Yates was born in Colwyn Bay, north Wales. She was married to Irish musician Bob Geldof. Their children were Fifi Trixibelle Geldof (born 1983), Peaches Honeyblossom Geldof (1989–2014) and Little Pixie Geldof (born 1990). She was married to Geldof from 1986 until their divorce in 1996. She began a relationship with Australian musician Michael Hutchence. They had a daughter, Heavenly Hiraani Tiger Lily Hutchence Geldof (born 1996). In 1997, Hutchence killed himself. Soon after, Bob Geldof took full custody of their three children. 