Holistic Retreat Chef

When the meals feel like medicine and the chef feels like home—you know you’ve found someone extraordinary.

As the retreat logistics manager for Courtney Cole’s The Untethered Retreat, I had the pleasure of working closely with Alaya—and I can say without hesitation that she was one of the most beloved parts of the entire experience. From the moment she arrived, Alaya brought a calming, grounded energy that helped set the tone for deep nourishment—not just of the body, but of the heart and spirit, too.

Alaya has an intuitive gift for reading the room and anticipating what guests need before they even know they need it. Whether it was a soothing cup of herbal tea, a beautiful spread of vibrant, locally sourced meals, or simply her quiet, steady presence in the kitchen, she made every guest feel seen, supported, and cared for.

The meals she curated were nothing short of extraordinary—each one was deeply nourishing, satiating without ever feeling heavy. She thoughtfully crafted a menu that accommodated every dietary need in our group, which made our shared meals feel more connective and fulfilling, which created such a warm sense of belonging at the table.

Alaya went above and beyond in every way. Not only did she provide stunning farm-to-table meals, she also kept us hydrated and grounded with spa water, daily herbal teas, and specialty blends designed to promote healing and restoration. And the desserts? Out of this world! Somehow exquisitely indulgent and good for you—every savory bite felt like a sacred offering of love and act of self-care for the body.

Our retreat guests couldn’t stop raving about her creations. Everyone said that Alaya’s presence and food enhanced their retreat experience and made it feel even more special. They felt nourished from the inside out, and many remarked that the meals supported their journey inward just as much as the workshops and activities did.

If you're looking for a chef who brings love, intention, and intuitive care to everything she touches, I can't recommend Alaya highly enough. She’s a rare gem—nurturing, calming, and truly aligned with the kind of healing work retreats are designed to hold.

-Kelly Stokes Brown Linglet Owner of KSB Marketing Online | Experienced Copywriter | Pathmaker & Curator of Transformational Retreats & Events