Our Flagship Event:

<b>Business</b> Bourbon & Cigars

March 9 - 11, 2025

Charleston, South Carolina

INNOVATE AND ADAPT: LEADING THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS

Unlock the secrets to cultivating a culture of innovation and adaptability within your organization. Dive into discussions about pioneering industry trends, harnessing new technologies, and fostering creative problem-solving. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to connect with forward-thinking entrepreneurs and executives, challenge the status quo, and drive your organization toward unprecedented growth.

Immerse yourself in strategies for staying ahead of the curve and transforming challenges into opportunities for success.

Don’t miss this chance to be at the forefront of innovation—register today to secure your early bird discount and save $500 on your Business Bourbon & Cigars retreat experience. Elevate your leadership journey and set the stage for a future where adaptability and innovation lead the way.

$2,997
Per Person (Early Bird Special)
Register Now
Early Bird offer ends January 31, 2025

Key Benefits: What You Can Expect

Mastermind Sessions

Transformative gatherings that harness the collective wisdom and creativity of diverse individuals, offering a collaborative space to tackle challenges and propel personal and professional growth.

Panel Discussions

Expert voices converge, sharing their knowledge, insights, and perspectives to provide valuable, multifaceted insights into relevant topics and foster engaging dialogue.

Fun Excursions

Thoughtfully designed to infuse excitement and enjoyment into your experience, creating unforgettable moments that amplify both your personal connections and your appreciation for the event.

Networking Opportunities

The heartbeat of the event: cultivating genuine connections and meaningful relationships among attendees, empowering them to forge lasting alliances, and fueling their collective success.

Dining Experiences

From breakfast to lunch and dinner, every meal is accounted for. Paired with our open bar and curated bourbon tastings, it’s a culinary journey that serves as the backdrop for meaningful connections.

What Past Attendees Say

What brought you the most value:

97%
Networking Opportunities
93%
Mastermind Sessions

Would you recommend this event:

100%
Yes

How valuable was this event for you:

97%
Exceeded Expectations
92%
Forged Connections that Will Benefit My Business

This is the best conference I've ever been to. Where do the leaders go to grow themselves? That's right here!

April Simmons

This is by far THE BEST business conference.

Ed Roberts

Business Bourbon & Cigars is unlike anything I've participated in - take some of the brightest and most successful leaders masterminding today's biggest challenges, add fun excursions and an overall sense of camaraderie, and you end up with one amazing event! Now if we can just add white wine somewhere in the title, I'm in for life.

Laurie Halter

The best, brain storming, forward thinking, relationship building event!

Arnold Gacita

This event was 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Scott Joseph & Sandy Cerami!! Thank you both for everything you do for our industry!! 👊

Brian Kramer

Throughout my 30 plus years in business, I have never been to a conference like yours. It was amazing and so uplifting. I met some of the most amazing professionals in the business. Great job!

Chuck Kramer

If your intention is to go somewhere and make a significant impact on your business… this is it!. I've been in business for forty years and I've never seen an event with this much engagement and fun.

David Spisak

Hands down the BEST Mastermind event that I ever attended. This is a MUST ATTEND event for anyone wanting to become a better leader!

Michael Porro

An event like no other and a privilege to be apart of the Best Business Conference! Letting all walls down to learn, innovate, and bring it home to better our teams! We appreciate all the work you and your team put into making Business Bourbon and Cigars one of a kind for us! See you in September!!!

Natasha Fay Cox

The people in this room are probably as high caliber as I've seen at a conference.

Patrick Abad

The real work afterwards is when you take those people in your mastermind group and then make them lifelong 'speed dials' that help you through your challenges after you leave the conference. I can attest to meeting new friends and colleagues after this event that I have for life!

Squire Pettis

All in.....great event and not to be missed!

Tully Williams

This was a group of elite business leaders doing mastermind sessions with only one focus - how to innovate the customer experience to positively amaze the consumer. I watched Sandy P Cerami and Scott Joseph lead all of us in incredible discussion that brought out the creativity of everyone in the room. So grateful to have participated and most of all to have learned from a group of great people. And, yes the environment was incredible, the bourbon over the top and everyone said the cigars were great too!

David O’Brien

If there is a word to describe how I feel about being here, it would be INSPIRATION!

