Sweet Fragrance Retreat Brings Women Together to Begin Again
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
A three-day gathering in Bonners Ferry focused on healing, faith, and meaningful connection
By Like Media Team
Set against the quiet beauty of North Idaho, the Sweet Fragrance Retreat invites women into a space intentionally created for healing, reflection, and renewed purpose. Taking place May 19–21, 2026, at Boulder Creek Retreat Center in Bonners Ferry, this three-day experience brings together women navigating widowhood for meaningful connection, faith-centered encouragement, and time set apart from the pace of everyday life.
Founded by Linda Elliston, Sweet Fragrance Retreat was born from personal loss and a desire to create a place where women could gather, be understood, and find strength together. “Widowhood can feel isolating in ways others may not fully understand,” shares Elliston. “This retreat is about creating a place where women can come together, support one another, and begin to heal in a setting that reflects God’s presence.”
The retreat is grounded in a Judeo-Christian foundation and welcomes any woman who is comfortable with that emphasis. Throughout the three days, attendees will experience a thoughtfully designed schedule that blends worship, teaching, and quiet time with opportunities to engage with nature. From devotional sessions and group discussions to creative activities and evening campfire gatherings, each element is intended to support emotional, spiritual, and physical renewal.
Set at the scenic Boulder Creek Retreat Center, the environment itself plays a meaningful role in the experience. Surrounded by forest, water, and open sky, the property offers access to hiking trails, a lake with canoes, and a sauna, allowing attendees to slow down and reconnect not only with others, but with creation. “There is something powerful about stepping into nature and allowing it to quiet your heart,” says Elliston. “It creates space to hear, reflect, and begin again.”
The cost to attend is $198 per person, a deliberately reduced rate made possible through community support. The price includes lodging, meals, all sessions, and full access to the retreat amenities. “We wanted to make this as accessible as possible,” Elliston explains. “The suggested cost was higher, but we are working with donations and scholarships so that no woman misses this opportunity due to financial barriers.”
Accommodations are designed to support both connection and comfort. Rooms feature multiple bunk beds, creating a shared, community-oriented environment, while limited private accommodations are available for those with specific needs. The retreat aims to host at least 50 women, with the ability to welcome more as space allows.
Each day of the retreat is structured to provide both guidance and flexibility. Mornings begin with quiet reflection and time outdoors, followed by teaching sessions and shared meals. Afternoons allow for personal rest, creative expression, or continued conversation, while evenings bring everyone together for worship, encouragement, and community around the campfire.
More than an event, Sweet Fragrance Retreat is designed to be a starting point. Women are encouraged to carry what they experience back into their daily lives, supported by continued connection with others they meet during the retreat. “My heart is that every woman leaves with peace, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose,” says Elliston. “There is still so much ahead, and we don’t have to walk it alone.”
Registration is now open, and early sign-up is encouraged, though space will remain available up to the week prior to the event if openings are still available.
To register or for additional details, visit SweetFragranceWidowsRetreat.com.
Sweet Fragrance Widows Retreat
Bonners Ferry, Idaho
208.610.5635
Facebook @SweetFragranceWidow'sRetreat
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