The 2nd Annual Gurus Pre-Oscar Retreat took place at the I/O Rooftop Lounge of the Godfrey Hotel Hollywood on February 28 and March 1, offering a luxurious and rejuvenating experience ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night.
Designed as a prelude to the Oscars, the exclusive two-day event welcomed Hollywood’s elite, industry leaders, and wellness experts, offering a luxurious escape filled with pampering, high-end gifting, and meaningful community initiatives.
Hosted by Derek Warburton, CEO and Founder of Gurus Magazine, and executive produced by Rachel Wilson, this year’s retreat was designed to provide a much-needed reset for Los Angeles. Reflecting on the city’s recent challenges, Warburton emphasized the event’s purpose, stating, “Los Angeles needed a moment to heal. But as any Angeleno knows, the show must go on. This year, we focused on nourishing our guests in body, mind, and spirit.”
CEO & Founder of Gurus Magazine, Derek Warburton, and Norwegian royalty, Shaman Durek Verett, pose on the red carpet the Gurus Magazine Oscars Retreat – photo by Robin L Marshall at the Godfrey Hotel Hollywood
Guests were treated to a variety of premium wellness experiences, including massages and skincare treatments from South Bay Plastic Surgeons, Jeuveau by Evolus wrinkle treatments by Gurus Award Winner Dr. Michael K. Newman, and B-12 shots designed to boost energy and vitality. Those seeking a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal participated in reiki healing sessions and sound baths from local favorites like Laughing Monk and Hope the Root Healer. Live music performances by Derek Jameson with Jessica Hoover and DJ Kappa provided an immersive atmosphere.
Celebrity Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Michael Newman gives out B-12 wellness shots at the Gurus Magzine Oscars Retreat – photo by Robin L Marshall at the Godfrey Hotel Hollywood on March 1, 2025
A significant highlight of the retreat was its partnership with Habitat for Humanity LA, allowing guests to give back to the community in a meaningful way. Attendees took part in an interactive art project, painting seedling pots with messages of hope for wildfire survivors, a heartfelt gesture that added a philanthropic touch to the event. Adding an inspiring touch to the retreat, Joey DeRuy transformed the venue into a living gallery.
Media personality, Rachel McCord, delights in the Ayala Farms Farmer’s Market at the Gurus Magzine Oscars Retreat – photo by Robin L Marshall at the Godfrey Hotel Hollywood on February 28, 2025
Luxury brands and high-end gifting experiences played a central role in the retreat. Gurus Award Winner Lauren Falcione’s The Blonde Italian delighted guests with gourmet popcorn. Lo Siento Tequila and Mezcal 33 kept spirits high with handcrafted cocktails and The Evolved Co’s Perform H2O kept guests refreshed. The event also showcased Smart Swimsuits, an innovative sustainable swimwear brand, alongside Moon D’Elle’s handcrafted luxury shoes. Additional gifting experiences featured wellness products from Seeverse Gummies, fresh local produce from Ayala Farms, and stunning floral arrangements courtesy of Fleur Valentine LA. Additionally, the event partnered with the nonprofit Plant Based Treaty, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness.
Perform H2O founder, Krish Sidhu, Real Housewives of Dubai star, Taleen Marie, LA Magazine president, Chris Gialanella, & Media Personality, Rachel McCord at Gurus Magazine Oscars Retreat – photo by Kent Burns
The #GurusBeauty Bar, curated by celebrity beauty expert Robyn Newmark, provided high-end skincare and beauty treatments featuring must-have products like Pixi Beauty’s Hydrating Milky Mist, Dr. Pimple Popper’s SLMDS pimple patches, Kevin Murphy’s Hair Resort Spray, and a range of hair treatments from Saints & Sinners. All-natural Balm Diggity Lip Balms and Nicole Miller Lip Glosses. VIP attendees also received the coveted Skin Wand Pro and enjoyed nail art services by Clique the Nail Spot.
Adding to the excitement, a live taping of Gurus Award Winner Mara Dorne’s podcast, BILF (Boss I’d Like to Follow), featured high-profile guests, including the illustrious Cynthia Bailey.
Entrepreneur Mara Dorne interviews Real Housewives of Dubai star Taleen Marie for her podcast BILF (Boss I’d Like to Follow) at the Gurus Magzine Oscars Retreat – photo by Robin L Marshall at the Godfrey Hotel
From FilmCraft LA’s state-of-the-art production gear to Kappa Vision’s cutting-edge innovations and TLW Agency’s social media expertise, the retreat was a true showcase of creativity, glamour, and Hollywood excellence.
CEO&Founder of Gurus Magazine, Derek Warburton, & Davina Potratz snap a selfie at the Gurus Magazine Oscars Retreat – photo by Robin L Marshall at the Godfrey Hotel Hollywood on February 28, 2025