Hugh Palmer

Agenda & Schedule

Sunday 3.9.25

Arrival, Check-In, and Welcome Reception

  1. 3:00 pm
    Check-In at Hotel Bennett
  2. 6:00 pm
    Welcome Reception: An Evening of Connection and Culinary Delights

Monday 3.10.25

Leadership Retreat

  1. 7:00 am
    Morning Connections: Networking Breakfast Buffet
  2. 7:45 am
    Opening Conversations
  3. 8:00 am
    Driving Innovation and Resilience: Leading Through Technology and Strategic Transformation
  4. 8:45 am
    Mastermind 1: Harnessing Innovation & Building Resilient Teams
  5. 11:00 am
    Break
  6. 11:15 am
    Panel Discussion: Innovation & Building Resilient Teams
  7. 11:45 am
    Enhanced Networking Lunch 90-Minutes
  8. 1:15 pm
    Tax-Efficient Wealth Building: Unlocking Hidden Opportunities w/ Claudio Gambin
  9. 2:15 pm
    Avoiding the Commodity Trap: How to Differentiate Your Business from the Rest
  10. 3:00 pm
    Break
  11. 3:15 pm
    Leading the Future: Unlocking Innovation, Adaptability, and Strategic Growth
  12. 5:30 pm
    Enchanting Evening at the William Aiken House

Tuesday 3.11.25

Leadership Retreat

  1. 7:30 am
    Morning Connections: Networking Breakfast Buffet
  2. 8:15 am
    Opening Conversations
  3. 8:30 am
    Maximizing Business Growth and Value: Strategies for Scaling, Selling, and Securing Your Legacy w/ Marty Fahncke
  4. 9:15 am
    Mastermind 2: Unlocking Growth Through Strategic Collaboration
  5. 11:00 am
    Break
  6. 11:15 am
    Panel Discussion: Growth Through Strategic Collaboration - Amplified by David Spisak
  7. 12:00 pm
    Enhanced Networking Lunch 90-Minutes
  8. 1:30 pm
    Legal Pitfalls - Managing Lawsuits and Protecting Your Business
  9. 2:45 pm
    Beyond the Ultimate: A Culmination & Horizon
  10. 4:00 pm
    Historic City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt: A Charleston Adventure
  11. 5:30 pm
    Dinner at Victor’s Steak & Seafood: A Culinary Experience

Hosts & Moderators

  • Scott Joseph
    Scott Joseph
    Founder of Me Plus Ultra
  • Sandy Cerami
    Sandy Cerami
    Chief Solutionist and Leadership Consultant
  • Kasey Kohtala
    Kasey Kohtala
    Managing Partner of Me Plus Ultra
  • David Spisak
    David Spisak
    Founder & CEO of Disruptive Growth Solutions

Key Sessions

Mastermind Insights & Client-Centric Leadership

Elevating Strategic Growth and Innovation

David Spisak, a respected leader with decades of experience, will play an essential role at this year’s Business Bourbon & Cigars Leadership Retreat.

On Day 1, David will join John Garcia for a fireside chat, where the two will dive into strategies for innovation, adaptability, and leading organizations through periods of disruption. This conversation will set the tone for the event, providing valuable insights that challenge attendees to think beyond conventional approaches and embrace forward-thinking leadership.

Then, on Day 2, David will return to Mastermind #2: Client Centricity in Leadership – Building Enduring Client Bonds, where he will elevate the insights and action plans generated during the mastermind session. Drawing from his wealth of experience in building high-performance teams and transforming businesses, David will offer practical, actionable strategies to help attendees refine their client-centric approaches, enhance team alignment, and drive sustainable growth.

His ability to transform complex ideas into clear, executable plans ensures that everyone walks away with the tools they need to lead with a focus on building long-lasting client relationships. David’s expertise, honed from his roles as the Founder and former President/CEO of ReverseRisk, and his leadership at AutoNation, will provide attendees with a unique perspective on how to leverage client relationships for strategic growth.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leader who has successfully navigated business transformation and helped companies achieve record-breaking results.

Be ready to walk away with a concrete action plan for embedding client-centric leadership within your organization and ensuring long-term success.

Led By: David Spisak

MASTERMIND 1: HARNESSING INNOVATION AND BUILDING RESILIENT TEAMS

STRATEGIES FOR LEADING CHANGE AND ADAPTING TO MARKET SHIFTS

Elevate your leadership capabilities by diving into the essential practices of fostering innovation and adaptability within your organization. This mastermind session is designed to provide you with the tools and insights needed to lead effectively in a rapidly changing business landscape.

