Influencer Lorna Luxe Reveals Unconventional Secrets to Her 16-Year Marriage
Social media influencer Lorna Luxe, 43, has opened up about the unique dynamics that have sustained her marriage to retired banker John Andrews, 64, for over sixteen years. The couple, who have a notable twenty-one-year age gap, share insights into their relationship, blending romance with practical arrangements, all while facing the poignant reality of John's terminal cancer diagnosis.
Romantic Gestures and Financial Beginnings
Lorna, a former air hostess, recalls that when they first met, she was earning modestly as cabin crew. John, however, set the tone for their romance by surprising her with gifts at the end of their dates. 'The first few months we got together, he would always give me a gift at the end of the date,' she said. 'Usually make-up, sometimes skincare—I think he is the reason I started using ceramide. I was cabin crew then so I didn't earn much money. I was allowed to take him on trips with me, so that's how we dated in the beginning.'
This generosity extended beyond small tokens. Early in their relationship, John surprised Lorna by purchasing their first home. 'He was helping me flat hunt, and as soon as I turned up, I thought, I can't afford this—and then he gave me a little smile and said "I've bought this for us" and that's when I knew he was the one,' she revealed. To celebrate fifteen years together, he upgraded her diamond engagement ring to a stunning fifteen-carat version, symbolising their enduring bond.
Practical Arrangements and Relationship Dynamics
One of Lorna's non-negotiables for keeping the spark alive is having separate bathrooms in their iconic Ghost House in Warwickshire. 'I don't know if this is an "us" thing, but me and John don't share bathrooms. Maybe this is why we've lasted so long. He's not even allowed in my bathroom. Just kidding,' she joked, highlighting how personal space contributes to their harmony.
She emphasises the importance of understanding each other's love languages, noting that John's is physical touch. 'I always make sure to cuddle him in the morning,' she said, adding a rule to 'never go to bed angry.' Lorna believes in maintaining a balance of respect without being overly affectionate. 'It might be controversial, but I think it's important to not be too lovey-dovey with your man. I show him respect but I am not too overly loving. I let him love me. He is the one who has to worship me and not the other way around. What HE needs to feel is respected and supported, and that dynamic really works for us.'
Coping with Terminal Cancer and Living Fully
The couple's relationship takes on a deeper significance due to John's terminal cancer diagnosis. They are committed to living life to the fullest, indulging in posh hotel stays and 'dirty weekends' in far-flung destinations. 'One dynamic in our relationship that has never changed is that he organises everything. I just have to turn up and ideally look cute,' Lorna shared. 'He's been treating me like a princess since the day we met. I'm very happy about that. He will always find a way to surprise me; I could write a book on how John gets hotel upgrades.'
Lorna stresses the value of emotional independence. 'You could have all the money in the world and be self-sufficient, but if you are relying on your man to be happy, you will always be miserable,' she explained. 'Because he knows I am OK without him, it does kind of make him obsessed with me, and that's why he holds on so tight.' She also prioritises self-care, stating, 'Always look and feel your best. I always invest in looking good and taking care of myself. Me getting dolled up in the morning isn't me worrying that he's going to cheat on me if I don't. You look good, you feel good—and when you feel good, you are just a better person. I always want to be a better person for John.'
Business Success and Shared Lifestyle
The couple now co-own the fashion business L.A.Space, which has funded their lifestyle over the last five years since it took off. Interestingly, they famously ran up £300,000 in debt to fund Lorna's influencer career initially, but now reap the rewards of their success. They maintain a joint account, yet John always pays the bill when they go out. 'John organises all our trips, and him paying the bill at dinner is a non-negotiable for me. It comes out of the same bank account, but this way it feels like he is stepping up,' Lorna said.
Choosing not to have children, the couple focuses their disposable income on each other. 'We make a point to treat ourselves,' she noted. 'Whether that's a date night, or a gift, or him ironing my clothes. I think the reason why we've lasted so long together is because we are equal partners in everything that we do.' This partnership, blended with romance, practicality, and resilience, defines their enduring marriage.
