wkndr - The Feels

Together and separately, we believe honesty is the most direct path to better dating dynamics.

One of us – Shaun – has been talking about and advising ppl on love for over 10 years. The other – Allie – has been studying dating + relating for the better part of 5 years, and has hosted thousands of singles via a live event called, “the feels”

We're coming together to co-lead a weekend that will

Help you better understand the current modern dating landscape + how we arrived into this moment;

Guide you into being more connected to your own inner systems of knowing - thoughts, emotions, body, spiritual attunement;

Give you real-life tools for better meets + better dates + more vulnerable connects;

Send you out on a date w a fellow participant to practice new tools in real time;

Drop you into embodied connection w your fellow participants, to imprint into your body what safe connection feels like;

Leave you with a crew of ppl who feel like your people.

Some more reasons why you should join us

Our container = AKERA, a stunning 123 acre upstate retreat space nestled in the Catskills;

We’ll be enjoying chef-made, locally-sourced, farm-to-table meals;

There’s onsite sauna + cold plunge;

Morning yoga will be available;

+ because we all deserve a chance to experience what Valentine’s Day represents: feeling loved + cared for. Come let us take care of you.

Tuition + Room Selection

*early bird pricing, subject to change

Solo Room

$1950

Shared Room

$1450

Commuter Pass

$750

About Your Fearless Leaders

Allie Hoffman

Allie Hoffman, MArts, Psychology

Allie Hoffman, MArts, Psychology For nearly 20 years, Allie's work has focused on community building. Media she has produced or directed has been viewed more than 150 million times, changed laws in 33 different states, and was featured in publications like the New York Times, Guardian, Teen Vogue on a regular basis. Her past clients include Alicia Keys, Charlize Theron, Pharrell Williams, Caitlyn Jenner, and Jose Andres, and more. In 2021, Allie transitioned from building digital --> IRL movements, and began focusing exclusively at the intersection of experience design, community and inner work. Her flagship offering, 'the feels', was launched in Aug 2022 and since then has hosted thousands of people across 4 cities. Allie holds an undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Southern California and a Masters Degree in Spiritual Psychology from Columbia University.

Shaun

Shaun Galanos is a thought leader, writer, and curator of big ideas. He’s deeply invested in helping people lean into the questions that actually matter — the ones about love, identity, purpose, and how to live more aligned lives. Shaun brings vulnerability, curiosity, and a fierce honesty to his work, and he’s passionate about building community around inner growth and authentic connection. Whether he’s hosting experiences, writing essays, guiding reflections, or just asking the right uncomfortable questions, he’s all about making the journey both honest and beautifully messy.

FAQ

What is WKNDR?

WKNDR is a 3-night retreat designed to help singles reset their approach to connection. You’ll spend the weekend doing guided workshops, somatic practices, and mindfulness exercises — all designed to help you slow down and connect more intentionally in a beautiful, intentional retreat setting.

Who is this retreat for?

For single adults looking to step away from the fatigue of dating apps and cultivate genuine connections with like-minded individuals in a supportive, judgment-free environment.

What's included in the retreat?

Everything you need for the weekend: lodging, meals, facilitated workshops and activities, mindfulness practices, somatic exercises, and plenty of free time to explore and connect organically. Oh, and there’s yoga and a sauna (bring a bathing suit, or not.)

What should I expect from the experience?

A mix of structured connection exercises (deep questions, positive reflections, meditation) and open time to relax, reflect, and meet people naturally. Expect honest conversations, calm moments, and a weekend that feels different from anything you’ve tried before.

What's the group size?

We keep it intimate — around 25 to 30 people. Small enough to feel connected, big enough to feel full of possibility.

Where is AKERA?

AKERA is located at 2299 Ulster Heights Rd, Woodbourne, NY 12788 in the Catskill Mountains, 100 miles from NYC.

Learn more about the property, accommodations, and what awaits you at AKERA here.

How do we get to AKERA?

DRIVING: Car parking is complimentary to all visitors. Carpool is suggested whenever possible!

From Albany and points North:
– Take the New York State Thruway (1-87) South towards New York City
– Take Exit 16, Harriman/US-6 (see below)

From New York City and Points South:
– Take the New York State Thruway (1-87) North/West to Exit 16, Harriman/US-6. After toll, merge slightly right onto NY-17 West (towards US-6/Harriman) OR Take Palisades Parkway to Exit 18 (US-6) and merge onto NY-17 West
– Travel approximately 30 miles on NY-17 West to Wurtsboro
– Take the US-209 ramp to Wurtsboro/Ellenville
– Turn right to continue onto US-209 North just over 13 miles to Canal St in Ellenville
– Turn left onto Canal St. In a 0.4 mile turn right onto Cape rd.
– Continue onto Cape Rd, which becomes Ulster Heights Rd. for just over 9 miles.
– You will see a sign for AKERA on your left-hand side at 2299 Ulster Heights Rd
– Proceed up the driveway to enter AKERA MORE INFO

More information on how to get to AKERA via plane, bus, or train can be found here.

Is this a dating event?

Kind of, but not like the ones you’re used to. WKNDR is about cultivating authentic connection with yourself and others. We’re making sure there’s an even mix of men and women, everyone attending will be single, and it’s on Valentine’s Day. So, while we can’t promise fireworks, we are intentionally creating a safe and exciting container for you to explore connecting with others—romantically or platonically.

What should I bring?

Comfortable clothing for movement and outdoor activities, warm layers and winter clothing (snow angels will be made), an open mind (and heart), and a journal to reflect in writing.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely! Most people do — that’s sort of the point! We’re inviting you to do something different this Valentine’s Day, and we know it takes courage to trust us in this experience. We’re here to hold you and offer you something a little more exciting.

What's the refund policy?

If you enter into a relationship between now and V day and a singles’ weekend no longer feels right for you, we can work with you on finding a replacement from our waitlist. Otherwise, we’re not able to offer refunds, but we’re confident you’re not going to want to miss this retreat. We’re putting a lot of love, care, and thought into curating a correcting love experience for you.

“…[the wkndr 2025] it will probably go down as one of the most memorable weekends of my life.

Allie put together an amazing curriculum centered around dating/relationship with yourself, dating/your relationship with others, and your relationship with community.

I won’t dive into specifics as I’d recommend going in as blind as you can plus not wanting to dive into others’ stories here. But if you’re single, want to exam your relationship with relationships and really dive deep with a supportive community all doing the same, it’s totally worth it…”

Past Participant, NYC

“I’m so grateful for the exercises, rituals and experiences that led to such deep sharing. They opened my heart and helped me connect in ways I didn’t expect. Thank you for creating such a powerful, loving space. I left feeling more alive, grounded, and connected than I’ve felt in a long time.”

Past Participant

“Love Camp is a sacred, special and amazing experience! Let your heart open and get to know yourself on a deeper level and have a playful, fun experience while doing it. I loved it and will do it again next year!”