Discover how to cultivate a culture that embraces change and drives continuous improvement. Engage in dynamic discussions about innovative strategies for overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in a constantly evolving market. Learn from seasoned leaders and industry experts who have successfully navigated their own transformation journeys and built resilient teams capable of thriving amidst uncertainty.

Why Attend?

  • Cultivate Innovation: Explore methods to inspire creativity and encourage innovative thinking within your organization.
  • Adapt to Change: Learn how to build a culture that is agile and responsive to market shifts and emerging challenges.
  • Lead with Confidence: Gain practical insights and strategies for leading your team through change and driving sustainable growth.
  • Connect with Experts: Network with visionary leaders and peers who are committed to leading with adaptability and innovation.

This session will equip you with the strategies and mindset needed to foster a forward-thinking culture and lead your organization through periods of change and growth. Don’t miss the opportunity to refine your leadership skills and position your organization for long-term success in a dynamic business environment.

Led By: Brady Schmidt

Driving Innovation and Resilience

Leading Through Technology and Strategic Transformation

Sara Blackmer is a distinguished executive and strategist with extensive experience leading tech-focused companies in both defense and commercial markets. As Managing Member and Senior Partner at Solyco Capital, she is at the helm of driving operational excellence, strategic initiatives, and stakeholder relations across the firm’s Private Equity portfolio, with a particular focus on autonomous systems, energy, cybersecurity, and advanced technology.

In her upcoming session at the Business Bourbon & Cigars Leadership Retreat, Sara will discuss how leaders can strategically navigate and adapt to fast-evolving industries, focusing on the role of technology and innovation in maintaining a competitive edge.

Drawing from her rich background in executive business development, leadership, and corporate strategy, she will provide actionable insights on how to integrate cutting-edge technologies into business strategy and harness them to create sustained growth and resilience.

Sara’s expertise will also delve into the challenges of scaling innovative companies and how to foster a culture that thrives on transformation. Her experience from managing complex, high-stakes initiatives in both commercial and defense sectors positions her uniquely to speak on leadership, team-building, and decision-making in dynamic environments.

Attendees can expect to gain a roadmap for driving growth through innovative strategies, learning how to lead in high-tech fields, and building teams that are equipped to embrace and shape the future of business.

With her leadership insights, Sara will challenge attendees to rethink their approach to the intersection of technology and strategy, leaving them with actionable strategies to future-proof their businesses.

Led By: Sara Blackmer

Avoiding the Commodity Trap

How to Differentiate Your Business from the Rest

In a marketplace that constantly pushes businesses toward commoditization, standing out can feel like an impossible challenge.

In this fireside chat, Arnold Gacita – an expert in marketing, brand development, and relationship management – shares proven strategies for avoiding the commodity trap.

Learn how to transform your business from just another option on the shelf to a brand that commands loyalty, trust, and premium pricing.

Arnold will break down the importance of superior client support, including training, consulting, and continuous education, as the key differentiators that elevate businesses above the competition.

By examining real-world examples, Arnold will demonstrate how intentional relationship-building, rather than transactional sales, fosters long-term growth and success.

Whether you’re facing pressure to lower prices or struggling to maintain client loyalty, this session will provide actionable insights to help you reframe your approach and avoid the commoditized cycle.

If you’re ready to differentiate your business, create lasting value, and build deeper relationships with your clients, this fireside chat is a must-attend.

You’ll walk away with a clear roadmap for shifting your focus from products to people – and securing your place in the market as an indispensable partner.

Led By: Arnold Gacita

Tax-Efficient Wealth Building: Unlocking Hidden Opportunities

Maximize Your Wealth, Minimize Taxes: Expert Strategies for Business Leaders

Join financial expert Claudio Gambin for a comprehensive session on tax-efficient wealth building designed specifically for business leaders. Learn how to identify hidden opportunities within your financial planning to optimize wealth accumulation and minimize tax liabilities.

Whether you’re driving growth, planning for succession, or focused on securing your personal financial future, this session will provide actionable insights to enhance your financial strategy. Equip yourself with the knowledge to protect and expand your wealth while navigating the complexities of taxation.

