Honoring the Love. Untangling the Grief. Authoring the Future.

orange county, california

The Next Chapter
Widow Grief Retreat

A personalized widow grief retreat for only 6 widows, held at a lovely boutique hotel in Orange County, CA. Hope and healing for your grieving heart. There is no other widow retreat like this!

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You Are Invited To:

A 4 day intimate widow grief support & healing experience with 5 other widows.
Experience a safe place to go deep into your broken heart to start releasing the pain of your loss while holding on to the love.
Learn how to live again after the loss of your husband and rediscover who you are by creating a good, yet different life, while remembering him well.
Get away from the busyness of life and come to a safe place of widow support to deal with all emotions and widow grief in an environment that encourages refreshment and restoration.

Why We Are Unique and the Best
Widow Retreat Available

In grief counseling with widows and being a widow and widower, we have seen the same pattern happening over and over again:

You hurt more than you ever thought possible, and you’re not sure how to go on from here.
You wonder what your life will look like and who you will be without your husband.
You may feel overwhelmed, fearful and stuck.
You don’t want to stay in this place but you have no idea what to do.

So we designed the best widow retreat we could to deal with two areas – healing from the emotional pain and trauma of widow grief and preparing you for how to create a good life, while honoring and remembering your husband.

This retreat is designed as a sanctuary for your heart. We move through 3 intentional phases:

1. Grounding in our shared experience.

2. Releasing the weight that no longer serves us.

3. Envisioning the vibrant life that still awaits.

We hope you will join us for this special event uniquely designed to support widows in a life changing way.

Schedule a clarity call or reach out to us today!

The Sanctuary Experience:

Privacy & Peace

A Sacred Space for Your Private Process.

The Pillars of the Retreat:

Private Processing: All deep work is done 1-on-1 with your expert grief coach (who is also widowed), or in private reflection.
Sacred Space: We give you the physical and emotional room to give your grief the undivided attention it deserves.
Rest & Restoration: Time is intentionally built-in for you to breathe, rest, and reset away from the noise of your ‘real world’ life.
A Sisterhood that ‘Gets It’: You will be surrounded by five other women—a small circle of widowed sisters who understand your language without you having to explain a word.

Our Philosophy: Remembering Him Well

Healing is Not Forgetting

Many widows hesitate to do healing work because they fear that ‘feeling better’ means ‘forgetting their husband.’ We believe the opposite.

Our retreat is designed to help you remember him well, but with less pain, and to honor him as you learn to live again.

6 Women. 2 Expert Coaches. 1 Journey

Each of our expert grief coaches work with only three women. This ensures that when a question arises or a wave of emotion hits, your coach is right there to anchor you. And all deep processing work is done one on one with your coach.

The Boutique Details:

The Setting: We gather at a charming boutique hotel, providing an intimate backdrop for our work. While guests arrange their own lodging, we have secured a discounted block of rooms to keep our circle close.
Nourishment: We provide a continental breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack time daily, so your only focus remains on your own restoration.
The Aftercare: The retreat doesn’t end when you leave. Each attendee receives a private follow-up session with her coach 1–2 weeks later to help bridge the transition home.

IS THIS YOUR TIME?

Do you feel 'stuck' in your grief, unsure of how to find the path forward?
Are you longing for a place where you can finally focus on your own healing?
Do you want to honor your husband by learning to live again while remembering him well?

Expert Care From Coaches Who Have Walked The Path

You will never have to explain your grief to us. We’ve lived it. We are fellow widows. We combine professional clinical expertise with the deep, lived understanding of what it means to lose a spouse. We aren’t just your guides; we are your fellow travelers in this journey.

Led by grief and trauma specialists Anne-Marie Lockmyer & Ron Gray, LMFT, this unique 4 day, in-person widow retreat will take place in beautiful Southern California and provide the opportunity for immense healing and processing of grief.

Anne-Marie Lockmyer

Anne-Marie Lockmyer is a grief specialist, certified in critical incident stress debriefing, a certified trauma-integrative practitioner, 8-time award-winning author on grief, and founder of The Grief & Trauma Healing Network. As a widow herself, Anne-Marie knows the pain and devastation that grief and loss cause and is living proof that you can go from surviving to thriving.

