There’s something magical about opening that Rest & Play welcome bag for the first time. Each item tucked inside has been hand-chosen with care — not just for beauty, but for purpose. Every detail reflects the heart of the retreat: to remind women they are worthy of rest, joy, and connection.

This summer’s retreat in Blue Mountain Beach brought together ten women from four states for five days of laughter, reflection, and community. From morning coffee chats on the porch to quiet moments on the sand, these welcome bags were designed to elevate the experience — thoughtful touches that whisper you belong here.

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The Heart Behind the Bag

I’ve attended many conferences and retreats over the years — some where the “swag” was minimal, like a T-shirt and journal, and others where the gifts were abundant to the point of overwhelming. I’ve unpacked tote bags brimming with items — some lovely, some purely promotional — and found myself wondering what to actually do with it all once I got home.

Neither approach is wrong, but those experiences shaped how I wanted Rest & Play to feel. I never wanted our attendees to leave with stuff. I wanted them to leave with meaning.

Every woman who walks through the doors of Rest & Play deserves to feel seen, loved, and lavished — not with excess, but with intentional gifts that speak to her heart. Each piece is thoughtfully chosen to remind her of her intrinsic value, worth, and Kingdom purpose.

We’re so grateful for this season’s incredible partners and sponsors — women and businesses who believe in the mission of Rest & Play: to create sacred space for rest, renewal, and joy.

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What’s Inside

Rest & Play Canvas Tote by Printed Mint
A beautiful, neutral canvas bag printed with the Rest & Play logo — the perfect carry-all for beach days or morning coffee runs.

Turkish Towel by Kalkedon Towels
Lightweight, soft, and perfect for summer. Each towel is ethically made and adds a coastal touch to any day.

Disney Makeup Eraser Cloth
Gifted by Kelli Creates Magic, because self-care should be as fun as it is functional. These reusable cloths bring a little pixie-dust practicality to nightly routines.

Now Over Next by Hope Ragan Harris
A beautiful devotional book inviting women to live intentionally between seasons and right where they are — a message that aligns perfectly with the Rest & Play mission.

Makeup Wipes
A practical, travel-friendly essential tucked in as a thoughtful touch for those long beach days or cozy nights in.

Glow on the Go Mini Skin Retreat Kit featuring Oliveda
Our newest addition to the welcome experience — a complete mini-facial kit filled with Oliveda’s clean, waterless skincare. Each kit included sample sizes of the F06 cell active face serum, F07 anti-aging face cream, F09 anti-wrinkle eye cream, F42 corrective face cream, F64 eye elixir, and a clean skin towel and pad. Together, they created a luxurious “glow from within” moment that fit perfectly into the Rest & Play rhythm of self-care and intentional rest!

Lavender Vanilla Lip Balm & Vanilla Bean Body Butter by All Things Tallow
Locally made with clean, nourishing ingredients that deeply hydrate and soothe. A simple, intentional reminder to care for the skin you’re in.

Custom Gold Bracelet by The Crafted Makerie
Designed exclusively for our August retreat attendees (by one of our sweet alum, Kelsey!), these dainty gold bracelets feature coastal-inspired charms — a sand dollar, a pearl, and a star — as a wearable reminder of sisterhood, serenity, and self-worth.

Personalized Waterproof Zipper Bag with Floral Bath Salts by Four Arrows Farms
Each attendee received a custom waterproof pouch filled with our handcrafted floral bath salts — perfect for a beach tote or travel bag. Clean ingredients, intentional design, and a floral blend made to restore both skin and soul.

Rose Quartz Gua Sha by BeWell
A beautiful tool for gentle facial massage and self-care — encouraging moments of stillness and presence. Each gua sha symbolizes love, renewal, and nurturing energy.

Rest Scripture Memory Cards by The Daily Grace Co.
Simple truths to keep near — on a mirror, desk, or dashboard — reminding each woman of her worth and God’s promises.

Pastel Bible Highlighters by The Daily Grace Co.
A set of gentle-tone highlighters to make time in the Word even sweeter.

Rest & Play Tervis Tumbler
Because hydration matters — especially on beach days! Each tumbler was customized with the Rest & Play logo, blending function with beauty.

Blue Mountain Bakery Granola
A delicious gift from one of our favorite local partners — made with love right here on 30A! The perfect crunchy snack to enjoy with yogurt, or straight from the bag!

All together, these welcome bags were valued at over $200 each! Curating these bags and highlighting amazing local and small businesses or products I love is such a joy! It’s a little “Christmas morning” moment that kicks off our retreats in an exciting and fun way!

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More Than a Gift

Each retreat, my hope is that when attendees open their bags, they don’t just find items — they find gifts chosen with intention. Each piece, a reminder that rest and play aren’t luxuries; they’re lifelines. These curated treasures were meant to be used, enjoyed, and carried forward as small echoes of the retreat itself.

To every sponsor, collaborator, and small business represented here — thank you! You helped make this retreat and these women feel seen, special, and so loved!