Gemma Atkinson says marrying her fiance Gorka Marquez "won't change" how much love she has for him - but she will be taking his name.
Gemma Atkinson will take Gorka Marquez's name when they marry but her love 'won't change'
The former 'Emmerdale' actress admitted getting married is "much more significant" for the 'Strictly Come Dancing' pro dancer, who has told her he will "love [her] more" when they are husband and wife.
During a conversation with dating coach Abi Blears on 'The Overshare' podcast it was suggested that research indicates "women don't need marriage or relationships quite as much as men do", and Gemma replied: "I do get that. I genuinely do.
"No, because I think sometimes women are more independent than their men within a marriage.
"I think men like to be needed and wanted, it’s a nice feeling to know that someone relies on you, someone depends on you, someone wants you ... maybe I'm just speaking about me and Gorka.
"In my case, we will get married, but it won't change how I feel for him.
"I love him so much anyway, whereas he sees it as I'm going to love her so much more. And I think how can you love me more?
"I mean, nothing's going to change other than will have the same name. But it's so much more significant for him."
Gemma also admitted Gorka - who she has four-year-old daughter Mia and four-month-old baby Thiago with - cannot wait to share the same name as her, but he would be happy to tie the knot in a registry office "tomorrow" rather than have a big bash.
Asked if Gorka is interested in having a big wedding, Gemma replied: "No, he'd go to a registry office tomorrow and do it.
"He just says, 'I would love the fact that we've all got the same name. It's a family unit,' where I see, the fact that we've had two babies is more of a commitment than just me having his name."
The couple got engaged on Valentine's Day 2021, after Gorka popped the question.
Gemma wrote on social media at the time: "Valentine’s forever ... Of course I said yes (sic)"
Gorka shared online: "The best day with my forever Valentine’s ... I asked and she said YES!!!!!! ... Happy Valentine’s Day everyone (sic)"
The Overshare with Gemma Atkinson is available to listen to on all podcast platforms.
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