In the glittering world of high society, few names evoke as much intrigue as Andrea Hissom. Known for her elegance, grace, and marriage to billionaire casino mogul Steve Wynn, she has carved out a unique place in the upper echelons of American society while maintaining her British roots.
Who is Andrea Hissom?
Andrea Danenza Hissom represents a fascinating blend of European sophistication and American glamour. Born on January 1, 1970, in the United Kingdom, she emerged from a family deeply connected to the hospitality industry. Her life story reads like a modern fairy tale, yet beneath the surface lies a woman of substance who has navigated the complexities of high society with remarkable poise.
Today, at 55 years old, Andrea stands as a prominent figure in both Las Vegas and Palm Beach social circles. Her journey from British socialite to the wife of one of America’s most influential casino developers has captivated public attention for over a decade. Yet she remains an enigmatic figure, carefully balancing public appearances with a fiercely guarded private life.
Early Life and Family Roots
Andrea’s family background provides important context to her later life. She was born to Victor Danenza, a British financier whose career was marked by both success and controversy, and Arlene Novack, who passed away years ago. The family’s connection to the hospitality world runs deep through her great-uncle, Ben Novack, the legendary developer of the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach Hotel.
Growing up in Hertfordshire, England, Andrea received her education in London, where she developed an early interest in fashion and design. This passion would later inform her impeccable sense of style, which has become one of her defining characteristics in social circles. Her upbringing in Britain instilled in her a sense of refinement and discretion that continues to define her public persona.
Her first chapter as an adult began with marriage to Robert David Hissom, an American banker who worked as a financial analyst for Aspen Capital Partners Ltd. in Europe. This union produced two sons who would become central to her life story.
A Fateful Encounter: Meeting Steve Wynn
The year 2008 marked a turning point in Andrea’s life when she met Steve Wynn on the sun-drenched French Riviera. The meeting occurred while Wynn was still married to his first wife, Elaine, though they were separated at the time. The connection between Andrea and Steve was immediate, sparking a relationship that would soon capture headlines across America.
Their romance became public knowledge in April 2009 when photographers spotted them enjoying an intimate dinner at the Polo Lounge in the Beverly Hills Hotel. The pairing of the elegant British socialite and the powerful American billionaire created an immediate media sensation. Despite their 21-year age difference, the couple appeared genuinely devoted to one another.
The relationship experienced a brief separation in late 2009, leading many to speculate that the romance had run its course. However, by June 2010, Andrea and Steve had reconciled, making a public appearance together at the Sinatra Family Estates during a romantic wine dinner at the Encore Beach Club. This reunion signaled their commitment to building a life together.
“America’s Royal Wedding”: A Lavish Affair
April 30, 2011, will forever be remembered as the day Andrea Hissom became Andrea Wynn. The timing was no coincidence. Their wedding took place the same weekend that Prince William married Kate Middleton in London, and the American press quickly dubbed it “America’s Royal Wedding.” The comparison was not entirely unwarranted given the spectacular nature of the celebration.
Steve Wynn spared no expense, investing one million dollars in a Hollywood-style ceremony at his Encore resort in Las Vegas. The guest list read like a who’s who of entertainment and business, with 1,000 distinguished attendees including Sylvester Stallone, Hugh Jackman, Steven Spielberg, Celine Dion, Garth Brooks, and Donald Trump. Perhaps most notably, legendary actor and director Clint Eastwood served as best man, lending additional gravitas to the occasion.
Andrea’s wedding gown became a topic of considerable discussion. Featuring elaborate lace sleeves and a plunging neckline, it bore a striking resemblance to Kate Middleton’s dress, though the similarity was likely coincidental given the timing. The headpiece she wore also echoed the Duchess of Cambridge’s choice, adding to the royal wedding comparisons.
The celebrations extended over three days, beginning with a poolside white party that coincided with the British royal wedding. The main event, dubbed the “Grand Celebration,” took place in the Encore Ballroom and was choreographed by Kenny Ortega, famous for directing the High School Musical franchise. Five hundred guests were flown in early to participate in the festivities, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and excitement.
Life in the Public Eye: Art, Philanthropy, and Society
Since her marriage to Steve Wynn, Andrea has become a fixture at high-profile events throughout the United States. Her presence is regularly noted at art exhibitions, charity galas, and social fundraisers, particularly in Las Vegas and Palm Beach. She moves comfortably in these circles, her polished appearance and gracious demeanor making her a sought-after guest.
