Gay couple competing for $80k wedding

Three couples, two heterosexual and one homosexual, are currently competing for an extravagant wedding worth $80,000. The competition, set up by Arena Stage, a United States Theatre company, is “giving away a free wedding in the stunning and dramatic Mead Center for American Theater on DC’s waterfront featuring a Wedding Ceremony, Cocktail Hour and Reception for up to 175 guests.”

The competing couples each had to submit their love story to a panel of judges to be selected for the final three. Shawn Byers and Mike O’Sullivan met online because they were each looking for a running partner.

The competition is incorporating social media into their decision, and has prompted the public to vote for their favorites. “#shawnlovesmike” is the twitter handle for the happy, soon-to-be married gay couple.