Origin Story
Through cycles of burnout, recovery, and self-discovery, we realized that lasting change begins by reconnecting with your deepest sense of self.
Clearing that path wasn’t easy. Even with outward success, we often felt blocked—until we learned to approach life from the inside out.
LUMI isn’t just a method we teach—it’s a way of living we’ve tested and refined. By Listening, Unwinding, Moving, and Integrating [new practices], we discovered what brings fulfillment, joy, and clarity.
Our experiences span 65 countries and multiple international relocations—travel has been both our education and passion. Every retreat we plan is infused with that curiosity, insight, and attention to detail.
What started as a personal journey evolved into an intentional framework for transformation. Our mission is to help others feel their best, take meaningful steps toward living authentically, and thrive long after the retreat ends.
Whether you’re seeking a gentle reset or a deeper shift, LUMI is designed for curious minds ready to pause, explore, and reconnect—with themselves, their energy, and the world around them.
Your Wellness Partners,
Jess & Jill
Wellness Team
Jess Romano
Growing up in New York, I approached life with curiosity and ambition, striving for excellence in both personal and professional pursuits.
After studying at Binghamton University, I built a career on Wall Street before pivoting to Silicon Valley. Even amid outward success, a quiet restlessness grew. Facing cancer at 29 was a turning point, inspiring me to live with greater intention and presence.
Travel has shown me how differently people can live—and how profoundly simple life can feel. Today, I call Spain and Croatia home, savoring community, curiosity, and the rhythm of slower living. It’s a privilege to bring my love of travel, hospitality, and wellness to LUMI, guiding others to explore, reconnect, and step more fully into their own personal evolution.
Jill McLaren
Raised in Switzerland, now living in Hawaii, with American and German roots, I’ve developed a strong connection to nature, wellness, and diverse cultures.
After studying environmental science at UC Santa Barbara, I entered the tech industry as a software engineer at Fortune 500 companies and unicorn start-ups, but soon realized that success to me wasn’t about accolades—it was about joy, presence, and personal fullfilment.
My wellness journey began with yoga and Pilates, which grounded me and brought daily happiness. I’ve built a life around that feeling—teaching yoga and leading activities that nurture both body and mind.
We met in New York and reconnected years later in San Francisco over travel, adventure, and life’s big questions. Living together in France deepened our friendship and inspired LUMI—a method and pathway for sustainable wellbeing, curiosity, and joy.
Drawing on our combined expertise in mind-body practices, strategy, teaching, and coaching, we craft authentic, thoughtfully curated experiences that help you pause, explore, and reconnect—with yourself, your energy, and the world around you.
Contact us
We’re here to help you start your LUMI experience. Whether you have questions about our retreats, need assistance with booking, or simply want to learn more about what we offer, we’d love to connect with you.