It felt like we had all been friends for years. Everyone was super welcoming and I think having the group chat months in advance helped ease my nerves
Bloom In Brisbane
BLOOM IN BRISBANE
Four days. Three nights. Six women. One very gay little Brisbane weekend.
January 2027 | Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
A boutique retreat for later-in-life lesbian, queer and questioning women craving adventure, connection and genuine community.
Maybe you could book yourself a hotel in Brisbane, grab a Sundaylicious ticket and organise a weekend away for less.
But that’s not really what Bloom is.
Bloom is arriving on Friday knowing that for the next four days, you don’t have to go looking for queer community, you’re already inside it.
It’s welcome drinks and cheese on the balcony while six women slowly stop feeling like strangers.
It’s wandering into the kitchen in your pyjamas the next morning and continuing the conversation you started the night before.
It’s long brunches, soaking together at the bathhouse, getting dressed up for dinner, laughing until your face hurts, sharing stories and having those conversations that somehow go from completely ridiculous to “okay, so here’s my entire life story…”
And then it’s getting ready for Sundaylicious together, meeting some of our local Brissie girls at pre-drinks and walking into one of Brisbane’s big queer women’s events with your little crew already beside you.
That’s the part of Bloom you can’t book separately.
THE MOST INTIMATE BLOOM YET
This one is going to be really special because there are only…
SIX SPOTS.
Yep. Six.
No giant tour group. No disappearing into a crowd. No trying to remember the names of 35 lesbians by Saturday morning
Just me and six women sharing a beautiful home and four days together in my hometown.
Whether you’ve been out for years, you’re newly out, you’re still figuring things out, you’ve just survived your first lesbian heartbreak, you’re single, partnered, divorced, still married or somewhere in the messy middle…
You’re welcome here.
There is no point you need to have reached in your journey before you’re allowed to Bloom.
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WHERE WE’RE STAYING
Our home for the weekend is an enormous converted warehouse right in the heart of Fortitude Valley, one of Brisbane’s most vibrant inner-city neighbourhoods.
I wanted somewhere that gave us room to actually be together.
Not just somewhere to sleep between activities.
A home where we can sit around with wine and cheese, have slow mornings, get ready together, share meals, curl up for chats and experience those little in-between moments that often become my favourite parts of Bloom.
Think grown-up queer sleepover… except with much better food.
WHAT OUR WEEKEND LOOKS LIKE
I don’t want every minute of Bloom scheduled within an inch of its life.
There’ll be beautiful things planned, but there’ll also be space to breathe, chat, rest and simply enjoy being together.
Expect things like:
Welcome drinks + cheese platters on the balcony
A beautiful private chef dinner at our house
Long brunch
A two-hour bathhouse experience
Morning river walks
Sundaylicious pre-drinks with local Brisbane women
Sundaylicious together
Your Bloom goodie bag valued at $200
Plenty of downtime, chats, laughs and connection in between
And yes, there will almost certainly be an unreasonable amount of queer yapping.
SUNDAYLICIOUS
For some of you, this might be the part that makes your stomach do a tiny nervous flip.
Maybe you’ve never been to a big queer women’s event before.
Maybe you’ve wanted to go to something like Sundaylicious but the idea of walking in alone has always stopped you.
That’s exactly why I love including it.
We’ll get ready together at the house, head to our Bloom pre-drinks, meet some of the local Brissie women joining us, and then head into Sundaylicious together.
You won’t have to stand outside wondering whether you look gay enough, whether everyone already knows each other or who the hell you’re supposed to talk to.
You already have people to walk in with
A LETTER FROM PETRIA

There’s something particularly special about getting to host a Bloom here.
Brisbane is my home.
So instead of taking you somewhere I’m discovering alongside you, I get to invite you into my little corner of the world and share some of the things I genuinely love about living here.
But more than anything, I want this weekend to feel like somewhere you can arrive and just… exhale.
You don’t have to have your sexuality figured out.
You don’t need an impressive coming-out story.
You don’t have to be confident enough to walk into Sundaylicious alone.
And you definitely don’t need to already know someone.
Just come as you are.
We’ll take care of the rest together.
Six women. Four days. One beautiful Brisbane house. And a little queer community already waiting for you when you arrive.
Come Bloom with me in Brisbane.
