" She ’s just classy ! "

After nearly two decades of marriage, Joel Madden still can’t help but gush about his wifeNicole Richieand the family they created together.

During a recent interview onThe Drew Barrymore Show, Joel opened up about his relationship and how they’ve made it work throughout the years.

“Nicole is a real — the more you know her, the more you love her,” Joel said. “It takes time to get to know her, but she’s just classy.”

Joel went on to compliment Nicole, Drew, andCameron Diaz(who’s married to his twin brotherBenji Madden) for being “really strong, amazing, powerful women” and for the way they’ve handled their careers in a male-dominated industry.

“I’ve watched Nicole navigate — 17 years now, we’ve been together.”

The two began dating back in 2006 and tied the knot in 2010. Joel and Nicole share two children together — their daughter Harlow Winter Kate, 15, and their son Sparrow James Midnight, 14. Joel admitted how “lucky” he feels to be their dad and Nicole’s husband.

“I always tell my kids, ‘You make it so easy to be a dad.’ They’re just good kids,” theInk Masterstar said. “They’re great, and I think they’re like their mom.”

But making it to 17 years of marriage wasn’t an easy walk in the park. Joel revealed it took work, both individually and collectively.

“We don’t pretend to be perfect either,” Joel added. “I think we’re all human. We go to therapy — lots of therapy.”

It doesn’t get any cuter than that! To learn more about Joel, be sure to check out the full clip fromThe Drew Barrymore Showbelow:

Closeup of Joel Madden and Nicole Richie on the red carpet smiling for photographers

Paramount

Closeup of Joel Madden

Closeup of Nicole Richie and Joel Madden

Lionel Richie, Nicole Richie, Joel Madden, Cameron Diaz, and Benji Madden

Closeup of Joel Madden and Nicole Richie

Closeup of Joel Madden on the red carpet