PASO ROBLES MICRO-RETREAT
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS:
Are you ready to accelerate your career and step into your full potential?
We are looking for eight emerging leaders to join us for an intensive, high-impact 48-hour immersion in the heart of the Central Coast. From May 15th–17th, the Dream Big Darling Paso Robles Micro-Retreat offers a "behind-the-velvet-rope" look at the wine industry’s most successful operations, blending high-level technical education with strategic personal growth.
Downtown Paso Robles Square
Paso Robles Wine Country
The Value
This experience is valued at $2,000 per person. However, through the support of our partners and our mission to develop talent, we are offering this opportunity for a $150 registration fee. Hour for hour, there is no higher-impact program available for those looking to expand their professional network and gain real-world insights that simply aren't taught in classrooms.
A 48-Hour Leadership Playbook
Viticulture & Winemaking: An immersive walk through the historic Paderewski Vineyard (Epoch Estate Wines) with Director of Winemaking Jordan Fiorentini.
Hospitality Innovation: A business overview of Hope on Park (Hope Family Wines). Director of Hospitality Jo Armstrong shares how this global brand reimagines the visitor experience.
The Iconic Paso Robles Wine Festival: A deep dive into one of California's premier wine events. Attendees will experience this massive gathering of over 200 producers, gaining a unique regional overview of one of the most dynamic wine communities in the world.
Executive Coaching: A deep dive into CliftonStrengths assessments to identify and leverage each participant's unique leadership edge.
Entrepreneurial Inspiration: A mentorship dinner at Rock Bound Cellars with NASA-professional-turned-winemaker and alumna Fio DeRodeff.
Strategic Positioning: A session with Robert Hall leadership on their brand reimagination and new national partnership with Whole Foods.
Success Mindset: A "Manifesting Success" meet-and-greet with Nancy Ulloa (Ulloa Cellars).
The Details:
Dates: May 15–17, 2026 (includes a virtual kickoff on May 11th).
Investment: A $150 registration fee (required upon acceptance).
What’s Included: A Ticket to Paso Robles Wine Festival, Full Curriculum and Two Nights of shared lodging (2 persons per room).
Availability: Strictly limited to 8 spots to ensure an intimate, high-value experience.
Apply Now
If you are a passionate professional ready to gain a new perspective and achieve your biggest goals, we want to hear from you.
Applications Close:
April 27th, Winners Announced April 29th
ONGOING SCHOLARSHIPS
the Lyric Scholarship:
Dream Big Darling is thrilled to announce the Lyric Scholarship, a special opportunity available to members of our community who are facing extreme medical circumstances and need financial assistance. We understand that life's beautiful melody can sometimes be interrupted by unforeseen challenges.
In honor of our beloved founding member, Melodee Crank, whose love and passion continue to inspire us, Dream Big Darling is committed to awarding up to three $1000 scholarships each year to deserving individuals in our community.
The Lyric Scholarship aims to provide support and relief to women in the wine and spirits industry who are navigating difficult medical situations, ensuring that they can continue pursuing their dreams and aspirations. We believe that everyone deserves a chance to overcome obstacles and create their own harmonious journey.
If you are facing extreme medical circumstances and could benefit from financial assistance, we encourage you to apply for the Lyric Scholarship. Together, we can make a difference and help restore the melody of life for those in need.
Dream Big Darling is honored to offer this scholarship and remains grateful for the love and passion demonstrated by Melodee Crank, who continues to inspire us all.
Apply today and let us help you turn the page to a new chapter filled with hope, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams.
Disclaimer: Some limits may apply. Only available to women in the wine and spirits industry who have participated in previous Dream Big Darling events.
the Cup of Jo Scholarship:
Dream Big Darling is thrilled to announce the Cup of Jo Scholarship, a remarkable opportunity for members of our community who require financial assistance to pursue further education. This scholarship is a heartfelt tribute to Jo Kennedy, a cherished mentor and friend of Dr. Meredith Dillon, who served as a pivotal role model and advocate for continuing education and mentorship. Jo's presence at the local coffee shop, spreading joy each morning, inspired us to name this scholarship a "Cup of Jo."
At Dream Big Darling, we firmly believe in the transformative power of education. That's why we are committed to awarding up to three $1000 scholarships annually to deserving individuals who aspire to expand their knowledge and opportunities through additional education.
The Cup of Jo Scholarship aims to honor Jo Kennedy's legacy by supporting and empowering women in the wine and spirits industry who are dedicated to their educational journey. We understand that financial barriers should never hinder one's pursuit of personal and professional growth.
If you are in need of financial assistance to pursue additional education, we encourage you to apply for the Cup of Jo Scholarship. Together, we can make dreams come true and carry forward Jo's spirit of spreading joy and supporting others through education and mentorship.
Dream Big Darling is honored to offer this scholarship and remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting individuals in their educational pursuits. Apply today and let us help you take a step forward on your educational journey.
Remember, with the Cup of Jo Scholarship, we aim to provide not only financial assistance but also a symbol of inspiration and joy.
Disclaimer: Some limits may apply. Only available to women in the wine and spirits industry who have participated in previous Dream Big Darling events.