Petria x

IS THIS RETREAT FOR YOU
❤️Questioning or newly out
❤️You’re craving genuine friendships
❤️You’re travelling solo
❤️ Wanting community
❤️You’re ready to prioritise yourself
❤️Wanting adventure
❤️You want to experience Pride with safe people
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Your Bloom in Brisbane experience includes:
4 days / 3 nights accommodation in our private Fortitude Valley warehouse
Two-hour bathhouse experience
Private chef dinner
Sundaylicious ticket
Bloom Sundaylicious pre-drinks
Welcome drinks + cheese/grazing platters
Brunch + yummy snacks for the house
Bloom goodie bag valued at $200
Private Bloom Brisbane group chat
Pre-retreat connection with the women joining you
A fully hosted four-day Bloom experience
And one of only six places in our smallest Bloom yet
Transport to and from Brisbane and any meals, drinks or personal expenses not specifically listed above are not included.
MEET YOUR HOST
Hi, I’m Petria.
A few years ago, I came out later in life after spending years trying to make sense of feelings I couldn’t quite explain. Like so many women in this community, I’d built a beautiful life on the outside, but something inside me knew there was more truth waiting to be discovered.
What I didn’t expect was how lonely that journey could feel.
I remember searching for women who understood. Women who’d been married. Women with children. Women who were questioning, starting over, or simply looking for genuine friendships with people who just got it.
When I couldn’t find the community I was searching for, I decided to create it.
Today, I’m the founder of The Late Blooming Lounge, an online community connecting more than 47,000 women on Instagram and 10,000 women in our Facebook community. Through stories, resources, retreats and honest conversations, my goal has always been simple: to help women feel less alone.
Bloom Retreats grew from that same vision.
These retreats aren’t about being the perfect host or having all the answers. They’re about creating a space where women can exhale, be completely themselves, and experience the kind of connection that often changes the way they see their lives.
Nothing brings me more joy than watching strangers arrive with nervous smiles and leave as lifelong friends.
If you’ve been wondering whether this is your sign to finally do something for yourself… I’d love to welcome you into Bloom.
I can’t wait to meet you.
Petria x
My hope is that one day you’ll look back at this retreat and realise it wasn’t just a holiday, it was the week everything started to change
BUT I DON’T KNOW ANYONE
GOOD!
You absolutely do not need to bring someone with you.
Most women who come to Bloom arrive without knowing the other women beforehand.
That’s why our connection starts before Brisbane.
Once you book, you’ll be added to our private Bloom Brisbane group chat so you can introduce yourself, start chatting and get to know the other women.
By the time January arrives, you won’t be walking into a house full of complete strangers.
And with only six women, there’s nowhere for me to lose you anyway
WHO IS BLOOM FOR
Maybe you’ve never really had queer female friendships.
Maybe you came out later in life and still feel like everyone else somehow received the lesbian instruction manual that never arrived in your letterbox.
Maybe you’re still married to a man.
Maybe you’ve never kissed a woman.
Maybe you’ve been out for twenty years.
Maybe you’re rebuilding after heartbreak.
Maybe you’re a mum who would simply like four days where nobody asks you where their shoes are.
There isn’t a particular kind of woman you need to be to belong here.
Bloom was created for women who want connection, queer community, adventure and the chance to experience life alongside women who understand something about the road that brought them here.
Testimonials
My favourite part was the connections I made with ladies who are traveling a similar journey to me and the dorm conversations, laughter and tears.
The most valuable thing to me was being around others who are going through/have been through the same things as me and understand. Especially with me not having any queer community where I live
My favourite part of the trip was the moments of tenderness between us. There was so much love. I don’t think I expected quite how much love there’d be.
You’ll leave with a bunch of new besties around the globe, and a beautiful community of people who “get it”.
It was worth getting out of my comfort zone for
It was just magic, so much connection, celebration and genuine warmth… it gave me space to really appreciate how far I’ve come in my journey and to celebrate me.
Even if you arrive feeling a bit nervous, come exactly as you are, you won’t stay that way for long because the group is incredibly welcoming and there’s such a beautiful sense of community
The people were so amazing, I was able to be ___ without all the other tags (mom, spouse, carer etc). I grew so much in such a little time.
Mardi Gras was more than a party weekend. It surprised me at just how powerful it ended up being. The weekend became an affirmation that I am on the right path to truly loving & healing my queer self.
The most valuable part was just being with other beautiful women who were on the same journey and at similar stages. It was so validating and I felt so seen and accepted.
What changed once home? After lots conversations around coming out and safety, I have been able to come out to 4 more friends, so I'm on a roll.
