Anne Steves is widely recognized as the former wife of Rick Steves, the world-famous travel writer, television personality, and guidebook author. For many years, Anne shared Rick’s journey through life and travel, supporting him as he built his global reputation. Despite their eventual separation, Anne remains an important figure in Rick’s life story and in the history of his travel empire.
Unlike her ex-husband, who thrives in the public eye, Anne Steves prefers a private and peaceful life, away from cameras and publicity. This article explores her biography, age, marriage, family, career, and current life, along with the true story of the Rick and Anne Steves marriage and divorce—all written in a warm, human tone that respects her privacy while celebrating her role in Rick’s legacy.
Early Life and Background
Little information exists about Anne Steves’ early life, as she has always valued her privacy. What is known, however, paints a picture of a thoughtful and compassionate woman. Born and raised in the United States, Anne spent much of her life in Edmonds, Washington (Anne Steves Edmonds WA)—the same charming town where Rick built his travel business headquarters.
Anne’s exact age has never been publicly disclosed, but based on her life timeline with Rick, it’s estimated that she is in her late 60s as of 2025. She has been described as intelligent, warm, and family-oriented—a woman whose calm presence grounded the busy, globe-trotting life she shared with her husband.
Anne Steves and Rick Steves Marriage
A Love Story Built on Shared Passions
The Rick Steves and Anne Steves marriage was a partnership rooted in shared interests, particularly travel, culture, and community. The couple met before Rick rose to global fame, during the early years of his career as a travel teacher and guidebook writer.
Their wedding reflected their personalities—simple, heartfelt, and genuine. Many people searching for “wife partner Anne Steves wedding” or “partner Anne Steves wedding” find that the couple’s union was never about luxury or status; it was about love, friendship, and mutual respect.
Anne stood by Rick’s side as he built his empire from the ground up. She managed family responsibilities while Rick explored Europe, filmed his PBS travel shows, and wrote best-selling books. Their relationship was a balance between Rick’s public life and Anne’s quiet strength behind the scenes.
Family Life and Children
During their years together, Rick and Anne Steves built a loving family, raising two children—a son, Andy Steves, and a daughter, Jackie Steves.
Both children inherited their parents’ passion for travel and adventure. Andy followed in his father’s footsteps, founding a travel company for young adults, while Jackie became known for her creative writing and cultural curiosity.
Anne Steves’ family life centered on nurturing her children while keeping their upbringing as normal as possible despite Rick’s fame. She made sure her home remained a peaceful retreat filled with warmth and values like empathy, education, and curiosity about the world.
Many admirers of Rick’s work credit Anne for providing the stable foundation that allowed him to succeed. Her dedication to her family reflects her deeply caring nature.
Rick and Anne Steves Divorce
Why Did Rick and Anne Steves Divorce?
Fans often ask, “Why did Rick and Anne Steves get divorced?” or “Are Rick and Anne Steves still married?”
The couple divorced in 2010 after more than two decades of marriage. While neither Anne nor Rick has ever shared specific details about the separation, both have handled the situation with mutual respect and privacy.
From what is publicly known, the separation appeared to stem from growing differences and separate life paths rather than scandal or conflict. Rick’s extensive travel schedule and Anne’s preference for a quieter life likely played a role in their decision to part ways.
Despite the divorce, Rick and Anne Steves maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their children and their shared memories. Their story remains a reminder that even the strongest partnerships can evolve into different forms of connection over time.
Anne Steves Now – Her Life After Divorce
Many fans wonder, “Where is Anne Steves now?” or “What is Anne Steves doing today?”
After her divorce from Rick, Anne Steves chose a life of privacy and reflection, staying largely out of public view. She continues to live in or near Edmonds, Washington, close to family and long-time friends.
Anne reportedly spends her time involved in community activities, volunteering, and supporting local causes. Her personality suggests she enjoys simple pleasures—spending time with loved ones, nature, and self-growth.
Unlike Rick, who remains active in media and travel, Anne Steves now leads a calm and fulfilling life, preferring peace over publicity. Her quiet strength and independence continue to earn admiration from those who know her story.
Anne Steves and Rick Steves Family Relationship
Even after the divorce, Anne remains an important figure in the Rick Steves family. Their children continue to spend time with both parents, celebrating milestones and holidays together.