The art world holds particular significance for the Wynns. Steve’s extensive collection includes works by some of history’s most celebrated artists, and Andrea has embraced this passion. She frequently appears at gallery openings and art auctions, demonstrating a genuine appreciation for fine art that extends beyond mere social obligation. Her involvement has helped bridge her sons’ creative pursuits with the Wynn family’s artistic interests.
In late 2024, the couple made headlines with their purchase of a property in West Palm Beach, Florida, for nearly thirteen million dollars. Plans for the site include developing a modern mansion, with Andrea’s sons Alex and Nick expected to contribute to the project. This move underscores the family’s growing connection to South Florida’s vibrant social scene.
Andrea’s style has become one of her calling cards. Whether attending formal galas or more casual daytime events, she consistently presents herself with elegance and sophistication. Her fashion choices tend toward classic silhouettes and refined details, reflecting her European sensibility while embracing the glamour of her American lifestyle.
A Blended Family: Motherhood and Stepmotherhood
Family remains central to Andrea’s identity despite her high-profile public life. Her two sons from her first marriage have grown into accomplished young men with their own pursuits. Nicholas, known as Nick, has emerged as a British recording artist and model. He also founded Aktion Art, an art gallery based in Palm Beach, demonstrating the family’s continued connection to the art world.
Nick’s education at the prestigious Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland and the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied History, Anthropology, and Art, prepared him well for his current endeavors. His work bridges the creative and business worlds, much like his stepfather’s career has done. Alexander, known as Alex, maintains a lower public profile but remains an important part of the family dynamic.
Andrea also embraced her role as stepmother to Steve’s two daughters from his first marriage, Kevyn and Gillian Wynn. Blending these families required sensitivity and grace, qualities that Andrea appears to possess in abundance. The family’s ability to maintain harmony despite the complex circumstances speaks to her diplomatic skills and genuine warmth.
The relationship between Andrea’s sons and their stepfather has flourished over the years. Their collaboration on the West Palm Beach property project demonstrates the trust and mutual respect that has developed within this blended family. This integration represents one of Andrea’s quieter but more significant achievements.
The Woman Behind the Headlines: A Private Life
Despite her visibility in society pages and at public events, Andrea Hissom has managed to maintain a remarkable degree of privacy. She rarely grants interviews and has never publicly commented on the controversies that have occasionally surrounded her husband. This discretion reflects both her British upbringing and a conscious choice to protect her personal life from excessive scrutiny.
When Steve Wynn faced allegations of sexual misconduct in 2018, leading to his resignation as chairman of the Republican National Committee, Andrea remained silent. Her refusal to engage with the media frenzy demonstrated a commitment to privacy that has characterized her approach to public life. She has consistently chosen dignity over drama, allowing her presence rather than her words to speak for her.
Andrea divides her time between New York City, Las Vegas, and increasingly, Palm Beach. Each location offers different advantages and reflects different aspects of her multifaceted life. New York provides cultural richness and relative anonymity, Las Vegas connects her to Steve’s business empire, and Palm Beach offers a vibrant social scene and proximity to her sons’ endeavors.
Her daily life, while undoubtedly luxurious, appears focused on family, art, and select philanthropic causes. She attends charity events regularly, though she tends to support causes quietly rather than seeking recognition. This approach aligns with a certain European sensibility about wealth and giving, where discretion is valued over publicity.
More Than Just a Socialite
Andrea Hissom’s story transcends the simple narrative of a woman who married well. While her union with Steve Wynn certainly elevated her public profile, she brought her own heritage, style, and substance to the relationship. Her family’s connection to the hospitality industry through Ben Novack provided her with an understanding of that world long before she met Steve.
She represents a particular type of modern woman who navigates multiple worlds with apparent ease. European by birth and sensibility, American by choice and residence, she embodies a cosmopolitan ideal. Her ability to maintain her identity while adapting to new circumstances demonstrates both flexibility and strength of character.
The grace with which she has handled the challenges inherent in her position deserves recognition. Being married to a controversial billionaire brings inevitable scrutiny, yet Andrea has managed to preserve her dignity and privacy. She has supported her husband while maintaining her own identity, a delicate balance that many in similar positions struggle to achieve.
As she continues her journey through the upper reaches of American society, Andrea Hissom remains an intriguing figure. She offers a glimpse into a world of extraordinary privilege while maintaining enough mystery to fuel continued interest. Her story reminds us that behind every public figure lies a private person navigating their own complex reality with whatever grace and wisdom they can muster.
