Perfect for engaged couples, newlyweds, or couples considering marriage.

Start smart

Do you want the 5 year plan or the 50+ year plan for your marriage? When it comes to your most valuable relationships, an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. The Start Smart comprehensive premarital program prepares couples to navigate the challenges that often arise early in marriage.

START SMART IS ONE OF THE PREMIER PREMARITAL EDUCATION AND PREPARATION PROGRAMS IN THE COUNTRY.
WE OFFER TWO DIFFERENT WAYS TO COMPLETE THE COURSE:

OPTION 1: HAPPILY EVER AFTER MENTORING (Individual Couple Mentoring)

This option allows couples to be guided by a mentor couple through an in-depth, premarital inventory driven by current research that provides a unique profile of a couple’s relationship, measuring their strengths and growth areas in 13 critical categories needed for a successful marriage.

The couple can use our list of trained coaches to identify a mentor couple to guide them through up to five mentoring sessions* to process Start Smart inventory answers and workbook exercises through targeted discussion. *Please note: Couples should select a mentor before taking the inventory. Live the Life does not assign mentors.

Through the mentoring process, you will be taught specific communication and conflict-resolution skills crucial to a healthy marriage.

You can choose to print off a workbook or have a professionally printed workbook shipped to you. The workbook is packed with innovative exercises and meaningful content regarding expectations, finances, personalities and perspectives, sexuality and intimacy, communication, and conflict resolution.

CONTACT

OPTION 2: FIRST STEPS TO FOREVER CLASS (Hybrid Group and Individual Mentoring)

Experience the Start Smart curriculum in a group setting. The class will include guided instruction and exercises in a dynamic and fun environment providing you and your future spouse a memorable launch into your new life together.

This 4-hour class includes:

A workbook
Two skills for communication and conflict resolution
A personality assessment to help you understand your and your future spouse's perspectives on various facets of marriage
A group environment for you to get to know other couples in your area

With this option, you will also complete the premarital inventory and explore your results in four (4) follow-on mentoring with the mentor couple of your choice.

FIND A CLASS

Get a Discounted Texas Marriage License by Completing the Start Smart Program!

The State of Texas Department of Health and Human Services sponsors the Healthy Marriage Initiative. Live the Life's Start Smart curriculum is registered on the "Twogether in Texas" website. With the completion of 8 hours of Start Smart instruction and/or mentoring, graduating couples could qualify for:

Up to $60 off their marriage license fee
Waiver of the 72-hour waiting period

Note: Couples should consult their county clerk's office for the exact benefits offered for Healthy Marriage Initiative completion certificates.

HAVE QUESTIONS? EMAIL US AT SANANTONIO@LIVETHELIFE.ORG

START SMART TESTIMONIAL: