In this edition of Couples Corner, we sit down with Garrett and Jacquelyn from the Christian band CLINE. Known for their faith-driven music and heartfelt lyrics, CLINE has been making waves with songs like "Worthy One" and "To Live as Christ" along with Garrett's brother Derek.
The duo share not only a musical journey but also a deep and enduring marriage. In this exclusive interview, Garrett and Jacquelyn open up about their love story, the keys to a strong marriage, and the joys and challenges of working together in the music industry.
You can watch and listen to the entire conversation in the video below or read on for a highlighted version, and click here to watch more conversations in this series.
How did your love story begin?
Garrett: We met in our church’s youth praise band. We’ve been at the same church for decades—Jacqueline for 30 years, me for about 25. We started out in a rock band together, dreaming of becoming the next [rock band] Switchfoot. I pursued Jacquelyn for a year, but she wouldn't date me at first because she was a year older. She was a freshman in college, and I was a senior in high school. But I didn’t give up, and eventually won her over.
Jacquelyn: We married young—at 21 and 22—thinking we were so mature. Looking back, we had a lot to learn, but we are, 14 years later, still figuring it out together.
What is your biggest piece of advice for a lasting marriage?
Garrett: God is the glue. He has to be first in everything. Our daily prayer is, “God, help me to love You most today.” When that’s in place, everything else follows.
Jacquelyn: We also have two practical rules: First, the word "divorce" is not in our vocabulary. We don’t joke about it or threaten it—it’s simply not an option. Second, we don’t quit—not on our marriage, parenting, or calling. Life is hard, but giving up isn’t on the table for us.
What’s it like working together in the music industry?
Jacquelyn: It takes a lot of patience and grace. Touring and ministry can be intense, and we are in it together. That means we’re both experiencing the highs and the struggles at the same time.
Garrett: We’ve learned that while we’re equal partners, we don’t have to share the same responsibilities. I handle the business side of things, and Jacqueline leads in ways I can’t. It’s about recognizing each other’s strengths.
How do you support each other’s personal growth?
Garrett: Spiritually, we encourage each other to go to therapy separately and together. Our community has an incredible Christian counselor who helps us stay grounded.
Jacquelyn: We also respect each other’s individual needs. I need to work out to feel balanced, and Garrett needs time alone to recharge. Supporting those things makes us stronger as a couple.
What’s been the most meaningful moment in your career together?
Garrett: When we recorded the live video for "Worthy One" at our home church. It was the moment where we felt like, “Wow, we’re really doing this. This dream God gave us is actually happening.”
Quickfire round! Who’s the better…
Cook? Garrett—he makes a great salmon.
Driver? Garrett—he drove us across the country on tour.
Funnier? Garrett—Jacquelyn is more serious.
Most romantic? Garrett—Jacquelyn may or may not have forgotten our anniversary date in the past.
Most competitive? Jacquelyn—if she decides to do something, she will do it, no matter what.
Who said “I love you” first? Probably Garrett.
What advice do you have for couples considering working together in Christian music?
Jacquelyn: Have grace for each other. This industry is tough, and you’ll face challenges at the same time. Be patient and know you won’t always have equal workloads, but you’re equally important.
Garrett: And don’t be afraid to take breaks. Your relationship is more important than any career move.
Final Thoughts
Garrett and Jacquelyn's journey is a testament to faith, perseverance, and love. Whether through their music or their personal lives, they remain committed to each other and to God. You can follow their journey on social media @ClineMusic and listen to ClineCast for more insights into their life and ministry.
Janice Rigel is a Christian author, speaker, podcast host, comedian, and everyone's bestie. She can be found at JourneyWithJanice.com. OpenAI's ChatGPT provided some assistance with this article.
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