It was validating and so unique. I felt honoured to have shared space with other women and it was beautiful to party but also just have coffee, go for walks and talk with such amazing women.
All the S's - I felt supported, I felt deep sisterhood, I felt shy and sexy and also totally smitten on the sapphic dancefloor at Sundaylicious..
The most valuable part of this experience was the solidarity and sisterhood across Australia, I felt so seen, and understood.
An unforgettable weekend…surrounded by incredible women who started as strangers but quickly felt like friends, sharing laughter, deep conversations, and meaningful connections
Sharing the dorm made the weekend feel like one big slumber party, filled with late-night chats and meaningful conversations with people I probably never would have connected with otherwise.
10/10 Life Changing 🌈
YOUR INVESTMENT
EARLY BLOOM $1,999 AUD
Only 2 spots available
Once those first two places are gone:
STANDARD BLOOM $2,199 AUD
Remaining 4 spots
Payment options will be available at checkout.
There are only six places in total and I won’t be increasing the group size once they’re gone.
FAQs
- Can I come on my own?
Absolutely. In fact, most women do.
One of the biggest worries we hear is, “What if everyone already knows each other?” The answer is, they don’t. Most women arrive on their own, and that’s one of the things that makes Bloom so special.
By the end of the retreat, it’s hard to remember who arrived together and who didn’t. The friendships that form here are truly something special.
- How old are the women?
Our community is incredibly diverse, but most women are between 30 and 65 years old.
Some are newly out, some have been out for years, some are married to men, some are divorced, and some are simply looking for genuine friendships within the LGBTQ+ community.
Everyone’s story is different, and that’s exactly what makes Bloom so beautiful.
- Can I share a room?
Yes! Shared rooms are included in the retreat price and are a wonderful way to get to know someone.
If you’d prefer your own space, solo room upgrades may be available on selected retreats for an additional cost.
- What if I’m newly out?
Then you’ll fit right in.
Many women join Bloom during this exact season of life. Some have only recently come out, while others are taking their very first step into the LGBTQ+ community.
There’s no expectation that you have it all figured out. Just come exactly as you are.
- What if I am still questioning?
You’re so welcome here.
You don’t need a label to belong at Bloom. Many women join because they’re exploring their identity, looking for connection, or simply wanting to spend time with people who understand what they’re going through.
There is no pressure, no judgement and no expectation. Just a warm, welcoming community.
- How fit do I need to be?
Each retreat is a little different, and we’ll always outline the activity level on the retreat page.
Most of our retreats are suitable for women with a moderate level of fitness. There’ll always be plenty of opportunities to rest, and participation in activities is always your choice.
If you have any concerns, just reach out before booking. I’m always happy to chat.
- Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all Bloom Retreats.
We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as you’ve booked your place. It should cover things like cancellations, medical expenses, lost luggage and any activities included in your retreat.
- Do you offer payment plans?
Yes!
I know investing in yourself is a big decision, so Afterpay payment plans are available to help spread the cost over time.
- What is your refund policy?
Your 25% deposit is non-refundable, as it secures your place and allows us to begin confirming accommodation and suppliers.
If your plans change, our full Refund & Cancellation Policy can be found further down this page. We always encourage guests to take out travel insurance for extra peace of mind.
- Are airport transfers included?
This depends on the retreat.
Some retreats include airport transfers, while others ask guests to make their own way to the accommodation. The inclusions for each retreat are clearly listed on the retreat page.
If you’re unsure, just ask!
- How do you match roommates?
This is honestly one of my favourite parts.
Before the retreat, you’ll complete a short questionnaire where I’ll ask about things like your sleep habits, whether you’re an early riser, and anything else you’d like me to know.
I personally match roommates with a lot of care, and I’ve been amazed at how many lifelong friendships have started simply by sharing a room.
- Can I come from overseas?
Absolutely!
Women join Bloom from all over Australia and around the world. Whether you’re travelling interstate or internationally, we’ll make sure you have all the information you need before you arrive.
Many women don’t know a single person before the retreat begins, and that’s exactly why Bloom exists.
- I have another question…
I’d love to help.
Just send me an email or a message on Instagram, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. No question is too small, if you’re wondering about something, chances are someone else is too.
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YOU BELONG HERE
Whether you’re travelling alone for the first time, looking for lifelong friendships, or simply craving sometime where you can be completely yourself…
There’s a place for you here.
I’d love to welcome you to Bloom.
