Our Story
Marriage Retreatz, LLC was born from a simple yet profound realization: marriages, like any valuable endeavor, need intentional care and creativity to flourish. After 10 years of dating and 12 years of marriage, we faced the same challenges many couples do—balancing work, family, and the day-to-day demands of life.
In 2021, we created and held our first retreat as a way to reconnect and refocus on our relationship. That transformative experience inspired us to create several more retreats, each with a unique focus and new opportunities to strengthen our bond.
By the time we completed our fourth retreat, we knew we had created something truly special. That’s when Marriage Retreatz, LLC was officially born—a way to share what we had learned and experienced with other couples who are looking to strengthen their partnership.
Today, Marriage Retreatz, LLC is built on the belief that every couple deserves the time and space to nurture their relationship. We’re passionate about helping others build strong, fulfilling marriages and are excited to share this journey with you.
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About Jackie C. Thomas, Jr., Ph.D.
Jackie is a man on a mission—to help couples create stronger, more intentional marriages through laughter, connection, and a little creativity. With a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Individual Differences, he brings a deep understanding of human behavior and relationships to this work. As a Certified Master Coach and Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, Jackie is passionate about helping couples uncover their unique strengths and build thriving partnerships.
Drawing on over 20 years of leadership experience in higher education, Jackie blends strategy, humor, and heart in all that he does. Outside of Marriage Retreatz, he takes pride in being Melanie’s husband, Mia and Jackson’s dad, and an all-around enthusiast of life’s adventures. Whether he’s sparring with his Taekwondo-loving daughter, cheering on his son’s Cub Scout achievements, or treasure-hunting for sharp suits at thrift shops, Jackie knows how to make every moment meaningful.
Jackie believes that strong marriages are built on intentional care, effective communication, and a willingness to grow together. With his unique blend of expertise and life experience, he’s dedicated to helping couples create love stories that last a lifetime.
GallupStrengths: Strategic, Futuristic, Maximizer, Ideation, Communication
Melanie L. Thomas, PT, DPT.
Currently on her own spiritual journey, Melanie embodies love, peace, and enlightenment. She’s all about self-care, health, and wellness, and as a vegetarian, she believes in nurturing the body as much as the soul. Melanie is deeply committed to embracing her divine femininity, which fuels her role as the nurturer and glue that holds her family together. When she’s not helping others find balance, you’ll find Melanie dancing, exploring new destinations, or savoring meaningful moments with friends and family. Her love for travel reflects her adventurous spirit, while her devotion to her family reflects her unwavering belief in the power of connection.
With Melanie’s unique blend of wisdom, grace, and passion for helping others thrive, she brings a calming presence to everything she touches. Her goal is simple: to help couples find healing, joy, and wholeness as they navigate their journey together.
GallupStrengths: Consistency, Positivity, Developer, Arranger, Learner
Our Vision
We aim to create a world where every couple has the opportunity to invest in their relationship and thrive together through all of life’s seasons.