That's 15yrs difference in age. We are appraching our 3rd wedding anniversary in OCtober and are closer then we've ever been. He can actually anser a question before I speak it!
My friends were surprised at first, as were his. But it wasn't very long before they noticed how we felt for each other. Now they are just happy for us!!
I say go for it. If friends say something then smile and say "Iknow, isn't it something!" and let it at that.
Oh, I have a friend who is 20 yrs older than her husband (2nd), they couldn't be happier!! And their frends are just happy that they are happy. It'll work out, you'll see!!