Petria x
Terms & Conditions
- Booking & Payment
To secure your place on a Bloom Retreat, payment must be made at the time of booking.
Guests may choose one of the following payment options:
Pay in Full at the time of booking, or
Afterpay (subject to Afterpay approval and terms).
Prices are in AUD
Prices may change without notice until a booking is confirmed
Your booking is confirmed once payment has been successfully processed.
As places are strictly limited, no bookings will be held without payment.
- Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all Bloom Retreats.
Your policy must provide adequate cover for:
Medical expenses
Emergency evacuation
Trip cancellation and interruption
Personal belongings
Adventure activities included within your chosen retreat (where applicable)
Proof of your travel insurance policy must be emailed to:
hello@createfreedomwithpetria.com no later than 60 days prior to the retreat departure date.
If proof of insurance has not been received by this date, Bloom Retreats reserves the right to cancel your booking. Standard cancellation terms will apply.
- Photography & Videography
One of the beautiful parts of Bloom Retreats is capturing the joy, connection and memories created throughout each experience.
Photos and videos may be taken during the retreat by Petria, members of the Bloom team and occasionally by professional photographers or videographers.
These images and videos may be used across:
Social media
Website
Email newsletters
Promotional materials
Future retreat marketing
Other Bloom Retreat communications
By attending a Bloom Retreat, you acknowledge that you may appear in photographs or videos captured during the retreat.
If you would prefer not to be identified in any published content, please email:
hello@createfreedomwithpetria.com before the retreat begins so we can do our very best to respect your wishes. While we cannot guarantee you will never appear in group photos or videos, we will make every reasonable effort not to identify you in any published material.
Bloom Retreats are built around storytelling, celebrating queer joy and inspiring more women to choose themselves. Sharing moments from our retreats helps future attendees see what’s possible and allows our community to continue growing.
- Cancellation & Refunds
Your 25% deposit is non-refundable.
If you cancel your booking:
More than 120 days before departure
Payments made (excluding your deposit) will be refunded.
90–119 days before departure
50% of payments made (excluding your deposit) will be refunded.
Less than 90 days before departure
No refunds are available.
If your place can be filled from the waitlist, Bloom Retreats may, at its discretion, refund payments made less:
the non-refundable deposit
any unrecoverable costs
a $250 administration fee.
- Flights & Transport
Guests are responsible for:
Booking their own flights.
Ensuring they arrive within the specified arrival window.
Any additional transfers outside those included.
Bloom Retreats is not responsible for missed transfers due to delayed flights.
- Passport, Visa & Entry Requirements
Guests are responsible for ensuring they have:
A valid passport.
Any required visas.
Vaccinations or government entry requirements.
- Health & Fitness
Guests acknowledge they are physically capable of participating.
For adventure retreats:
Read the activity level.
Speak with a doctor if unsure.
Inform Bloom of injuries or medical conditions before departure.
- Respectful Community
Bloom Retreats is built on kindness, inclusion and respect.
By attending, you agree to:
treat everyone with kindness
respect different identities and experiences
maintain confidentiality within the group
contribute to creating a safe environment.
Bullying, harassment, discrimination or aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated.
Bloom Retreats reserves the right to remove a participant whose behaviour places others at risk or significantly impacts the group experience.
No refund will be provided in these circumstances.
- Changes to Itinerary
While every effort is made to deliver the advertised itinerary, Bloom Retreats reserves the right to make reasonable changes due to:
weather
local conditions
supplier availability
safety
unforeseen circumstances.
Where possible, suitable alternatives will be provided.
- Retreat Cancellation
In the unlikely event that Bloom Retreats cancels a retreat, participants will receive either:
a full refund of monies paid to Bloom Retreats, or
the option to transfer their booking to another Bloom Retreat.
Bloom Retreats is not responsible for any personal travel expenses incurred, including flights or accommodation booked independently.
- Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Bloom Retreats is not liable for:
injury
illness
loss
theft
property damage
delays
missed flights
natural disasters
government travel restrictions
supplier failures
circumstances beyond our reasonable control.
- Force Majeure
Bloom Retreats is not responsible for cancellations, delays or changes resulting from events beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to:
natural disasters
pandemics
government restrictions
civil unrest
strikes
severe weather
airline disruptions.
- A Final Note
Bloom Retreats exists to create meaningful experiences, genuine connection and lifelong friendships. We ask every participant to arrive with an open heart, respect for others and a willingness to contribute to the warm, inclusive community that makes Bloom so special.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
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