How to Plan a Women’s Ministry Retreat That Fills Hearts (and Seats)
Create a meaningful getaway that inspires connection, spiritual growth, and full attendance.
Planning a women’s ministry retreat is more than just coordinating meals and booking a venue—it’s about creating a space where women can step away from life’s noise, connect deeply, and experience renewal.
But if you’ve ever tried to plan one, you know: getting women to commit—and stay engaged—can be a challenge.
At Spring Lakes Ranch, we’ve hosted hundreds of women’s retreats, and we’ve learned what works (and what doesn’t). Here’s how to plan a retreat that not only fills hearts—but fills every seat in the house.
1️⃣ Clarify the Purpose
Start by getting crystal clear on why you’re gathering.
Is it for spiritual rest? Building deeper friendships? Growing in the Word? Having fun and fellowship?
🎯 The clearer your purpose, the easier it is to design the content—and the easier it is to invite women with a compelling “why.”
2️⃣ Choose a Location That Sets the Tone
🏞 Environment matters. Women crave peace, beauty, and a break from the daily grind. Choose a venue that feels like a true getaway—but is still within driving distance.
Spring Lakes Ranch, nestled in Central Texas between Dallas, Austin, and Houston, offers:
Serene natural beauty
Private lodging
Indoor & outdoor gathering spaces
You’ll have space to be still—and space to laugh, worship, and grow together.
3️⃣ Design a Meaningful (But Flexible) Schedule
Too many sessions? Feels like a conference.
Not enough structure? Feels scattered.
✨ The key is intentional variety:
Worship & teaching
Testimonies & small groups
Free time for nature walks, kayaking, journaling, or naps
Optional creative or recreational activities (like crafts, bonfires, or quiet mornings with coffee)
This balance helps women connect—with God and each other—without burnout.
4️⃣ Make It Easy to Say Yes
You want women to attend? Remove the barriers.
Here’s how:
💡 Offer early-bird pricing or group discounts
🚗 Provide child care stipends or carpool options
📦 Share a clear packing list and expectations
💳 Offer payment plans if needed
Don’t forget to promote with warmth and excitement—testimonies from past retreats are a powerful way to help women say “yes” with confidence.
5️⃣ Prioritize Connection Over Perfection
The most meaningful moments?
They usually don’t come from a speaker’s slide deck.
They happen when women:
Share hearts around a firepit
Laugh over late-night snacks
Cry during worship
❤️ Plan for vulnerability and connection—not just information.
6️⃣ Follow Up After the Retreat
Retreats shouldn’t be one-off mountaintop moments. They should be launchpads into deeper community and spiritual growth.
After the retreat:
📸 Email a recap with highlights and photos
🔗 Share session resources and notes
👭 Encourage small group connections
📋 Ask for feedback to improve next time
✅ Ready to Plan a Life-Giving Women’s Retreat?
Spring Lakes Ranch offers everything you need for a peaceful, purpose-filled gathering: luxurious lodging, stunning scenery, and plenty of room for meaningful connection.
Whether you’re bringing 25 or 100 women, we’d love to help you create a weekend that fills hearts, renews faith, and brings your ministry vision to life.
📍 3662 Patton Lake Rd, Aquilla, TX
📧 info@springlakesranch.com
🌐 www.springlakesranch.com