Essence Elevated 2026 is the space where Black women reclaim their focus, refill their souls, and rise into the next version of themselves. It’s a curated retreat for women ready to stop surviving and start self-mastering — with powerful sessions led by our inspirational Architects, soul-level sisterhood, and real strategies you can actually use long after the weekend is over.
Let’s unlock your blueprint to forever.

4:00 PM | Guest Arrival & Cottage Check-In
Guests arrive, settle into their cottages, and exhale.
No rushing. No performing. Just arrival.
5:00 – 6:00 PM | Welcome Networking Hour
Light bites. Intentional conversation.
This is where introductions feel natural and community starts forming—before the work begins.
6:30 – 8:30 PM | VIP Dinner Experience
SOLD OUT
An elevated, chef-curated dinner designed to nourish more than your appetite.
Expect intentional seating, meaningful dialogue, and the kind of atmosphere that lets your shoulders drop.
This experience is exclusive to VIP ticket holders.
9:30 PM | Fireside Chat: Rest as Strategy
An intimate late-evening conversation with Leah Owens and Dr Christine Jean.
This is where rest is reframed—not as a reward, but as a requirement for sustainable leadership, influence, and legacy.
7:00 – 9:30 AM | Morning Activities & Breakfast
Cottage Guests Only
A slow, grounding start to the day with guided morning activities and breakfast designed to regulate the body and prepare the mind.
This is not hustle energy—this is alignment before action.
9:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Essence Elevated Main Experience
A full day of immersive sessions, workshops, and conversations centered on Essence, Influence, and Legacy.
Expect thought leadership, practical tools, and moments that challenge old narratives while creating new ones.
A chef-curated lunch is included.
6:00 – 10:00 PM | Legacy Dinner & Soft Life Soirée
SOLD OUT
An evening of elegance, celebration, and embodied legacy.
This semi-formal dinner experience honors rest, joy, beauty, and the fullness of Black womanhood—without explanation or apology.
Come ready to dine, connect, and step fully into the Soft Life you’re designing.
Sunrise | Centering & Reflection
Cottage Guests Only
A quiet, grounding moment to center the body and spirit as the sun rises.
This is about integration—pausing long enough to notice what has shifted and what is ready to be carried forward.
8:30 – 10:30 AM | Sisterhood Brunch & Vendors’ Market
A joyful, communal brunch paired with a curated market featuring women-owned brands and services.
Eat well. Shop intentionally. Connect freely.
This space is designed for celebration, exchange, and support—without pressure.
10:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Essence Elevated Closing Experience
The final gathering brings the weekend full circle.
Expect reflection, clarity, and practical next steps to help you move from inspiration to embodied action.
You won’t leave hyped—you’ll leave grounded, focused, and ready to reign in your real life.

Dr. Cher'Don Reynolds

Dr. Kameko McGuire

Dr. Christine Jean

Lane Edmonds

Tara Lewis

Marlayna Goosby

LaRhonda Lang

Niesia Garza

EJ Dickens

Adea Griffis

Nicole Dixon
“I attended several Essence Elevated events hosted by Leah Owens last year, and each experience was intentional, meaningful, and unlike anything I’ve ever attended. Her events are rooted in purpose and substance, creating an environment that challenges you to think deeply and truly work on yourself. One standout experience was Crown & Continuum: Blueprint to Forever, where she partnered with Queen of Flavor to create a unique, immersive experience. We worked through a guided worksheets while tasting thoughtfully prepared treats paired with each section, which made the experience both engaging and memorable. I highly recommend attending any event hosted by Leah Owens if you’re looking for growth, reflection, and a truly elevated experience.
”
-
“I left the event [Sun-kissed & Sovereign] with a renewed sense of purpose and a network of inspiring women who truly understand my journey.”
— Brianna M.
“Essence Engineered was practical and powerful. I’ve implemented so many tools from the Intensive into my daily life.”
— Keisha R.
There are 10 day passes available for Essence Elevated 2026. Take the first step toward your next level of growth and connection. Spaces are limited—reserve your place now and join a community of empowered women.
The event is open to all Black women, 18 and older, seeking personal growth, empowerment, and community.
Essence Elevated 2026 will be hosted at The Alice in Destin, Florida.
Please see the description of included access in the ticket tier of your choosing.
Full Refund – 60 Days Prior
Cancellations made 60 days or more before the event start date (March 6, 2026) are eligible for a full refund of the registration fee. No questions asked.
Partial Refund – Less Than 60 Days
Cancellations made fewer than 60 days before the event are eligible for a partial refund, minus a 25% service and processing fee.
This fee accounts for venue reservations, materials, speaker commitments, and administrative costs already incurred in preparation for your experience.
Non-Refundable Within 30 Days
Cancellations made within 30 days of the event are not eligible for a refund, as all final expenses, lodging assignments, and attendee materials will have been confirmed.
Transfer Option
If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your ticket to another woman up to 14 days before the event at no additional cost. Please contact us at [email protected] to provide the new attendee’s information.

Experience Essence Elevated 2026 in a beautiful, centrally located venue that fosters learning, connection, and inspiration. Enjoy modern amenities, easy access, and an environment curated for your empowerment journey.