The 2nd Annual Gurus Oscars Retreat: A Stunning Fusion of Wellness, Art, and Glamour

The 2nd Annual Gurus Pre-Oscar Retreat took center stage at the iconic Godfrey Hotel on February 28 and March 1, taking over the famed i/o rooftop bar for a two-day celebration of luxury, wellness, and creativity.

Hosted by the visionary CEO and Founder of Gurus Magazine, Derek Warburton and executive produced by Rachel Wilson, this year’s retreat took on a fresh, purpose-driven approach. Reflecting on the current challenges facing Los Angeles—from the aftermath of devastating wildfires to the political turbulence gripping the city—Warburton shared, “Los Angeles needed a moment to heal. But as any Angeleno knows, the show must go on. This year, we focused on nourishing our guests in body, mind, and spirit.”

And nourish they did. The retreat featured a plethora of wellness experiences designed to rejuvenate and restore. South Bay Plastic Surgeons treated guests to massage and luxurious hand and facial treatments, while Dr. Michael Newman, Gurus Award Winner, provided Jeuveau by Evolus wrinkle treatments. Attendees were further pampered with B-12 shots and spiritual wellness offerings, including transformative sound baths and reiki energy healing sessions from local favorites like Laughing Monk and Hope the Root Healer. Live performances from Derek Jameson featuring Jessica Hoover on one day followed by Derek’s Tarot readings and DJ Kappa the next added a dash of mystique and soul to the event, ensuring all senses were engaged in the experience.

In keeping with the spirit of community and giving back, Gurus partnered with Habitat for Humanity LA to support wildfire survivors. Guests participated in a hands-on donation initiative by painting messages of hope on seedling pots for families rebuilding their lives. The retreat also saw the live artistry of Joey DeRuy, whose full canvases of inspiration ignited creativity throughout the event.

The luxury continued to unfold as guests indulged in a curated selection of lifestyle brands. Gurus Awards Winner Lauren Falcione, “The Blonde Italian,” wowed attendees with her gourmet popcorn, featuring signature seasonings that delighted every palate. The Evolved Co’s Perform H2O kept everyone refreshed with their groundbreaking hydration products, while Lo Siento Tequila and Mezcal 33 elevated the experience with their luxurious spirits. Sustainability and style collided with Smart Swimsuits’ eco-friendly swimwear, and Moon D’Elle’s stunning shoe designs were a showstopper. VIP guests were also treated to exclusive gift boxes from Seeverse Gummies, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.

A true highlight came courtesy of Ayala Farms, a women-owned, family-run farm offering fresh, locally grown produce. Guests filled burlap tote bags with farm-to-table goodies, made custom smoothies and took home green goodies as the perfect healthy prepping for the Oscars weekend ahead. Fleur Valentine LA’s floral station invited guests to craft their own custom bouquets, adding a touch of fresh, natural elegance to the experience. In alignment with the values of sustainability and environmental consciousness, the retreat also partnered with the nonprofit Plant Based Treaty, dedicated to advocating for plant-based solutions to address climate change and environmental challenges.

 

At the #GurusBeauty Bar, Hollywood’s most sought-after beauty guru, Robyn Newmark, pampered guests with bespoke skincare and beauty recommendations. Guests were treated to a luxurious selection of beauty products, including Pixi Beauty’s Hydrating Milky Mist, Dr. Pimple Popper’s SLMDS pimple patches, Kevin Murphy’s Hair Resort Spray, and a range of hair treatments from Saints & Sinners. All-natural Balm Diggity Lip Balms and Nicole Miller Lip Glosses added the finishing touch to the beauty experience. VIPs also received exclusive gifts, including the award-winning Skin Wand Pro and were treated to nail art at Clique the Nail Spot’s pop-up.

Of course, no Gurus event would be complete without a photo studio, and the Oscars Retreat did not disappoint. Celebrity photographer Josh Fogel captured stunning black-and-white portraits, with touch-ups by Gurus Beauty Award winners Joel Sebastian, Bongbong Baun, and Norman Salao.

A particularly special feature of the event was the live taping of BILF (Boss I’d Like to Follow), the podcast hosted by Gurus Award Winner Mara Dorne. The show, which features candid conversations with influencers and entrepreneurs from all walks of life, added a personal touch to the glamorous festivities.

From FilmCraft LA’s top-tier production gear to the innovative solutions provided by Kappa Vision, and the social media magic spun by TLW Agency, every corner of the retreat exuded an unmistakable sense of passion, authenticity, and Hollywood glamour. This wasn’t just an event—it was an immersive experience that celebrated the boundless creativity and potential of Los Angeles.

The retreat attracted an eclectic mix of Hollywood’s brightest stars and influencers, including Nicole Young and Davina Potratz (Netflix’s Selling Sunset), Taleen Marie (Real Housewives of Dubai), Cynthia Bailey (Real Housewives of Atlanta), Rachel McCord (Media Personality), Laganja Estranja (RuPaul’s Drag Race), George Wallace (Comedian), Carly Hughes (American Housewife), Don and Liane Benjamin (We Are The Benjamins), and many more, along with special guests like Princess Sarah Jane Culbertson from Sierra Leone and Norway’s Shaman Durek Verrett.

As the sun set and the city lights shimmered to life, one thing was clear: the Gurus Magazine Oscars Retreat was more than just an event—it was a moment of pure magic. A breathtaking fusion of talent, creativity, wellness, luxury, and healing, it encapsulated the true spirit of Hollywood and provided exactly what the city needed at this moment in time.