Theyoriginally meton the set ofAll My Children, playing each other’s love interests on the show.
It wasn’t long before real life started to mimic set life.
After a year of dating, Ripa and Consuelos eloped to Vegas on May 1, 1996.
Over the years, they have shared the secrets to their happy union.
I spoke with therapistKimberly Hershensonabout Ripa and Consuelos' marriage and the positive takeaways from their marital success.
Communicating often
Communication, especially listening, is key to any successful relationship.
It is the small moments of communication that can make a big difference.
If your partner had a long day, give them a massage.
These small gestures show your partner they are loved and supported."
This punch in of daily communication can help couples feel connected and united.
She toldPeoplein 2013, “…it’s OK to fight about things.
We’re secure with each other.
Hershenson suggests focusing on emotions rather than placing blame when arguing.
She says, “Fight fairly.
Even if the fighting gets heated, Hershenson recommends never dropping the d-word divorce during a fight.
“Do not threaten divorce no matter how upset you get,” she states.
Every argument, every disagreement, seems like the end of the universe and it really isn’t.”
Knowing that a fight is not the end of a relationship can help a couple weather trying times.
Hershenson encourages couples to keep their relationship drama-free and she suggests maintaining privacy between partners.
“Set boundaries with others, including in-laws and children.
Do not share personal details of your relationship with others such as fights or your sex life.”
Offering support
Ripa has made it very clear how much she and Consuelos support one another.
She toldGood Housekeepingin 2010, “When you marry somebody, you really are life partners.
What happens to them happens to you.
So we feel things very deeply for each other.”
With Consuelos' support, Ripa agreed to join Regis Philbin onLive!
With Regis and Kellyin2001, despite her worries.
This bang out of support can strengthen a marriage.
Hershenson reiterates this important point.
She says, “Offer support.
Expressing gratitude
Ripa adores Consuelos and sang his praises when she was interviewed byMarlo Thomasin 2012.
Ripa expressed her deep gratitude to Consuelos, sharing that he is a wonderful husband and father.
She said, “He’s my friend.
This punch in of appreciation can lead to a meaningful bond for couples.
Saying thank you often will lead to a happier union.
She toldRedbookin 2009,“A date night for us is watchingTop Chef.
A date night for us is getting our kids asleep before 9:30!
It doesn’t have to lead to anything, although usually it does.”
A weekly date night can help a couple stay connected and keep the intimacy going.
Set the table, put out candles and have a delicious meal together.”
Date nights are a great time to reconnect, especially if partners have children or demanding careers.
Regular sex
Along with a weekly date night, regular sex, can help sustain a marriage.
OnWatch What Happens Livein 2016, Andy Cohen brought up the topic of sex with Consuelos.
Consuelos coyly responded, “We keep it going!
I’m bananas over my wife.”
Even small gestures of affection are beneficial.
Hershenson says, “Physically touch each other.
Whether it’s a kiss hello or goodbye, snuggling on the couch, or holding hands.
Even non-sexual touching builds connection between partners.”
Spending time together with their kids creates a sense of family unity.
Ripa toldGood Housekeepingin 2010, “It’s important to have that time together as a family.
We have some very deep conversations.”
Spending quality time as a family is a great opportunity to check in with everyone.
Have a weekly discussion about the high point and low point of everyone’s week.”
This focused time will build a sense of unity and trust for all members of the family.
Or for doing things independently, like taking a weekend biking trip with his racing friends.
He doesn’t need to take me everywhere or do everything with me.
I’m very much about us having our own separate time.”
This time apart will help partners maintain a sense of independence.
Hershenson agrees with Ripa’s statement.
She suggests, “Be independent.
Do a brunch or night out with friends every so often.
double-check you maintain individuality in the relationship.”
Spending time apart will foster a sense of balance in the relationship.
She toldMarlo Thomasin 2013, “I’ve had a crush on him since the day I met him.
I think having a crush on someone is important.”
Hershenson suggests incorporating dating rituals into a marriage.
Text your partner in the middle of the day to let them know you’re thinking of them.
Buy them their favorite treat as a surprise.
Kiss them goodbye and say you’ve got the option to’t wait to see them later."
Dating can be fun and there is no reason why dating rituals need to stop when a couple marries.
They make marriage look good!
