The State of Women Institute

"Thanks to the retreat, I found my group of trusted people and a space I can rely on. Although it was daunting at first to spend an entire week with strangers I only had one Zoom call with, throughout the week we got closer and closer to one another, started forming real relationships, which led to amazing discussions about work, life, and everything in between. I got to witness people breaking out of their comfort zones, realizing their worth, and finding clarity with the help of everyone in the group, and that's something I wish I can experience over and over again! And now, I'm grateful to have a group of people I can go to for help and know that we care for and love one another as friends."

Haeun Park, Made at Dawn

"Élanoura Global Founder's Retreat is an experience you don't want to miss. You are surrounded by the beautiful Moroccan desert, colorful fabrics and gold rimmed dishes everywhere but most importantly you are surrounded by savvy women business owners. Supporting each other by elevating our skills and making a difference in each others lives. Not only did I come back refreshed and renewed I came back with a full heart of gratitude. I made friends for life and am ready to elevate my business to the next level! Thank you Erika for creating such a beautiful foundation."

Elizabeth Hall, Eeze Natural Health

“If you own a brand or are in charge of branding for a particular company, run don’t walk to Erika Brechtel. Nobody translates the look and feel of a brand digitally, better or more beautifully than she can."

Marisa Perry, Marisa Perry Atelier NYC

"I went on this trip thinking it was a business trip with the hope of maybe making at least one friend, but what actually ended up happening was I met 9 lifelong friends that I happened to discuss business with. I will be forever grateful to Erika as she curated a group that included such diverse women whom all I could relate to in one way or another and I look forward to watching them all grow and succeed not only in business but their personal life. Anyone would be crazy NOT to attend something Erika puts together."

Sheena Keo, SMK & CO.

"This retreat was truly life changing. I felt my travel to be very purposeful since I was able to contribute to something much bigger than myself. I am so grateful to Erika for putting all of this together, with every detail intricately woven into the beauty of the retreat. It doesn’t matter what stage of business you are in, every woman leader needs a space like this. To feel empowered, comfortable, and unapologetic around other women that are free to do the same. The lifelong friendships I have made here will be taken with me forever. My mind is blown as I try to absorb every piece of valuable experience I got in such a short time. My body, mind, and soul are happy. Thank you Erika 💕"

Brianna Diaz, BriGainz

"The Brand Building Foundations course turned my business from HP to Apple. Not only did I gain clarity on my brand and purpose, I learned how I can visually and emotionally incorporate my purpose in my brand. Everything I had in my heart, I was able to find a place to showcase it through my entire brand. This was truly more than just a course — it was a guided experience that made me feel like I had a business partner going through this with me together. And that sense of support is something you cannot compare to anything else. Thank you so much Erika for creating such an amazing experience!"

Hae P., San Jose CA

"Erika works truly like a partner in the process of strategically thinking about a brand and its vision. When I work with her I feel like I am in the presence of a caring professor in marketing walking me through every step. I am always blown away by her wisdom, expertise, and genuine care for me to succeed as a woman business leader which is why I do sincerely see her as a partner. She is also so professional and reliable, which goes a long way for me! Erika is my go-to person for every project or idea I have had since 2009, there's no one like her!"

Jennet Chow, Jellypop Shoes & Evolution Design Lab

"In the past six months, I have invested in countless online classes and programs. The Branding Masterclass was quite simply the most effective experience I have had – and that is exactly why: because it is an experience. This class is not simply a tool; it reaches far beyond strategies and tactics (which of course are phenomenal with an expert leader like Erika). Erika, I can’t thank you enough for the energy and wisdom you are sharing – you are literally changing lives."

Maris D., Columbus OH