Led By: Claudio Gambin

Leading the Future

Unlocking Innovation, Adaptability, and Strategic Growth

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to innovate and adapt is no longer optional – it’s essential for survival and growth.

Join industry titans, John Garcia and David Spisak, for an exclusive fireside chat that will challenge the way you think about leadership, strategic decision-making, and scaling your business in the face of disruption.

In this high-impact session, you’ll dive deep into actionable strategies for:

  • Building a culture of innovation: Learn how to inspire creative thinking and drive change in your organization without losing sight of your core values.
  • Adapting to market shifts: Gain insights on how to pivot your business model when external forces demand agility, and how to stay ahead of competitors.
  • Scaling with precision: Hear firsthand from leaders who’ve successfully scaled organizations, as they share the keys to sustaining growth, boosting profitability, and maintaining customer loyalty even during periods of rapid change.

Whether you’re a startup entrepreneur or a seasoned executive, this session will arm you with the tools and mindset to lead your company to unprecedented heights.

Walk away with tangible, real-world strategies that you can apply immediately, empowering you to not just survive the future – but lead it.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from two of the brightest minds in business innovation and growth.

Secure your spot now and prepare to transform your leadership approach for the future!

Led By: John Garcia

Maximizing Business Growth and Value

Strategies for Scaling, Selling, and Securing Your Legacy

In this session, seasoned marketer and Merger & Acquisition expert Marty M. Fahncke will reveal the powerful strategies that can help you scale your business, enhance its value, and prepare for an exit—whether through acquisition or a future sale.

Drawing on over 30 years of experience in growing and selling businesses, Marty will challenge conventional wisdom and provide actionable insights that can transform your approach to growth and succession planning.

You’ll learn how to strategically grow your business without relying on the traditional method of selling more “stuff.” Marty will walk you through how acquiring competitors or complementary businesses can drive your revenue, reduce risk, and increase profitability.

He’ll also explore the key factors to consider when deciding whether to sell your business, how to maximize its value, and why you should be planning your exit long before you’re ready to leave.

But growth and exit planning aren’t the only considerations. Marty will share why business owners need to build businesses that don’t rely on them to succeed. You’ll hear why getting out of the day-to-day operations will actually increase your business value—and provide more freedom to explore new ventures, step back from the grind, and ultimately live life on your own terms.

If you’re a business owner looking to scale, sell, or secure your legacy, this session is a must-attend. Marty’s insights will provide you with a clear roadmap for making your business more valuable, preparing for your future exit, and ensuring that your business thrives long after you’ve stepped away.

Key Takeaways:

  • Scaling with Acquisitions: Learn how to use strategic acquisitions to grow your business without the typical cost of new hires and marketing.
  • Strategic Timing for Selling: Understand when to sell your business to get the maximum value and how to start preparing for it today.
  • Building for the Future: Discover how to make your business less reliant on you and more attractive to future buyers or successors.

This session will equip you with the essential strategies to take your business to the next level and beyond. Don’t miss out on learning from one of the top experts in the field.

Led By: Marty M. Fahncke

MASTERMIND 2: UNLOCKING GROWTH THROUGH STRATEGIC COLLABORATION

MASTER THE BLUEPRINT FOR BUILDING WINNING ALLIANCES

Step into the world of high-impact strategic alliances with our groundbreaking session, “Building Strategic Alliances for Growth,” and discover how to unlock the full potential of collaborative relationships. This session will guide you through the art and science of forging partnerships that not only fuel innovation but also create exponential growth for your business.

Why You Must Attend:

  • Master the Art of Partner Selection: Strategically identify and engage with partners who possess complementary strengths and can accelerate your business objectives. Uncover the secrets to finding those rare, high-value alliances that can transform your business landscape.
  • Negotiate with Precision and Power: Delve into the techniques of effective negotiation to craft agreements that are not just beneficial, but revolutionary. Understand how to structure deals that provide extraordinary value and set the stage for sustained mutual success.
  • Capitalize on Partner Strengths: Uncover how to leverage the unique assets and capabilities of your strategic alliances to amplify your business impact. Integrate their strengths into your growth strategy seamlessly and powerfully.
  • Expand Your Market Reach: Explore proven methods to use strategic alliances as a springboard to penetrate new markets and demographics. Discover how to align with partners who can open new doors and deliver access to untapped revenue streams.
  • Implement Strategies Instantly: Leave equipped with actionable strategies and real-world tactics that you can deploy immediately. Discover practical tools and insights to turn these concepts into tangible results from day one.

