1. Real Weddings

Matt & Ryan: A Modern Wedding in Monterey Bay, CA

Matt and Ryan met online, and by their first date, Matt felt so comfortable in Ryan’s presence that he knew the two were meant for each other. “Let’s

Matt and Ryan met online, and by their first date, Matt felt so comfortable in Ryan’s presence that he knew the two were meant for each other. “Let’s just say I went in for the kill in my own charming way!” says Matt. His straightforward approach worked, and soon the two were an item. The Groom Ryan F. Lawton, 37, director of quality at a health care organization The Groom Matthew P. Morgan, 38, voiceover TV/radio producer The Date February 16 As they dated, they learned that they shared lots of similar interests -- fine wine, traveling, dogs -- and it wasn’t long until Ryan proposed to Matt. For their ceremony and reception site, Ryan and Matt decided on the Monterey Bay Aquarium in honor of their love of scuba diving and the water. -- Cait Rohan

The centerpieces were low arrangements of exotic flowers illuminated by votive candles.
The grooms’ boutonnieres were simple mini white calla lilies accented with lamb’s tail.
Because Monterey and the Salinas Valley are famous for fresh produce, Ryan and Matt ordered a “farm to fork” menu with sustainably harvested seafood.
The reception’s relaxed feel continued as guests were encouraged to mix and mingle with no assigned seating. The food was set up in stations around the room so guests could enjoy all the aquatic exhibits.
The couple wed under a domed fish tank with hundreds of shimmering anchovies swimming overhead. Dramatic, classical-cinematic songs added to the ceremony’s aquatic ambience.
Ryan’s hand-carved, mother-of-pearl starfish cuff links complemented the aquatic theme, while his 1930s Cartier black pearl tuxedo studs completed the look.
For flowers, the couple went for a tasteful tropical theme to complement the aquarium’s atmosphere.
Ryan and Matt skipped the traditional matching groomsmen idea and let the men in their wedding party personalize their style with a mix of cummerbund and vest styles.