Our Journey

We met in Laguna Beach, not knowing that just ten days later—on March 26 2005—would mark the beginning of our extraordinary life together.

That first year was a whirlwind. Mike traveled to Paris and London, we celebrated his 40th birthday, and during a visit to Minnesota in June, we made a big decision—to move there together.

By August, we were settling into our first apartment in St. Paul, filled with excitement for the life we were beginning to build.

In 2006, we bought and renovated a charming home in Minneapolis. It became the backdrop to so many milestones and moments of joy. Our days were filled with laughter, love, and the companionship of dear friends and family. And into that life came three little Yorkshire terriers—Hugo, Steffi, and Wilson—who truly made our house a home.

Together, we chased our dreams. Matt pursued an Associates Degree in Interior Design and began a fulfilling career. In 2008, Mike embarked on his current sobriety journey—a life-changing turning point—and later earned his Master’s Degree in Addiction Studies. We supported each other every step of the way, growing stronger with each challenge and triumph.

We have been fortunate to share more than a dozen Caribbean cruises with friends and family—our travels took us to Greece, Italy, Ireland, England, Portugal, Spain, and across the U.S. Each adventure deepened our bond and created lifelong memories.

Of course, life brought its hardships. The loss of Matt’s brother John in 2009 was heartbreaking. But through every sorrow, we leaned on one another—and found strength in our love.

In 2014 we moved to Plantation, Florida and spent four summers on Lake Minnetonka and then in 2019 moved year round to our home on the inter-coastal waterway in Ft. Lauderdale.

Through the years we marveled at how two individuals that were so different from one another could make decisions together almost effortlessly.

We credit our ability to listen to each other when we can see in each others eyes that what either of us is saying and experiencing is important.

In 2023 our path led us to our current home in Parkland, Florida, where we are grateful to have neighbors on both sides that have become dear friends.

We also said painful goodbyes to our beloved pups—Steffi 13 years, Wilson 15 years and Hugo 17 years-each one leaving paw prints forever on our hearts.

In 2024, Barney and Chloe—our joyful miniature schnauzer siblings puppies—bounced into our lives, bringing a fresh wave of energy and affection.

On January 27, 2025, surrounded by friends and family in Puerto Vallarta, while celebrating Mike’s upcoming 60th birthday, Mike—assisted by Paula—got down on one knee and asked Matt to marry him.

Our story is woven with love, respect, laughter, growth, compromise, acceptance and forgiveness. Hand in hand, our journey continues to unfold—a beautiful life built with deep gratitude for the friends and family who have uplifted and supported us along the way.

We are overjoyed to return to Pelican Lake to be married—a cherished sanctuary for the Barry family, rich with tradition, peace, and connection.

Its clear waters, serene mornings, and countless boating adventures have embraced generations, making it far more than a picturesque escape.

For us, it’s the most meaningful place to begin our next chapter and say “I do”—surrounded by legacy, love, and the enduring spirit of family.