2026 Sedona Yoga Festival

Meet Rachel: The Heart Behind Renew Collective
"What inspired you to create this?" It's a question I get all the time. The answer? A winding journey through photography meetups, book clubs, and the discovery that the most meaningful communities arise from filling a void you've experienced yourself.
I'm Rachel, and my relationship with alcohol ended unexpectedly at 22 – severe reactions to even the smallest amounts meant headaches, nausea, and exhaustion that just wasn't worth it. But here's where it gets interesting: in my mid-40s, I discovered an entire universe of alcohol-free alternatives enriched with adaptogens and functional ingredients. Suddenly, what started as a necessity became an adventure.
From Photographer to Community Builder
My journey into community organizing began long before Renew Collective. In 2009, I found my people through a Meetup photography group, which eventually led to running my own photography business. In 2016, a romance book club introduced me to women who became my inner circle – the kind of friends you travel with, celebrate with, and stay connected to even when life scatters you across the map.
These experiences taught me something powerful: the right community can transform everything.
Why Renew Collective Exists
In 2022, I noticed something missing in the East Bay. While there were plenty of recovery-focused groups, where was the space for:

• The mindful drinkers exploring their relationship with alcohol
• People who don't drink due to medication, allergies, or health goals
• The sober curious wanting to experiment without judgment
• Those who simply prefer the clarity and energy of alcohol-free living
• Anyone seeking deeper connections beyond bar culture

So I created what I wished existed – first as the Sober Curious Club, now evolved into Renew Collective.
Our Philosophy
Life's too short for boring hangouts and surface-level small talk. We're creating spaces where you can actually be yourself – fully present, genuinely connected, and having a blast while doing it.
Our events are alcohol-free, but our hearts are wide open. Whatever your journey looks like – recovery, curiosity, moderation, or just wanting something different – you belong here.
What Makes Us Different
This isn't about preaching or perfection. It's about exploration and connection. I've spent years discovering incredible alcohol-free alternatives (think All the Bitter, Curious Elixirs, Three Spirits) and I love sharing these finds. But more than that, I'm passionate about bringing together wellness-minded individuals who are ready for something more meaningful than another happy hour.
Through trial, error, and countless conversations with members, I've learned that successful community building isn't about numbers – it's about creating genuine connections and safe spaces for exploration.