Ben and Marina Fogle’s love story began with a chance meeting while walking their dogs in London’s Hyde Park. After a whirlwind romance, they married in the quaint Portuguese village of Monsaraz in 2006. However, Marina later revealed that their first Christmas as a married couple left her worrying their marriage might not last.
In her column for The Times, Marina candidly opened up about the festive season that “didn’t start well.” Coming from a family known for practical gifts, Marina struggled to match Ben’s family’s tradition of delighting each other with unique, meaningful presents—like rare antiques from flea markets that symbolized deep understanding and affection.
After settling into their first home, Marina took a more practical approach to gift-giving, choosing items like a telephone set with an answering machine, remote-controlled lamp adapters, a toilet roll dispenser, and a doormat. When Ben opened his gifts, she recalled seeing a look of disappointment on his face.
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In contrast, Ben’s gift to Marina was a ring adorned with three emeralds, symbolizing himself and their two beloved dogs. Marina reflected, “Part of him had to be wondering how long this marriage would last.”
Despite that rocky start, Marina has experienced “some successes” over the years. One standout moment was commissioning artists Olly and Suzi to paint a portrait of Ben’s cherished dog, Inca. Tragically, Inca passed away just before Ben’s 40th birthday, prompting Marina to present the gift early as a heartfelt memorial. Ben was reportedly “lost for words.”
Marina describes Ben as “not easy to buy for” since he tends to purchase what he wants before Christmas arrives. She recalls that while he appreciates thoughtful gifts, he doesn’t always nail it—like the “beautifully crafted” collapsible bar he once gave her, which she “hated.”
Now faced with the challenge of finding presents for someone who seemingly has it all, Marina jokes about stashing unconventional items like a cleverly designed bread knife, an electric barbecue cleaner, and an in-flight neck support—though she suspects Ben will “hate” these and they’ll be tucked away, forgotten, in a few years.