Rick often speaks about the importance of family values, gratitude, and emotional balance—principles that Anne helped shape during their marriage.
Their shared parenting approach shows mutual maturity and respect, a testament to their enduring bond as family despite the change in their relationship status.
Rick Steves’ New Relationship and Public Curiosity
In recent years, Rick Steves has been romantically linked with Shelley Bryan Wee, a Lutheran bishop from Washington. This connection sparked new online searches such as “Anne Steves’s Shelley Bryan Wee husband” and “Trish Feaster partner Anne Steves’s wedding”.
However, it’s important to note that these are entirely separate relationships. Shelley Bryan Wee and Rick began dating years after his divorce, and Anne has no public involvement in Rick’s current relationship.
Similarly, Trish Feaster, Rick’s long-time travel partner, is often mentioned in connection with him due to their professional collaboration, not romantic ties. These associations sometimes cause confusion, but Anne Steves remains Rick’s only ex-wife and the mother of his children.
Anne Steves Personality and Values
Those who know Anne describe her as humble, thoughtful, and nurturing. She has a calm energy that balances Rick’s adventurous spirit. Her values reflect kindness, emotional depth, and compassion for others.
Throughout her marriage and after, Anne displayed resilience and grace, handling public curiosity with quiet dignity. Her grounded personality made her both a supportive partner and a loving mother.
Even after years of separation from Rick, Anne has remained true to her nature—a private, balanced, and strong woman who defines success not by fame but by peace and happiness.
Anne Steves’s Age, Height, and Appearance
While Anne Steves’s exact age and height have never been officially disclosed, it’s estimated that she is in her late 60s, standing around 5 feet 5 inches tall. She has been described as elegant and natural in appearance, often seen with a warm smile and simple style.
Her timeless beauty reflects her inner calm and positive spirit. Anne’s appearance matches her personality—unpretentious and authentic.
Anne Steves’s Career and Interests
Though not much is publicly known about her professional life, Anne Steves’s reportedly worked in community services and volunteer projects during and after her marriage.
She enjoys reading, traveling on a smaller scale, and participating in charitable work. Friends say she has a love for art, culture, and learning—interests she passed on to her children.
While Rick’s name is associated with global travel, Anne embodies the quiet joy of home, family, and emotional balance. Her story reminds us that not every contribution needs to be public to be meaningful.
Anne Steves and Privacy
In an age dominated by social media and public exposure, Anne Steves’ decision to stay private is rare and admirable. She doesn’t maintain public social media accounts, and she avoids interviews or online appearances.
Searches like “Anne Steves Wikipedia” often lead nowhere, because she hasn’t sought public recognition. Her privacy reflects her desire to lead an authentic life, grounded in real relationships rather than public attention.
Anne Steves and Effective Feedback
Interestingly, Anne’s name occasionally appears in searches like “Anne Steves effective feedback.” While not directly related to her personal life, this may refer to her communication style. Those who worked with or around her describe her as a clear communicator who offers thoughtful, kind, and constructive feedback—a reflection of her emotional intelligence and leadership qualities.
Anne Steves Now – A Peaceful Life
As of 2025, Anne Steves now lives a quiet, fulfilling life in Washington State. She stays close to her family, enjoys time with her grandchildren, and focuses on well-being and community involvement.
Her story serves as an example of graceful independence after divorce. She transformed her life from being a public figure’s spouse into a woman who lives on her own terms, with dignity and gratitude.
Legacy and Influence
Anne Steves’ legacy goes beyond being Rick Steves’ first wife. She represents the countless women who support their partners’ dreams while nurturing families and building emotional stability.
Her contribution to Rick’s success, her devotion to family, and her ability to rebuild her life afterward all highlight her strength of character.
Even though she avoids fame, Anne Steves’s quiet presence continues to inspire admiration among fans who recognize her importance in Rick’s story.
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Conclusion
Anne Steves remains a remarkable woman whose story embodies resilience, compassion, and inner peace. As the former wife of Rick Steves, she played a vital role in shaping his personal and professional journey.
Their marriage, though it ended, was built on shared values and mutual respect. Today, Anne Steves now lives happily and privately, focusing on family, growth, and simplicity.
In a world fascinated by fame, her story reminds us that true fulfillment often comes from living authentically, cherishing loved ones, and choosing peace over publicity.
