Yes real snow is very different.
It's not unreasonable to be a bit apprehensive but honestly I'm sure you'll have a great time.
What's key however is having the right kit.
If you're cold it can be miserable.
I don't mean you have to go mad on top of the range gear, but do invest in some thermal leggings/polo neck top (I buy the M&S ones - don't need to expensive ski ones) and goggles that don't steam up.
Don't buy an all in one ski suit - as a woman they are a nightmare when you need the loo and the floor is wet from ski boots (and other unmentionables).
As for boots, they need to be supportive and your foot/ankle shouldn't be able to wriggle about, but they shouldn't hurt. That suggests you have the wrong size and/or they've been done up incorrectly.
I assume you're hiring boots so make you wear the socks you'll be skiing in when you go to the hire shop (and buy enough of the same socks to wear for the time you'll be there). Getting fitted with the wrong socks can make a big difference.
Also when you try the boots on you must try both feet and then if they feel uncomfortable/rubbing/squeezing try another pair.
When you find ones that seem comfortable wear them for at least 5 mins (ideally 10) and walk around (yes they are hard to walk in, but I just mean potter around the shop upright). Boots fit differently when you're sitting vs upright.
Imho good fitting boots are one of the most important things when skiing. Poorly fitting boots, aside from hurting can ruin your technique and make learning much harder.
Other advice - don't push yourself too hard. Try having morning lessons, meeting DH for lunch then maybe ski together on the beginners slopes for an hour and then go back (your DH can stay out if he wants obviously).
A lot of the ski resorts have other activities (a lot of hotels have pools and even spas - if yours doesn't there will be one on the resort). There's shopping centres, coffee shops, gyms, bowling, ice sports, cinemas etc etc
You'll be using muscles you possibly haven't before so take time out to get used to it by not skiing all day (unless you want too!).
Honestly it will be fun. The views are incredible and it's much easier to learn on proper snow and longer runs where you don't reach the bottom as soon as you feel you're about to "get it".