In November, I had the opportunity to attend a Shopify Burst with my team. As a fully remote company, Shopify organizes Bursts as a way for dedicated teams to meet in person. With team members located all over the globe, including Ireland, Ottawa, and Las Vegas, it was exciting to finally meet everyone face-to-face.

The Burst was held at the beautiful 1Hotel in Toronto. This hotel is inspired by the natural environment, and it captures the beauty of Lake Ontario and the colors of the passing seasons. The hotel is a sustainable urban retreat, and everything from the materials used to build the hotel to the amenities inside are designed to be eco-friendly. It was a delight to stay in a place that is not only beautiful but also mindful of the environment.

From the moment I walked into 1Hotel, I felt like I had stepped into a spa. The atmosphere was calm, relaxed, and perfect for team building. The hotel's interior is designed to evoke the feeling of being surrounded by nature, and it does so perfectly. Everything is made out of natural wood, and the air smells like fresh flowers and trees. The combination of natural materials and lush greenery creates an oasis in the heart of the city.

The Burst lasted three full days and was packed with a variety of activities. We participated in team-building exercises designed to help us work better together. We had the chance to hear from career coach speakers who shared their insights on professional development. We spent time planning our goals as a team and as individuals, and enjoyed team lunches and dinners. We even had the opportunity to explore the city of Toronto and see some of the local sights. Overall, the Burst was a well-rounded and enriching experience. We went to fancy restaurants and broke bread with team members we had never met in person before. It was a great opportunity to get to know each other on a personal level and strengthen our working relationships.

One of the best parts of the event was the networking opportunities. Being able to meet and connect with team members from all over the world was invaluable. We were able to share ideas, collaborate, and learn from each other in ways that would not have been possible without the in-person interaction.

I had so much fun at the Shopify Burst and feel incredibly grateful that my company offers this opportunity to their employees. Not only was it a great way to connect with my team, but it was also a chance to explore a new city, try new foods, and learn new things.

In conclusion, the Shopify Burst was an unforgettable experience, and 1Hotel was the perfect setting for it. The hotel's commitment to sustainability and the natural environment creates an atmosphere that is both beautiful and calming. I highly recommend attending a Burst if you have the opportunity, and I feel lucky to work for a company that values and invests in its employees in this way.