A Weekend to Reconnect
Our WinShape Marriage Retreat in Rome, Georgia
Three days, two nights, meaningful conversations, fresh mountain air, and intentional time with my husband. Our weekend at WinShape Marriage Retreat was a beautiful reminder that a thriving marriage deserves our time and attention.
A Weekend Away, Just the Two of Us
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your marriage is step away from your everyday routine and make room for each other. Between work, family responsibilities, personal goals, and the many things that demand our attention, it is easy to get caught up in the rhythm of everyday life.
Three years ago, some of our couple friends invited us to attend a retreat at WinShape. What began as an opportunity to try something new has become a tradition we genuinely look forward to. This year was our second time attending, and we have already registered for next year!
Courageous Communication: Our Theme for the Weekend
This year's retreat focused on Courageous Communication, a topic that is important in every marriage. Communication is more than talking to each other. It involves listening, understanding, expressing our needs, navigating disagreements, and learning how to approach difficult conversations with love and care.
We had a speaker for the weekend and participated in four sessions throughout the retreat. Each session gave us dedicated time to focus on the topic, reflect, and engage with the material.
Shared Conversations
Everyone was there with a common purpose: to learn, grow, and strengthen their relationships. I also loved having the opportunity to connect with friends and make memories together..
What the Three-Day, Two-Night Experience Looks Like
Our weekend began with check-in at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and wrapped up with checkout at 12:00 noon on Sunday. The schedule was filled with sessions and activities, so there was always something to look forward to.
Friday: Check-In and Settling In
After arriving and checking in, we had time to settle into our accommodations and transition out of our regular routine. It was refreshing to know that, for the next few days, our focus could be on spending intentional time together.
Saturday: Sessions, Activities, and Time Together
Saturday included the retreat sessions and scheduled activities. Outside the sessions, there were opportunities to enjoy the grounds, spend time with other couples, and try some of the recreational options.
Sunday: A Final Morning Together
We checked out at noon on Sunday, wrapping up our three-day, two-night experience. Although the weekend is relatively short, it creates a meaningful pause in the middle of busy lives.
Getting There: Flights, Rental Cars, and the Drive to Rome
A little planning is needed to get to WinShape, especially if you are flying in. We flew into Atlanta, and Rome, Georgia, is approximately a two-hour drive from the Atlanta area. We rented a car at the airport so we could make the drive to the retreat.
Our friends made the transportation part even easier by renting a three-row SUV that comfortably fit three couples. It was a practical way for our group to travel together, and start the weekend with good company.
For budgeting, the retreat cost was $800 per couple, and our flights were about $700. You will also want to account for the rental car and any related transportation expenses when planning your trip. Flight prices and rental-car costs can vary depending on when you book and your travel dates.
The Food, Cafe, and All-Inclusive Experience
One practical detail I appreciated was that food was included in the cost of the retreat. There was also a cafe on site. Not having to plan every meal or leave the property made it easier to relax and enjoy the weekend. Be sure to check WinShape's current retreat details for exactly what is included in your registration.
My Favorite Part: The Crisp Mountain Air and Serene Nature
One of my favorite things about WinShape is the crisp mountain air and peaceful natural surroundings. There is something about being surrounded by nature that makes it easier to slow down and appreciate the moment. The beautiful grounds, fresh air, and quiet setting create a welcome contrast to the busyness of everyday life.
You do not have to fill every free moment with an activity. Sometimes, simply being outside, taking in the scenery, and enjoying each other's company is enough.
Why I Believe Investing in Your Marriage Matters
We often make plans for work, our children, finances, fitness, vacations, and personal development. Those things matter, but our marriage also deserves a place on the calendar. Investing in your marriage does not have to mean waiting for a difficult season. It can be as simple as scheduling date nights, having honest conversations, praying together, learning how to communicate better, or taking a weekend away.
For us, attending the WinShape Marriage Retreat has become one way to make that investment.
Would I Recommend the WinShape Marriage Retreat?
Absolutely. I would recommend exploring it if you and your spouse want to be intentional about strengthening your marriage and appreciate a faith-centered environment. The structured sessions, shared activities, meals, and peaceful setting create space to reconnect and learn together.
For current themes, dates, pricing, and registration details, visit https://marriage.winshape.org/retreats/.
Already Looking Forward to Next Year!
Our second year at WinShape was another reminder of why we enjoy returning. From the Courageous Communication theme and the four sessions to the all-inclusive experience and peaceful surroundings, the weekend gave us a chance to step away from everyday responsibilities and focus on our marriage.
I am especially grateful to our friends who introduced us to this experience. Three years ago, they extended an invitation, and today, it has become something my husband and I look forward to doing together. We have already registered for next year, and I am excited to return!
Here's to building stronger marriages, having courageous conversations, and continuing to choose each other through every season of life. 🧡
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