Our Story

Meet sisters Marea and Monique Kavanagh—the lively visionaries behind Camp Joy. Growing up in a family with an insatiable love for travel, they explored the world from an early age, discovering countless breathtaking places. Their first stop for Camp Joy? The South of France—a place that feels like pure magic, inspiring novels and filling daydreams with its charm, beauty, and authenticity.

But Provence is just the beginning. They are starting with all of their favourite places, France, England and Zihuatanejo, Mexico. Marea and Monique are on a mission to uncover the world’s most fabulous villas, authentic towns, and extraordinary experiences, curating unique retreats for women who crave joy, connection, and adventure. Camp Joy is more than a getaway; it’s a celebration of life’s most inspiring moments, wherever they may be found.

Join them on this exciting journey, starting in Provence and continuing to magical destinations around the globe. Joy awaits!

Co-Founder & Chief Joy Officer

Marea Kavanagh

I feel that every beautiful curve on life's winding road has led me to Camp Joy's moment of creation.

From over fifteen years working in the restaurant industry and for seven years as a General Manager, I honed my love of creating beautiful experiences through great food, wine, atmosphere and that certain 'je ne sais quoi' experience that makes the moment truly unforgettable.

From my own healing journey as a mother to a son with special needs, my eyes were opened to so many healing pathways that, as I dedicated myself to training, became part of who I am: homeopathy, yoga and meditation.

I have worked as a Homeopathic Practitioner for the last twelve years, working with individuals and families (lots of whom have kids with special needs too) to support them on their healing journeys. It has been a tremendous privilege.

The final “nudge” that lead to Camp Joy? Ironically, a serious car accident. As I healed from the experience, the phrase that kept coming to me was “This is not the dress rehearsal Marea!!”

So my personal mission is to spark my own joy…by igniting it in others. The spark is there, inside each one of us, but sometimes it needs something out of the ordinary to rekindle it.

marea@campjoyretreats.com

Co-Founder & Head of Joyful Experiences

Monique Kavanagh

After a surprise exit from my 25-year stint in financial services in 2023, I found myself with an unplanned abundance of free time.

So, I embraced the adventures: penning a children’s book starring my dog Buddy La Rue, riding the rails across the U.S., cruising for 11 days (no typo there!) with my spirited 88-year-old dad, and soaking up moments in Zihuatanejo, my slice of paradise.

The idea of starting a "summer camp for women" was just an enticing suggestion from my sister until it struck me as the perfect next chapter. Amidst personal upheavals—Marea and her husband's car accident, and our mother’s passing—Camp Joy transitioned from a mere daydream early in 2024 to a beautiful reality.

I'm finding so much joy in building a life filled with new adventures and creating a retreat where women come to recharge and connect. Where they can put themselves at the top of their "To Do" lists. Working with my sister (yes, we often accidentally twin and yes, we laugh—a lot!), has been the cherry on top. And yes, it’s turned out to be a fantastic idea!

monique@campjoyretreats.com

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Head of Joyful Design and Zhuzh

Chyna Woolfenden

Camp Joy is thrilled to welcome Chyna Woolfenden as our Head of Design and Zhuzh! Chyna will be infusing beauty and charm into every aspect of our retreats, ensuring that every moment feels magical.

Chyna is not only a creative powerhouse but also an absolute joy to be around. She brings her infectious energy and enthusiasm to every social gathering she attends and plans, ensuring laughter, fun, and unforgettable moments.

Her keen eye for aesthetics and passion for creating joyful experiences was built through her career in film as a camera operator, and her work as a floral designer.

With her unique blend of creative expertise, Chyna is dedicated to making Camp Joy a feast for the senses, where attendees can truly immerse themselves in an atmosphere of beauty, relaxation, and inspiration. We can’t wait for you to experience her magic firsthand!

Sommelier & Retreat Assistant

Anastasia

We’re thrilled to welcome Anastasia (pronounced Ana-STAY-sia) to the Camp Joy team!

Bilingual in French and English (thank goodness), Anastasia grew up between two cultures—UK and France—a blend that shapes her warm, open, and inclusive approach to life.

Anastasia is a certified WSET Level 2 & 3 wine expert with a passion for sharing the joy of wine in a way that’s approachable, fun, and deeply connected to place.

When not at Camp Joy, she runs her own business, Languedoc Wine Experience (languedocwine-experience.com). Her background organizing wine competitions and events—both locally and internationally—means she knows how to make every moment special, with an eye for detail, a warm smile, and a generous pour.

At Camp Joy, we’re excited to have Anastasia behind the scenes alongside Marea and Monique, making magic happen. She’ll also be leading our daily Apéro Hour with curated wine tastings and ensuring that the dinner wine beautifully complements our locally inspired meals.

Anastasia is all about people, connection, and creating meaningful shared moments—especially when they’re paired with a good glass of wine and delicious food.

Join us for Joy

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