Anne-Marie offers life-changing grief support for widows with widow retreats and also works with individuals and families worldwide. She leads grief support groups, offers crisis grief support for businesses, grief training for therapists and counselors, and speaks on grief wherever she can. She is passionate about advocating for and loving grievers, especially supporting widows and being an educational catalyst to society on grief and loss.

Ron Gray

Ron Gray is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in grief and trauma, and founder of OC Christian Counseling and Christian Grief and Trauma. Ron’s developed a passion for helping people heal from loss and related trauma following the loss of his wife to a prolonged fight with cancer.

Ron facilitates grief recovery groups, offers life-changing retreats for widows, individuals and families, and trains therapists on grief and loss. Ron is a public speaker focused on grief and loss topics, and helps clients heal from lingering trauma symptoms associated with their deeply personal losses. Ron is also the owner and co-founder of The Haven Spiritual Retreat Center in Orange, California.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 42 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Ann 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nearly a year after I lost my beloved husband, I attended a retreat with these folks. I still miss my love daily, but Anne-Marie and Ron gave me tools and a support network (including wonderful new friends!) to move forward without feeling like I'm leaving him behind. If you feel stuck in the sadness and hopelessness grief, I recommend reaching out to them as an important first step in learning how to craft the next part of your life.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Karen Elliott 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Anne-Marie and Ron were amazing in helping me process so many emotions and feelings. For so many months I could not have imagined seeing past my grief and sadness.  They gave me hope, peace and so much more. Admittedly I was very nervous to take such a leap and coming to the retreat. I could not have been met with more comfort, compassion, thoughtfulness and kindness to help me figure out my next chapters of life without the love of my life. They are an incredible team !
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Orida Edwards 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. For many years now, annual retreats have been an important part of my self-care — one women’s retreat (preferably a preached but silent retreat) and one couples’ retreat in addition to periodic days of reflection. Until recently, I have never been widowed so I never sought or even researched options for a widows’ retreat. Without a shadow of a doubt, I can wholeheartedly say I feel like I hit the lottery jackpot when I landed in the care of Anne-Marie, Ron, and the team of professionals to whom God entrusted my heart during The Next Chapter Widows’ Retreat. Within 24 hours of my arrival, I was certain of two things:  (1) the level of care I was receiving was nothing short of phenomenal; and (2) ALL of the professionals working with us had a deep and unwavering passion for ministering to widows. Imagine receiving one-on-one counseling, guidance, and intensive therapy. Imagine the safe space that naturally resulted from intimate group sessions limited to four widows who almost immediately became part of a really tight-knit community that felt more like family than friends. Imagine being led through a grief process that promotes honoring the memory of your late husband and carrying his spirit and his presence with you into the future as you begin the next chapter of your journey in a super healthy way! This imagination quickly became a reality for me during the pre-arrival exercises and especially once I was able to enter our safe space, embrace Anne-Marie, Ron, their support team, and my fellow retreatants.  I will forever be grateful for the role that The Next Chapter Retreat team played in preparing me for the next phase of my journey, for providing us with a toolkit of techniques we can use to deal with various other losses, and for making themselves available to us post-retreat. This is really my definition of family. I am truly grateful to now be a part of The Next Chapter family.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Denise Peise 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot express the gratitude I feel for Ron, Anne-Marie, Sadie and my fellow Hummingbirds.  I was nervous to attend the retreat but upon arrival was quickly put at ease by the warm, welcoming environment and instant connection all of my fellow widows formed.  From how we all seemed to feel and interact during the course of the retreat, I feel we made some important strides in the healing process and I took home some valuable tools that I could use back home in everyday life.  I highly recommend this retreat to anyone who has the need.  It was transformational for me! Thank you Hummingbirds! And a deep, sincere expression of thanks to Anne-Marie and Ron.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nancy Osman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ann Marie and Ron are thoughtful in every way. While at the widows retreat my mind, body, soul and heart were cared for. They are compassionate leaders. Everything done has a purpose, trust the process and you will not regret taking the time to come to The Haven. As Ann Marie says "the work is brutiful"
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Cindy Napolitano 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I absolutely recommend the Widow's Retreat with Anne-Marie & Ron. I was so scared to go but I needed and wanted help with my grief.

I never thought that a weekend could make the difference in my perspective on the loss of my beloved Patrick. They do not ask you to leave your person behind.  They help you to go into your next chapter with all the memories of your LOVE bringing him along.

