Sophia Michaels
Ina and Jeffrey Garten’s relationship is often viewed as supportive, but it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. In her autobiography, “Be Ready When the Luck Happens,” Ina disclosed that they experienced a separation during the 1970s.
The couple first crossed paths as teenagers, and Ina has commented that her true life began after meeting Jeffrey. Many fans might assume that their marriage was idyllic since Jeffrey supports Ina’s career immensely. However, a few years into their marriage, Ina decided to leave her job at the White House to open a grocery store, drastically altering their relationship dynamic and leading to tensions rooted in traditional gender roles that nearly resulted in divorce.
During a chat with People, Garten mentioned that during that time, she felt pressure to handle household duties while Jeffrey took care of the finances, roles she found bothersome. Unable to voice her frustrations clearly, she viewed their separation as a necessary “pause” to reassess her life goals. Jeffrey supported this decision, agreeing to the break without hesitation.
Ina suggested therapy for Jeffrey
Although Jeffrey agreed to the separation, he was eager to win Ina back. A few months later, they met again, and Ina asked him to attend therapy. Jeffrey promptly accepted this suggestion, which Ina saw as a positive sign. She noted, “His willingness to see the therapist was as significant as anything that might happen during their session.”
The therapy session proved beneficial, as Ina later indicated that Jeffrey grasped what needed to change in just one hour. They both began reconnecting and adapted their roles, even enduring periods apart when Jeffrey’s career took him to Tokyo. Despite his demanding job as an investment banker, he was eager to make accommodations for Ina’s grocery store.
Positive changes for Jeffrey Garten post-separation
While Ina was the catalyst for change in their marriage, Jeffrey also experienced newfound freedom once their relationship deviated from traditional norms. Ina noted in an interview with People that during their separation, Jeffrey realized he had neglected his desire to travel due to the expectations tied to being a husband.
This shift allowed Jeffrey to pursue job opportunities abroad, including stints in Tokyo and Hong Kong. Despite these untraditional living arrangements, Ina described their adaptations as “normal.” Looking back, both Ina and Jeffrey are grateful for the period apart, acknowledging it strengthened their bond. Ina stated, “Thank God I did … We wouldn’t have the relationship we have now if I hadn’t done it.” Their journey exemplifies the potential positives of navigating marital challenges.
