A new business bringing together travel, learning and time away from the everyday has been launched by three Wiltshire entrepreneurs.
Janet Shreeve, founder of care consultancy business Shreeve Care Services, Fiona Scott, founder of Swindon-based PR agency Scott Media, and media consultant Lauren Roberts from Chippenham, have joined forces to create Enlightening Escapes.
The idea grew out of years of working with people, listening to their stories, and seeing what actually helps them reset, think clearly and feel more confident. Rather than big conferences or rigid workshops, the trio wanted to create smaller experiences that feel personal and easy to be part of.
“This came from conversations we were already having,” said Fiona. “Between us, we’ve built strong relationships with people doing interesting things, from creatives and business owners to chefs and makers. Enlightening Escapes gives us a way to bring those people together in a relaxed setting, where conversation happens naturally.”
Lauren said the focus is on using skills the team has built up over time. “We all come from very different professional backgrounds, but we’ve spent years working in storytelling, communication and confidence. We know people get more out of learning when they feel comfortable, so the escapes are designed around shared experience rather than being talked at.”
The experiences can be business-focused, lifestyle-led, or a mix of the two, depending on the escape. Each is completely bespoke.
The first overnight retreat takes place in March 2026 at Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort. The weekend will focus on TikTok and video content, with practical talks from business owners who use video as part of their everyday work. Speakers include Malmesbury artist and creator Luke Hollingworth, and family law specialist Steven Wade, whose work and videos have reached millions around the world.
Not all Enlightening Escapes involve staying away. In February 2026, Swindon’s Old Town will host a Thai cuisine evening with 2025 MasterChef finalist Sam Kaeokon. The night will centre around food, stories and making connections, with guests getting a real insight into Sam’s journey and love of cooking.
Looking ahead, the team is also planning escapes in Italy later in 2026.
Italy feels like a natural step, said Janet. “I lived there for several years and speak the language, which means we already have strong local relationships. It allows us to shape experiences around everyday Italian life, from cooking and olive oil making to visiting local fashion designers.”
For more information about Enlightening Escapes and to book your space, visit https://enlighteningescapes.co.uk.
Article by Jo Smyth, Word Worker