They treat you with kindness and love. Everything you need or want is there. You have all the privacy you want in a beautiful environment. They encourage you , in a firm but gentle way,
to go places , in your mind, you didn't think you could possibly do.

The other Ladies help with the process. They truly understand and yet all our stories were so different and yet the same.
It was also wonderful to work with the horses. The horses had a way of teaching us about ourselves with their wonderful handler Kelly.

If you have the opportunity to go.... GO!!!!  They said I would feel lighter. I thought they were crazy but it is so true. It takes hard work but you can do it. I did it and am so eternally grateful.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Michelle MC 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I'm so grateful I attended the Widow's Retreat last month, and did some exceptional grief work to help me move forward! Ron and Anne-Marie are quite amazing people and such gifted counselors. Seek them out. There is true healing when we do the work. On to the Next Chapter!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Linda 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recommend this weekend retreat to any widow who has done some of the hard grieving work, perhaps feels stuck, and needs some help and guidance to move forward. I felt a seismic shift happen within me after the retreat. Something almost tangible yet hard to express in words. I came home and found myself more present and ready to live. I don't think about my husband and fall into the well of obsessive thinking about all that happened the last year of his life; the things I did and didn't do, and the things I said, and didn't say, etc. The freedom from perseverating over the past has been lifted. This is a huge relief.

Anne-Marie and Ron provide a safe, comforting, beautiful and nurturing place to stay. They thought of everything. You will be taken care of in a gentle, loving way so that you can focus on yourself, your grief, the exercises and enjoying connecting with three other women who "get it". I'm truly grateful for the opportunity I had to do this important work. I never imagined so much healing could take place in one weekend, but for me, it did. I feel clearer, I am more grounded, and able to move forward in a way I previously could not have imagined. This weekend was one of the best gifts I could give myself during this difficult time.

If you are ready to commit to working hard, being vulnerable, and willing to sit with difficult emotions; If you can let go of any expectations and remain open to the possibilities; I believe this weekend retreat can be of benefit to you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Marisa Katnić 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This retreat exceeded my expectations and gave me heartfelt hope.  Ron and Anne-Marie are beyond gracious and knowledgeable in dealing with widows.  I am beyond grateful.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Shameem Sennese 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Where to begin? This beautiful retreat at The Haven was a blessing to me on so many levels. First off, Ann-Marie and Ron are so warm and welcoming. They listen to you and do not judge where you are at on your grief journey. They simply come along side you, giving you new tools and ways to cope.The grounds are incredible and beautiful.Easy to get to from airport. Everything was so lovely's many personal touches. The equine therapy with Enzo was surprisingly helpful.I and no idea until I got there what the horse/equine therapy would entail. Amazing experience.
There's one on one therapy and group sessions. I enjoyed getting to know the other women, now I have  formed some new and beautiful friendships. I would highly recommend Haven retreat for anyone with a new or old loss. Needing to have some type of breakthrough.... this was a safe space to be open to next steps.You won't regret it.

Program Registration

$2,985

Credit card, debit, or Zelle accepted

An investment in your peace, healing, and next chapter.

Your registration covers all private and group sessions, materials, and daytime nourishment. From breakfast through our final afternoon sessions, you won’t have to think about a thing. We provide a daily continental breakfast, beautiful lunches, and a late-afternoon snack time.

Planning Your Stay & Evenings: While lodging and dinners are not included in the registration fee, we have designed the logistics to be as seamless and stress-free as possible:

Stay With Us: We have a discounted room block at our host hotel. We highly recommend staying on-site so you can rest deeply and stay close to the heart of the retreat.
Gather or Rest for Dinner: Evenings are yours to use as you need—whether that means quiet time to process or dinner with new friends. You can dine effortlessly at the hotel’s on-site restaurant or use our nearby restaurant guide.

Included:

All materials and workbook
4 breakfasts
3 group lunches
3 private, 1-on-1 processing sessions with your grief coach
7 small support circle meetings
9 full group gatherings
Proven grief processing exercises
Rediscovering Me: Our Life Planning Guide
One Aftercare Session with your coach

NOT INCLUDED: Lodging, dinners, or travel insurance.

