14 | Acquisition International, Influential Businesswoman Awards 2024 Best Idyllic Retreat CEO 2024 (North West England): Louise Monk ack in 2018, Louise Monk was walking her dog Archie in the stunning Lancashire countryside when she hit upon an idea. She wanted to showcase the fabulous surroundings that she got to appreciate every day growing up on her family farm. The dynamic duo Louise and Chris had met when they were teenagers, soon falling in love and later marrying. Raising three children, Louise helped Chris run his successful haulage firm – now a large haulage business, Monks Contractors, based in Mellor Brook employing over 120 local people. When the kids were grown, Louise developed a burning ambition to create a signature business herself. Four years later, Everything Retreat opened its doors to visitors for the first time. Louise says, “We are truly blessed to have some of the best views for as far as the eye can see. I’d completed a hospitality degree whilst bringing up the kids, so it was easy to see the potential to create something amazing on our doorstep. I said to Chris, “I’m going to build lodges on this land and make them so luxurious that people will travel from all over the country to enjoy what we take for granted”.” Construction of the first lodges on site was underway when the COVID-19 pandemic threatened to derail plans in early 2021. Fortunately, Louise had chosen to work with the local craftsmen who built her family home. The team hatched a plan which involved scheduling work on different lodges simultaneously. Work continued and everyone remained safe. In July 2022, Everything Retreat was ready for business. Today, the site offers luxury accommodation across a total of 12 individual lodges. Six Unique lodges themed around some of Louise’s favourite holiday destinations include Itambé (African theme), Koya (Japanese) and Skála (Scandinavian). Add to that, six identical Signature lodges designed to complement the outstanding natural beauty of the Ribble Valley and peaceful nights and chilled-out days are assured. Each lodge features a private hot tub, outdoor seating area and log burner for ultimate comfort. Everything Retreat’s concierge service assists guests with everything from transportation and recommending local attractions, to curating tailored experiences. The team are committed to making every stay an unforgettable experience. Opening on Fridays and Saturdays, the retreat’s aptly named ‘Balance Bar’ offers a range of delicious drinks and refreshing cocktails. There’s also a tantalising menu of dishes made on-site using locally sourced produce. And for those who prefer to dine ‘inlodge’, Everything Retreat delivers breakfasts, afternoon teas and cheese and charcuterie boards direct to the door. Despite the initial scepticism of neighbours and residents in the area, the project is a resounding success. With peace and tranquillity being the norm on-site, Everything Retreat enhances the local landscape, putting Ribble Valley tourism on the map for individuals, corporate clients and group wellness retreats. The company has already scooped several accolades including Ribble Valley Innovation in Tourism Award, Star in Tourism, New Business Award, Social Media Champion, and LUXlife’s ‘Most Idyllic Place to Stay in Lancashire.’ Currently, Louise is also a finalist in the prestigious EVA Awards. Louise says, “Our original idea for selfcatering lodges moved to a luxury concept very quickly. We want to work with clients to ensure every step of their journey is perfect. Our mantra is ‘everything and more’. We plan to become more and more detailed, offering bespoke packages for events such as private parties, baby showers, babymoons, proposals and corporate events.” Although the company’s onsite bar and restaurant were not in the original plans, Everything Retreat puts them to good use. Recent events have included live music, garden games, pizza night and barbecues. The company welcomed a ladies’ business networking group, and car manufacturers Porsche and BMW have both hosted events at the site in the same week! Louise says, “We also welcome high net worth individuals and celebrities who appreciate the privacy that the gated retreat offers, they can relax in the knowledge that they can rest and recuperate in seclusion.” Future plans for Everything Retreat are about to get even more exciting. There’s planning permission in the pipeline to convert an existing stable block into a brand-new wellness area. Alongside this converting a house which borders the property is also on the agenda. Louise explains, “We’ve bought a fivebedroomed house adjacent to the existing development which we are renovating. It will have a private garden, a professional kitchen and a swim spa. When it’s ready we’ll host celebrity chef collaborations and private dinners for unique celebrations there.” Where Louise and the team are concerned there’s no shortage of ideas for driving the business forward. Everything Retreat is developing a guest app featuring booking information and guided walks. The company also has an eye on sustainability. In conjunction with the Woodland Trust and local contractors, the development will soon feature ponds, owl boxes, beehives, and a tree-planting initiative is about to go into action. Interested in sampling an Everything Retreat? Contact the team via the company website for more information or follow @ everythingretreat on social media. Contact: Louise Monk Company: Everything Retreat Web Address: https://everything-retreat.com/ Based in the scenic Ribble Valley, Everything Retreat is a luxury hideaway where nature takes centre stage. The brainchild of Louise Monk, Everything Retreat offers stunning lodges and beautiful landscapes, allowing their guests to kick back and enjoy the finer things in life without a care in the world. We take a look at this one-of-akind retreat and Louise’s journey to where she is now. B
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