For couples
Great Start
Premarital Workshop
Used at universities and churches nationwide
The habits and patterns you build at the beginning of a relationship shape everything that follows. Great Start gives you and your partner the tools to build a healthy, lasting marriage from day one.
Why it matters
Most couples skip this step.
The ones who don't have a real advantage.
Only 35–40% of engaged couples receive any premarital education — and that's a shame, because research shows that premarital training reduces the risk of divorce by 30% and significantly improves overall marital satisfaction.
You wouldn't start a business without a plan, or a road trip without a map. Your marriage deserves the same intentionality. Great Start gives you the practical skills and shared foundation that most couples spend years trying to figure out on their own.
The best time to invest in your marriage is before the hard times hit.
Who Great Start is for
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Engaged Couples
Get ready for marriage with practical skills and honest conversations before the wedding day.
❤️
Dating Couples
Thinking seriously about a future together? Start building the right foundation now.
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Newlyweds
Just married? Establish healthy patterns early and give your marriage the start it deserves.
What you'll cover
10 sessions covering everything couples need to build a strong, lasting marriage.
Introduction
Set the foundation for a thriving marriage — understand what makes relationships work and what puts them at risk.
Intimacy: Friends First
The strongest marriages are built on deep friendship. Learn how to cultivate that bond intentionally.
Intimacy: "We" Begins With "Me"
A healthy marriage starts with two healthy people. Understand your own identity, emotional patterns, and self-care.
Intimacy: Communication
Learn the communication skills that create safety, understanding, and connection — and what to avoid.
Intimacy: Expectations
Unspoken expectations cause more conflict than almost anything else. Get on the same page before they become problems.
Intimacy: Problem Solving
A practical seven-step method for working through conflict together without damaging your relationship.
Intimacy: Financial Wisdom
Money is one of the top causes of divorce. Build a shared approach to finances before the pressure hits.
Passion: Healthy Sexual Intimacy
Build the trust and understanding that leads to a fulfilling, lasting sexual relationship.
Affair-Proofing Your Marriage
Understand the patterns and vulnerabilities that lead couples astray — and how to protect against them.
Commitment
Commitment is more than a feeling — it is a decision. Learn what lasting commitment looks like in real life.
Two versions available
Christian and Standard editions
Great Start comes in a Christian version — woven with Scripture and a faith-based perspective on marriage — and a Standard version that covers the same practical content without religious references. Both editions are equally comprehensive and effective.
Ready to get started?
Enroll in the self-paced course
Work through all 10 sessions together on your own schedule. The online course is self-paced, so you go at whatever speed works for you — no deadlines, no pressure.
One-time purchase. Lifetime access.
For Pastors, Counselors & Group Leaders
Leader's Package
Want to teach Great Start in your office, church, or with a large group? The Leader's Package gives you everything you need to facilitate the full workshop yourself — for as many participants as you want.
What you receive:
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Leader's Guide PDF — complete facilitator notes and instructions for each session
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Full PowerPoint presentation — professionally designed slides for all 10 sessions
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Permission to print unlimited copies of the Participant's Guide PDF for your group
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Available in both Christian and Standard (non-religious) versions
$125
One-time purchase — no per-participant fees
About Wib
Built from 35 years of experience.
Wib Newton is a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist with over 35 years of experience helping individuals and couples build healthy, lasting relationships. He is the founder of New Hope Resources and has worked with thousands of people — in private practice, in churches, and in universities.
Great Start was developed out of Wib's deep belief that the best investment a couple can make is in their relationship — especially before the hard seasons arrive. The material has been refined over decades of real-world use and is trusted by churches and universities across the country.
He has been married since 1976. His wife is his biggest cheerleader.
Give your marriage a great start.
The investment is small.
The return is a lifetime.
Questions? Email wib@newhoperesources.com
You can fix your relationship troubles
You just need a little direction. Contact Wib directly to ask a question or request a consultation.