On the morning of Saturday, May 10, trailblazing women from across the globe gathered at the elegant home of ELYSIAN Founder and Publisher Karen Floyd for a day-long retreat designed to spark connection, insight, and inspiration. This exclusive event marked the culmination of ELYSIAN’s 10-year celebration, blending luxurious hospitality with meaningful dialogue and visionary leadership.
The day began with a dynamic interactive experience moderated by renowned entrepreneur Lori R. Taylor. This innovative exercise encouraged guests to engage in deep conversations and explore personal insights, setting the tone for a day of openness and authenticity. Throughout the retreat, guests enjoyed gourmet nibbles, a curated selection of treats, and a specialty coffee bar featuring Rahm Roast—allowing attendees to break at their leisure and self-curate their retreat experience.
Under a grand white tent on Floyd’s manicured lawn overlooking the water, a powerful lineup of speakers took the stage. Dr. Christina Rahm of DRC Ventures and and businesswoman Anita Zucker, South Carolina Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, and Congresswoman Sheri Biggs joined Floyd and ELYSIAN Impact Director Kimberli Scott to share the story of ELYSIAN—its remarkable evolution and its vision for the future.
Keynote speaker Dawn Tripp, author of Jackie and Georgia, delivered a captivating address that reflected the retreat’s central themes. A finalist for the New England Book Award and winner of the Mary Lynn Kotz Award for Art in Literature, Tripp illuminated the complexities of women’s lives with nuance and grace—her words resonating deeply with ELYSIAN’s ecosystem of accomplished, aspirational women.
An inspiring award ceremony followed, honoring groundbreaking women whose legacies have reshaped industries and communities. Fox Carolina’s Hayley Spitler and WSPA’s Amy Wood hosted a moving tribute to posthumous honorees, followed by the recognition of exceptional women in two categories: those who have impacted South Carolina and those who have made their mark across the nation.
In the afternoon, attendees were treated to a rare, intimate interview as Dr. Christina Rahm of DRC Ventures and The Root Brands sat down with President Atifete Jahjaga, the third President of Kosovo. Their conversation, filled with insight and courage, was a highlight of the day.
Breakout sessions followed, featuring thought-provoking panels on what truly drives success. Lori Taylor led the Global/Business discussion, Amy Wood moderated the Media/Creative panel, Dr. Rahm guided the Professional/STEM dialogue, Karen Floyd led a panel of former and current legislators, and Haley Spitler facilitated the Public Service/Philanthropy panel. Each session brought a fresh, candid approach to the challenges and opportunities facing women today.
As we celebrate the past decade of storytelling and impact, ELYSIAN looks boldly to the future. With gratitude to our readers and to the remarkable women who share their stories, we are proud to continue growing our ELYSIAN Circle—committed to exceptional content, meaningful connection, and lasting change. Here’s to the next ten years.