How One Retreat Changed the Way I View Relationships

Many years ago, while working for a not-for-profit organisation, I was part of a team that received a grant aimed at supporting couples and strengthening relationships. At the time, divorce rates were high, and we wanted to create something that would give couples the opportunity to reconnect before life pulled them too far apart.

Together, we designed an overnight couples retreat.

My husband and I decided to attend ourselves. Having experienced a previous marriage breakdown, I already understood how important it is to nurture a relationship rather than simply assume it will take care of itself. I thought the retreat would be valuable, but I was genuinely surprised by just how much we needed it.

What stood out most was having dedicated time and a guided space to talk about the things that truly mattered, our dreams, our challenges, what was working well, and where we wanted life to take us. Away from the distractions of everyday life, we found ourselves reconnecting in ways we hadn't realised we'd been missing.

The feedback from the other couples was equally heartwarming. Again and again, people shared how grateful they were for the experience and how refreshing it was to simply spend intentional time together.

It made me realise something.

We regularly service our cars. We maintain our homes. We invest time and money into almost every area of our lives, yet our relationships, arguably one of the most important parts of our wellbeing are often expected to thrive without the same care and attention.

Relationships don't need to be broken to deserve nurturing.

Over the years, I haven't come across another retreat quite like the one we created all those years ago. So when I founded Soulhearth, I knew I wanted to bring the concept back.

And I couldn't imagine a more beautiful setting than Trees of Trenance during winter. Surrounded by nature and just ten minutes from Mount Barker, it's the perfect little escape, a chance to step away from the busyness of life and simply enjoy being together.

With glowing recommendations from trusted colleagues, I reached out to Stella Swan. From our very first conversation, I knew she was the perfect person to guide couples through this experience. We could have talked for hours, and I'm incredibly excited about the thoughtful and meaningful morning workshop she has created.

Throughout the day, couples will enjoy nourishing moments together. Picnic baskets have been carefully prepared, with rugs ready for a romantic stroll and a peaceful lunch amongst the beauty of the Adelaide Hills.

The afternoon invites you to slow down even further with a soothing soundbath and the option to indulge in a relaxing couples massage. There will be time to simply be together before coming together again for a fun and interactive Pasta Masterclass with celebrity chef and nutritionist Malissa Fedele. After all, there is something special and often wonderfully messy about cooking together.

As the evening draws to a close, we'll gather around the fire to roast marshmallows beneath the stars, before retreating to cosy accommodation for a restful night's sleep.

And in the morning, after a hearty country breakfast, you'll head home feeling refreshed, reconnected and with beautiful memories to carry forward together.

Because relationships are living, evolving journeys, and every season deserves care, curiosity and connection. Sometimes, all we need is the time and space to nurture what we're creating together. And perhaps that's what Ignite is really about - creating space for love, laughter, connection and the dreams still waiting to unfold.

And perhaps, in slowing down together, we discover that the greatest gift we can give each other is our presence. 🤍 If your hearts are saying "yes", we'd love to welcome you to Ignite. With limited spots remaining, now is the time to gift yourselves a weekend of connection, rest and shared memories.