This session is your gateway to mastering the craft of strategic alliances. Embrace the opportunity to learn from some of the best in business and take home actionable strategies that will elevate your partnership game and propel your growth trajectory. 

Don’t miss out on this chance to harness the power of strategic alliances to achieve unparalleled success.

Led By: John Traver

Legal Pitfalls

Managing Lawsuits and Protecting Your Business

Lawsuits can arise unexpectedly, and no matter what industry you’re in, they can cost you valuable time, money, and resources. The worst part? If the media gets involved, the damage to your reputation and brand can be irreparable.

In this session, you’ll learn how to protect yourself and your business from costly legal disputes and minimize the long-term impact of any legal challenges.

Led by Tom Kline, a renowned expert in risk management and legal compliance, this session offers proven strategies to manage lawsuits efficiently, with the least disruption to your business. With over thirty years of experience in consulting, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance, Tom has helped countless organizations navigate high-stakes legal challenges and safeguard their brands. His insights have been featured in national publications like the Wall Street Journal and Automotive News, and he has provided expert testimony in numerous legal cases.

In this session, you’ll dive into practical, real-world strategies for managing lawsuits from start to finish, learning how to negotiate settlements quickly and discreetly, handle the media to protect your brand, and avoid the common pitfalls that lead to prolonged legal battles.

Key Takeaways:

  • Settlement Secrets: Learn how to negotiate settlements efficiently, saving time and money, and avoiding unnecessary disruption to your business.
  • Handling the Media: Discover how to manage media coverage during a lawsuit to safeguard your brand’s image and reputation.
  • Immediate Actions: Understand the critical steps you need to take right away to protect your business when faced with a lawsuit.
  • Co-Defendants: Learn how to manage lawsuits involving multiple defendants and why it’s crucial for your case.
  • Gaining Leverage: Discover strategies to strengthen your position and gain the upper hand in legal disputes.
  • Root Cause Prevention: Learn how to address the underlying issues causing lawsuits and prevent future legal challenges.

Whether you’re facing a current lawsuit or simply want to be prepared for the unexpected, this session is a must-attend for any business owner. Tom Kline’s proven techniques will arm you with the tools to minimize damage, protect your reputation, and move forward with confidence.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from one of the leading experts in business risk management. Register now for the Business Bourbon & Cigars 9 Leadership Retreat and gain the insights you need to navigate any legal challenge with ease.

Led By: Tom Kline

Beyond the Ultimate

A Culmination & Horizon

Join Kasey Kohtala for a powerful session that will explore both the insights gathered during this leadership retreat and the actionable strategies you’ll take back to level up your business.

Kasey will guide you through the process of crystallizing the most impactful breakthroughs from our time together, ensuring you’re prepared to implement them effectively in your organization.

But this session doesn’t just look back – it’s a forward-focused discussion about what lies ahead for Me Plus Ultra. Kasey will unveil exciting new directions for the group, with an emphasis on continuously delivering unmatched value for our members. This is more than a recap – it’s a blueprint for the future of your business, fueled by the collaborative energy and cutting-edge strategies fostered throughout the retreat.

Whether you’re ready to scale, innovate, or optimize, this session will equip you with the tools, mindset, and direction to lead your business into its next era of success. Get ready to bring clarity, precision, and bold action into your business transformation.

Led By: Kasey Kohtala

Networking Opportunities

Welcome Reception

An Evening of Connection and Culinary Delights

Begin your Business Bourbon & Cigars journey at our Welcome Reception featuring Heavy Hors d’oeuvres & Cocktails. This is more than just an icebreaker—it’s your initial foray into a network of high-caliber entrepreneurs. Enjoy well-crafted appetizers and cocktails on the Hotel Bennett rooftop as you make those crucial first connections.

No aimless mingling here; every interaction sets the stage for the transformative mastermind sessions to follow. Consider this your first opportunity to identify potential allies in the business challenges you’re about to tackle. This isn’t just a reception—it’s the starting line. Don’t miss it.

Morning Connections: Networking Breakfast Buffets

Kickstart Your Day with Conversations and a Hearty Breakfast

Kickstart each day at the Business Bourbon & Cigars leadership retreat with our Networking Breakfast Buffets. These morning gatherings, scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, offer more than just a sumptuous selection of breakfast favorites. They provide a unique opportunity to connect and engage with fellow leaders and entrepreneurs in a relaxed, informal setting.

