worlds with virtual access and in-person connection.

  
  

Hot Tip: Reflect on your personal bandwidth and what recharges you. A retreat focused on wellness can be as powerful as a big industry summit if it suits your needs.

4. Budget Smart Without Sacrificing Value

Conferences and retreats can quickly add up. Factor in:

• Registration costs

• Travel and accommodation

• Meals and incidentals

• Potential income loss for time away

• 
  

Hot Tip: Early bird tickets, scholarships, and volunteer opportunities can help. Always weigh the potential ROI versus expenses.

💡 FACT: According to a 2023 survey, 62% of entrepreneurs report a positive ROI from investing in targeted, value-packed events.

5. Mix Business With Pleasure: Plan to Treat Yo’Self

Yes, your conference or retreat should be productive, but it’s also your time to recharge and have fun!

• Schedule moments for exploring local sights

• Connect informally with peers over meals or events

• Allow time for wellness activities like yoga, meditation, or spa treatments

• Pack comfortable clothes and set boundaries to avoid burnout

  
  

Hot Tip: Build in personal "fun goals" to your schedule. For instance, “Try one new local dish” or “Take a morning nature walk.”

💡 FACT: Entrepreneurs who enjoy downtime during professional events report 20% higher creativity post-event

6. Create a Networking Game Plan That Works for YOU

Networking can feel overwhelming if you think it means shaking hands nonstop. Instead, approach it on your terms:

• Identify 3–5 key people or companies you want to connect with

• Use event apps or social media groups to prep conversations

• Attend mixers, breakout sessions, or casual meet-ups

• Follow up authentically after the event

  
  

Hot Tip: Bring fun swag or memorable business cards that showcase your brand and personality!

💡 FACT: 85% of successful partnerships and collaborations start at curated networking events.

7. Post-Event Strategy: Capitalize on What You Gained

Your event magic shouldn’t end when you unpack your bags. Here’s where Left of Str8 Media and Consulting steps in:

• Organize your new contacts and send heartfelt follow-ups

• Share highlights on your social media channels (with photos, quotes, or lessons learned)

• Implement one new strategy or insight in your business plan within 2 weeks

• Reflect on what worked and what to tweak for next time

  
  

Hot Tip: When you’re ready to turn the momentum into measurable growth, booking a Brand Glow-Up Call with Left of Str8 Media and Consulting can help you map out social content, refine messaging, and amplify your impact post-conference or retreat.

Own Your Time, Your Growth, and Your Fun 🎉

Picking the right conference or retreat is a savvy blend of strategic goal-setting and self-love. For LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, it’s about finding spaces that celebrate your full authentic self, all while feeding your business and your soul.

As you plan your next event adventure, remember to treat yo’self: invest wisely, seek inclusion, mix business with pleasure, and come back ready to conquer. And when you do, know that Left of Str8 Media and Consulting is your partner in translating those fresh ideas and connections into unstoppable brand growth.

Ready to grow your business and boost your brand post-event? Let's connect!

📧 scott@leftofstr8.com | Book Your FREE Brand Glow-Up Call

💡 FACT: Conferences and retreats have the power to boost business revenue by up to 30% when paired with a strong post-event plan