Martin and Shirlie Kemp share tips to keep romantic spark alive
In a hilarious new video, the pair talk about prioritising fun, putting the tech away and not taking each other for granted.
Together since their early 20s, the Kemps were members of two of the world’s biggest bands –Spandau Ballet and Wham! – and went on to raise two children, musician and singer Harley Moon, 34, and broadcaster Roman, 31.
Known for embarrassing their kids with public displays of affection, the celebrity couple is looking to help other couples get their romance back on track with a fun instructional video.
Martin and Shirlie teamed up with up with easyJet Holidays to mark the launch of its ‘Rekindle the Romance’ package, which allows couples to add day spa packages, a romantic dinner, and champagne on arrival to selected packages.
Martin said: “It’s so easy to let the romance fizzle, especially when your adult children are calling you every five minutes for advice on how to turn on the oven or you’re trying to keep on top of after school activities, playdates, and the never-ending pile of washing up.”
Shirlie added: “We go on multiple trips a year to stay connected, so we’ve loved this campaign and sharing how we’ve kept the passion alive for over 36 years.”
It comes after a poll found the top ‘passion killers’ for couples with kids include a lack of sleep, messy homes – and never-ending meal planning.
The study of 1,750 couples with children found endless to-do lists including housework, entertaining children and DIY jobs had an impact on romance. Eight in 10 believe parenting duties affect the romantic spark.
Only one in five (20%) go on date nights with their partner, even though nine in 10 (91%) agree ‘couple time’ is essential for their relationship.
It also emerged that on average, parents spend three hours a month watching kids shows, two hours clearing up toys, one hour and 45 minutes cleaning up food messes and three hours grocery shopping.
Many parents are keen to reignite the spark, with two-thirds (62%) planning to book a quality mini break together. As half of couples (49%) admit they are the best versions of themselves on holidays, with 48% taking the time to enjoy a nice meal out together.
They do, however, find it difficult to choose the right destination. The most popular destinations for a romantic getaway are Sorrento, Santorini, Nice, Madeira and the Algarve.
Matt Callaghan, COO at easyJet Holidays said: “Parents are multitaskers and tend to put the kids first which leaves little room for romance.
“We’re excited to offer parents the chance to reconnect and reinvigorate their relationships with our Autumn getaways, so couples can truly unwind without the usual distractions of daily life.”
