Zara Tindall has opened up about what keeps her marriage strong after more than two decades together, revealing that accepting life's imperfections is key to their happiness.
The Secret to Lasting Love
The 44-year-old daughter of Princess Anne and her husband Mike Tindall, 47, shared their relationship wisdom during a rare date night at London's annual Beauty Awards. The former rugby star admitted that such glitzy events aren't their typical choice for romance.
'We are very low key,' Mike told the Daily Mail. 'This wouldn't be our ideal date night.' Instead, the couple prefers simpler pleasures at home with 'food, telly and a glass of vino'.
Zara, who has been with Mike for 21 years and married for 14, explained their approach to marriage: 'Nothing runs smoothly ever. You've got to accept that in life. It's a work-in-progress [but] you've got to have fun.'
Family Life and Christmas Plans
The mother-of-three also revealed the family's festive arrangements, confirming they will join King Charles, Queen Camilla and other royals at Sandringham for Christmas celebrations.
'We are so lucky, Christmas is always amazing,' Zara said. 'We get to do a lot of fun things, and the place looks amazing. We will see everyone.'
The couple will also attend the Princess of Wales' annual Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey on December 5 with their three children: daughters Mia Grace, 11, and Lena Elizabeth, 7, and son Lucas Philip, 4.
Mike reflected that 'kids are the biggest challenge that ever come your way' during marriage, noting that 'having three of them, everyone is doing different things.'
Maintaining Connection Through Challenges
The couple, who first met during the 2003 Rugby World Cup in Australia, demonstrated their enduring affection on the red carpet with Mike wrapping his arm around Zara's waist as they lovingly gazed into each other's eyes.
Mike joked that he's learned Zara is 'always right' over the course of their long-term relationship. The former England rugby player also firmly ruled out any participation in Strictly Come Dancing, citing concerns about the so-called 'Strictly curse'.
'Just say we can't do the Strictly curse, we are not going on it,' Mike stated protectively. 'We are not taking the risk. We are very happy.'
Zara noted that even finding time to watch television together can be challenging due to their busy schedules. While she catches up on Netflix's The Diplomat, Mike follows I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!, supporting broadcaster Ruby Wax.
The Olympic equestrian revealed they bond over sports and share a love of dancing, though their red carpet appearance at the Beauty Awards marked a departure from their usual low-key style.
Zara dazzled in a pearl-encrusted Rebecca Vallance dress with black heels and pearl drop earrings, while Mike looked sharp in a navy double-breasted blazer with distinctive red and gold buttons.
When asked about her beauty routine, Zara confessed to being a fan of LED masks, mentioning she'd recently received one at a dinner party. 'It's the only goody bag I've ever taken home,' she said, adding that she often falls asleep during facials.
The event, hosted by former Spice Girl Mel B, saw the Tindalls leaving with goody bags in hand, demonstrating that even royals appreciate a thoughtful gift.
