Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade Share Marriage Rule to Keep Relationship Strong

The couple, who tied the knot in 2014, have a simple secret to maintaining their closeness despite busy schedules.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Actress Gabrielle Union revealed the key rule she and her husband, former NBA star Dwyane Wade, have to keep their marriage strong - they "laugh their asses off" together at all times. Union and Wade, who will celebrate their 12th anniversary this year, also make sure to "stay connected" and surround themselves with people who believe in their relationship. The couple briefly broke up in 2013 due to the challenges of their conflicting schedules, but they eventually figured out how to make their busy lives work for their family.

Why it matters

Union and Wade's story highlights the importance of open communication, compromise, and finding ways to maintain intimacy in a marriage, even when faced with demanding careers and hectic schedules. Their willingness to work through their issues and find a solution that works for them serves as an inspiring example for other couples navigating the ups and downs of long-term relationships.

The details

Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade first crossed paths at a Super Bowl party in 2007, though Union wasn't initially interested in Wade at the time. They later went public with their relationship in 2010, after Union had gone through a difficult breakup. In 2013, the couple briefly split due to the challenges of their conflicting schedules, but they eventually figured out how to stay close despite their busy lives. Union and Wade tied the knot in 2014 and welcomed their daughter, Kaavia, in 2018. The couple is now part of a blended family of six, with Wade's three other children from previous relationships.

  • Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade first met at a Super Bowl party in 2007.
  • Union and Wade went public with their relationship in the summer of 2010.
  • The couple briefly broke up in early 2013 due to their conflicting schedules.
  • Union and Wade got engaged by the end of 2013 and tied the knot on August 30, 2014.
  • Union and Wade welcomed their daughter, Kaavia, in 2018.

The players

Gabrielle Union

An American actress who has starred in numerous films and television shows, including "Bring It On" and "Being Mary Jane".

Dwyane Wade

A former professional basketball player who spent the majority of his NBA career with the Miami Heat, winning three championships.

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What they’re saying

“We laugh our asses off. At all times, we laugh.”

— Gabrielle Union (PEOPLE)

“We just stay connected and we surround ourselves with people who believe in our marriage as much as we do.”

— Gabrielle Union (PEOPLE)

“When Dwyane and I broke up briefly in 2013, it was because of distance and scheduling. I missed some quality togetherness we desperately needed ... Moving forward, I decided my work schedule has to make sense for our family.”

— Gabrielle Union (Glamour)

The takeaway

Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade's story demonstrates the importance of open communication, compromise, and finding ways to maintain intimacy in a marriage, even when faced with demanding careers and hectic schedules. Their willingness to work through their issues and find a solution that works for their family serves as an inspiring example for other couples navigating the challenges of long-term relationships.