As you savor a variety of delectable breakfast options, you’ll have the chance to spark conversations, exchange ideas, and build relationships that could shape the future of your business. These breakfasts are designed to fuel both your body and your professional network, setting the tone for a day of learning, collaboration, and growth.

Enhanced Networking Lunches

Maximize Your Mid-day

Embrace the new extended lunch break at our Networking Lunches, thoughtfully designed to cater to your multi-faceted retreat experience. With an additional half hour, you have the freedom to indulge in longer conversations, explore new business avenues with fellow attendees, catch up on critical communications, or even host a virtual check-in with your team or prospective clients. This is your time to recharge, connect, and multitask in the company of peers, all while enjoying a selection of exquisite cuisine.

These lunches aren’t just a pause—they’re a valuable extension of your Business Bourbon & Cigars experience, enabling you to balance nourishment with productivity.

Enchanting Evening at the William Aiken House

A Night of Elegance, Connection, and Discovery

Join us for a memorable evening at the historic William Aiken House, an exquisite venue that captures the charm and sophistication of Charleston’s rich heritage. This enchanting 1807 mansion will serve as the backdrop for a night of connection, networking, and relaxation among fellow attendees.

As you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by the breathtaking grounds, featuring a magnificent two-century-old magnolia tree surrounded by manicured lawns and sunlit courtyards. The elegant pergolas and Gothic-style Carriage House provide a captivating atmosphere for our gathering.

Throughout the evening, you’ll have the chance to explore the beautifully appointed ballrooms and formal dining spaces, adorned with museum-caliber artwork and antiques. Enjoy casual conversations as you unwind and connect with like-minded professionals who share your passion for innovation and leadership.

For those interested in unique experiences, you can participate in a curated tasting of rare bourbons, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore different flavors and perhaps find something new to enjoy. Additionally, a skilled cigar roller will be on hand to showcase the art of cigar rolling, offering a fun and interactive element to the evening for those who wish to learn more about this tradition.

While the focus of the evening is on connection and enjoyment, we encourage the organic exchange of insights and ideas that may arise from the discussions you’ve had during the retreat. This ambiance creates the perfect backdrop for deepening relationships and fostering new ones.

The William Aiken House combines history and elegance, making this evening a highlight of the Business Bourbon & Cigars leadership retreat. Whether reconnecting with familiar faces or meeting new acquaintances, this enchanting night promises to leave a lasting impression.

Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to enhance your retreat experience. If you’re already registered, prepare for an evening of sophistication and camaraderie. If you haven’t signed up yet, let this enchanting night at the William Aiken House be the reason you join us. Experience the perfect setting for connection and inspiration!

Historic City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt

A Charleston Adventure

Get ready to experience Charleston like never before with a Historic City Walking Tour combined with a high-energy Scavenger Hunt, designed to challenge your teamwork and leadership skills in one of America’s most charming cities.

This exciting adventure, led by the expert guides at Bulldog Tours, will take you through Charleston’s cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks, all while testing your problem-solving abilities and your group’s competitive spirit.

As you explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Charleston, you’ll work with your team to solve clues and complete challenges scattered across the historic district. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with fellow leaders while discovering hidden stories and secrets from the past.

The fun doesn’t stop there – at dinner that evening, we’ll announce the winning teams, giving everyone the chance to celebrate their victories in true Charleston style.

What to Expect:

  • A fascinating guided tour of Charleston’s historic streets and landmarks
  • A fun, interactive scavenger hunt designed to bring out your competitive side
  • A celebratory dinner where the top teams are honored

Join us for an experience where history, teamwork, and friendly competition come together for a one-of-a-kind Charleston adventure!

Dinner at Victor’s Steak & Seafood

A Culinary Experience

After an exciting day of exploring Charleston’s historic streets and engaging in the scavenger hunt, join us for a memorable dinner at Victor’s Steak & Seafoodan iconic Charleston restaurant known for its exceptional steak and Southern-inspired cuisine.

Victor’s offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere where you’ll enjoy a carefully crafted menu featuring prime steaks and an array of delicious accompaniments. With every dish prepared using the finest locally sourced ingredients, your dinner will be an experience that satisfies both the palate and the spirit. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind, reflect on the day’s events, and build meaningful connections with fellow leaders in a relaxed, upscale setting.

