An exclusive retreat at The Newt in Somerset welcomed key press and industry insiders to discover La Mer’s latest rejuvenating night cream, positioned as a highly curated luxury brand event experience rooted in innovation, nature, and wellbeing.

The experience began with a private educational session led by the brand’s Senior Vice President of Research & Development, followed by a hands-on fermentation workshop inspired by La Mer’s renowned craftsmanship and scientific heritage.

Guests then enjoyed a seasonal lunch before venturing into the estate grounds for a guided foraging experience, reflecting the brand’s connection to nature and sustainability - with ingredients later woven into the evening’s menu. Throughout the day, bespoke facials were delivered by La Mer experts, while brand partner Lumie introduced the science of circadian rhythm and its role in restorative sleep.

In the evening, the Glasshouse was transformed into an ethereal dining setting, inspired by the deep blue tones of the product. Reflective tablescapes, rose gold accents, and hundreds of candles created a layered, atmospheric glow, elevating the experience into a refined example of luxury event design in the UK.

Calligraphy-personalised facial rituals doubled as place settings, adding a bespoke and immersive touch to each guest experience. The evening concluded with a serene overnight stay, complemented by curated gifts from Lumie and Jo Malone London, reinforcing a seamless and thoughtful approach to luxury event planning and guest experience.

La Mer at The Newt: A Rejuvenating Retreat in Somerset

Location & Venue: Monte Carlo Beach Club
Guest Experience: Three-day destination celebration
Design Narrative: 1920s Riviera glamour with and Mediterranean ease
Key Features: Striped ceremony aisle, coral-toned florals, bespoke chuppah, illustrated stationery, poolside dining, live performance by The Gypsy Queens, “Club Char” after-party

HIGHLIGHTS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Yes. Alice Wilkes Design plans luxury brand retreats and press experiences for beauty, wellness, fashion and lifestyle clients, creating multi-day programmes that combine storytelling, hospitality, education and design.

Yes. We produce events and retreats at The Newt in Somerset and similar destination hotels, designing experiences that respond to the estate setting, guest accommodation, dining spaces, gardens and wider sense of place.

A luxury beauty and wellness retreat should feel sensory, calm and purposeful. We consider the guest journey, product narrative, treatments, workshops, dining, room design, gifting and evening atmosphere so every element supports the brand story.

Yes. We plan multi-day programmes for press, VIPs and brand guests, coordinating accommodation, education sessions, meals, activities, treatments, gifting, transport and production. The result is a coherent experience rather than a series of disconnected events.

We build educational moments into the flow of the retreat, using talks, workshops, demonstrations, rituals, menus and design details to communicate the product story in a way that feels engaging and natural for guests.

For brands seeking a design-led event experience that reflects their values and elevates their presence, we invite you to get in touch.

Plan Your Event with Alice Wilkes Design