Take the Next Step

These 6 seats fill incredibly quickly (our last retreats sold out in just two days!). We would love to talk with you to explore if this sanctuary is precisely what your heart needs right now.

Book Your Disovery Call

Upcoming Dates:

Aug. 27-Aug 30th 2026 (FULL)

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Location:

The Ayres Hotel Costa Mesa/Newport Beach

325 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Hotel Website

(The closest airport is Orange County – SNA, and the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle.)

Secure Your Seat in the Circle

6 Seats. 3 ½ Days. A Lifetime of Change.

Book Your Disovery Call

Because we limit our retreats to 6 women to maintain our 3:1 coaching ratio and ensure total privacy, spaces fill very quickly.
Have questions about travel or logistics? We’ll cover everything in our short discovery call.

We recommend that you attend the retreat at least 6 months after your loss to get the best results.

CONTACT US

Finding Joy After The

Loss of a Spouse

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Widows Grief Retreat?

It is a safe healing space designed to support widows in processing grief and emotional pain. We help participants find comfort, connection, and inner healing.

How many women attend each retreat?

Each retreat is intentionally kept very small, with only 6 widows. This allows for a deeply personal experience, strong emotional safety, and meaningful connection within a close sisterhood environment where everyone truly understands each other’s journey.

Do I get private support during the retreat?

Yes. A key part of the retreat is private processing time with expert grief coaches. Each participant receives dedicated 1-on-1 sessions in addition to group support, ensuring that personal emotions and experiences are handled with care, attention, and professional guidance.

Where is the retreat held, and do I need to arrange my own stay?

The retreat is held at a boutique hotel in Costa Mesa/Newport Beach, California. Participants typically arrange their own lodging, but a discounted room block is available at the host hotel, making it easier for everyone to stay close and connected during the experience.

Will attending the retreat mean I forget my husband?

Not at all. The retreat is built on the philosophy that healing does not mean forgetting. Instead, it helps widows learn how to honor and remember their husband while slowly rebuilding life with less emotional pain and more peace.

How will I know if this retreat is the right fit for me?

Whether your loss was recent or many years ago, if your heart is still aching, please know that you belong here. We created this space specifically to walk beside you on a gentle journey toward healing. Often, we remain stuck not because we lack the desire to heal, but simply because we haven’t been given the right tools. We are here to offer you those tools and personally guide you through the same transformative healing path we share with our clients.

If you feel overwhelmed by the weight of moving forward or uncertain how to begin creating a life that feels beautiful again, this retreat is a gift for your soul. If you have been merely surviving and long to truly thrive, or if you feel you should be further along than you are, we invite you to find rest and renewal here. You don’t have to do this alone.

Why is the investment cost what it is?

When designing this experience, we were faced with a choice. We could have hosted a large-scale event for 50 to 100 women. While that approach would be more affordable, it simply wouldn’t provide the deep, lasting impact we desire for every participant.

Our goal is to facilitate a truly life-changing transformation. To achieve this, the retreat must remain small and intimate, allowing for a personalized journey tailored to each woman’s unique needs and current stage of healing.

What if I feel hesitant or uneasy about attending?

Please know that your feelings are completely natural; every woman joining us feels exactly the same way. While we all yearn for progress, stepping outside our familiar boundaries and embracing vulnerability can be daunting. We are dedicated to supporting you through every step, starting with pre-care designed to put your mind at ease long before you arrive. Do not let apprehension stand in your way. Reclaiming your life and finding healing may require you stepping out of your comfort zone – and the results are well worth it!

It is completely natural to feel a sense of hesitation or unease; in fact, every woman who joins us share those same feelings. While the desire for progress is strong, stepping into vulnerability and moving beyond what is familiar can feel daunting. We are here to support you through each phase of this journey, including pre-care measures intended to bring you peace of mind well before the retreat begins. Don’t let apprehension hold you back—healing and reclaiming your life often require stepping outside of your comfort zone, and the transformation that awaits is truly worth it.

How do I sign up or take the next step?

Because I want to ensure this experience is the perfect fit for you and address any questions you may have, online registration is not available. Our priority is your healing, and if we feel this isn’t the right path for you, we will be honest with you. Please reach out via email, phone, or the contact form on this page so we can schedule a time to connect and chat. 😊

The Next Chapter
Widow Grief Retreat