As the evening progresses, we’ll celebrate the top-performing teams from the scavenger hunt, making it a night of recognition and camaraderie.

Evening Highlights:

  • Prime Steaks & Southern Flavors: Indulge in a meal that highlights the best of local flavors
  • Celebrating Success: The announcement of the winning scavenger hunt teams
  • Building Connections: Enjoy a relaxed, upscale dining experience with fellow leaders

Wrap up a day of adventure, insight, and growth with a fantastic dinner at Victor’s, where the food, the ambiance, and the company come together to create an unforgettable evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Will there be time during the event to communicate with my office team or clients back home?
    Yes, we understand the importance of staying connected with your team or clients while you're away. Our schedule includes 90-minute networking lunches, giving you time to handle calls, emails, or even Zoom meetings. We also have scheduled breaks throughout the day for quick communication. However, during mastermind sessions, it's essential to remain fully engaged and present. Your participation is crucial not just for your own growth but for the success of the entire group, as the mastermind process relies on everyone’s input.
  • Do I have to drink bourbon or smoke cigars to attend Business Bourbon & Cigars?
    No, you do not have to drink bourbon or smoke cigars to attend the retreat. While we do offer bourbon tastings, (as well as other spirit options) and cigar opportunities for attendees who choose to participate, these activities are completely optional. The focus of the retreat is on collaborative problem-solving and business growth, and attendees are free to participate in whatever activities they feel comfortable with.
  • What is the Mastermind Roundtable Process?
    The Mastermind Roundtable Process is a unique and innovative framework designed to provide members with the tools, strategies, and support they need to overcome their toughest business challenges and drive growth in their businesses. During the retreat, attendees will participate in a series of mastermind sessions where they will work in small groups to identify challenges, develop solutions, and create action plans for achieving their goals.
  • Is this event a pitch fest where speakers and/or attendees attempt to sell their products or services?
    No, this event is not a pitch fest. While attendees will have the opportunity to network and build relationships with other small business owners and entrepreneurs, the focus of the retreat is on collaborative problem-solving and business growth. We do not require attendees to sell or promote their products or services during the event, and we ask that all attendees respect this focus to create a supportive and collaborative environment for all participants.
  • How many attendees will there be at the retreat?
    We limit attendance to a small group of small and mid-size business owners, entrepreneurs, and executives to ensure an intimate and personalized experience. The exact number of attendees may vary from retreat to retreat, but we aim to keep the group size between 70-100 participants.
  • Is "Business Bourbon & Cigars" a leadership retreat for men only?
    Absolutely not. We understand that the name may raise concerns about inclusivity, but we want to assure all potential attendees that this retreat is open to anyone who is interested in problem-solving, business growth, and building strong relationships with other professionals. Our attendees come from diverse backgrounds and industries, and we welcome all small business owners, and entrepreneurs who are committed to learning, collaborating, and achieving their goals. The name "Business Bourbon & Cigars" reflects our relaxed and informal approach to learning and networking, but it does not exclude anyone based on gender or any other characteristic.
  • What is included in the ticket price?
    The ticket price includes access to all mastermind sessions, workshops, and keynote speeches, as well as all scheduled meals, refreshments, activities and excursions during the retreat.
  • Is lodging included in the ticket price?
    Lodging is not included in the ticket price. However, we have secured a discounted rate at the hotel where the mastermind sessions will take place. Once you register, a hotel link will appear that will allow attendees to make reservations at the discounted rate.
  • What is the dress code for the retreat?
    The dress code for the retreat is business casual. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and shoes for the various activities and excursions.
  • Is transportation provided to and from the retreat location?
    Transportation to and from the retreat location is not provided. However, all transportation for all activities and excursions will be provided and is included.
  • What is the cancellation/refund policy?
    Because we limit attendance to a small group of small business owners, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals there is a no refund policy for all ticket purchases.
  • How can I contact the organizers if I have additional questions or concerns?
    You can contact the organizers by email at retreat@businessbourboncigar.com or by phone at (831) 331-7866. We are happy to answer any additional questions or concerns you may have about the retreat.
About the Venue

Hotel Bennett Charleston

Experience the Venue

Together, We Achieve More!