Sam and Mark’s Adventure Aquarium wedding was nothing short of enchanting. With a stunning blue beach theme, every detail reflected their love for the sea and each other. From their emotional first look to the vibrant celebration, Sam and Mark’s Adventure Aquarium wedding was a magical day filled with love, laughter, and the beauty of the sea.
Getting Ready for the Adventure Aquarium Wedding
The day began with intricate touches: starfish hairpieces, vibrant blue bridesmaids’ bouquets, matching pajamas, and dresses. Even the wedding rings featured a unique blue and green stripe detail, symbolizing their union. Sam’s maid of honor assisted her into a stunning Seng Couture lace mermaid gown, and touching moments were shared as Sam & her mom helped each other put on their wedding day jewelry.





Mark’s suit was a standout, with embroidered initials and a galaxy-themed interior lining that showcased his unique style. The groomsmen added a touch of humor, cutting pockets on Mark’s suit jacket with a knife and turning to YouTube tutorials to pin their blue rose boutonnieres. As Mark’s sister joined in the pre-wedding festivities, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and warmth as the guys hung out and waited for the Adventure Aquarium wedding day festivities to begin. Finally, the moment Mark had been waiting for approached as the guys headed for the Riverfront Park for a first look with his bride.




Riverfront First Look & Portraits
While waiting for his beautiful bride, Mark’s emotions were palpable. His fists clenched tightly in anticipation, and the moment Sam approached, the intensity was overwhelming. Mark turned immediately, tears streaming down his face, while Sam radiated pure happiness. It was a poignant moment that left not a dry eye in sight as friends and family watched from over the hill.





Despite the chill of Winter air, friends and family huddled together for warmth, and the couple braved the riverfront winds for breathtaking portraits with the city skyline as their backdrop. After snapping a few fun shots with the wedding party, Sam & Mark meandered their way down the riverfront path, spending a few moments alone in front of the lens before saying their “I do’s” at their Adventure Aquarium wedding.











Ceremony with the Sea Creatures
The ceremony, held in the Currents Ballroom with views of the substantial shark tank, was officiated by Sam’s Uncle Jimmy, who had previously officiated four family and friends’ weddings as well. Filled with laughter, the ceremony included a lighthearted moment where Sam was accidentally given her own ring to place on Mark. They laughed it off, exchanged the correct rings, and sealed their vows with a kiss amidst the awe of family, friends, and swimming sea creatures. Having completed all formal photos beforehand, Sam and Mark enjoyed their cocktail hour, which featured a special penguin guest!





Adventure Aquarium Wedding Celebration in the Currents Ballroom
The best part of an Adventure Aquarium wedding reception in the Currents Ballroom is getting to celebrate with a stunning view into the 550,000 gallon tank filled with sharks, stingrays, and sea creatures. The reception details perfectly matched the aquarium and beach theme with blue linens, floating candles, and a Delta airplane featured on their wedding cake, nodding to Sam’s career as a flight attendant. The newlyweds shared their first dance, inviting guests to join halfway through. Heartfelt speeches from the best man and maid of honor were followed by an energetic dance floor, where Sam danced with her flight attendant friends, Mark finally shed his jacket to show off his galaxy lined vest, and DJ Adam kept the celebration more than lively. Friends and family danced the night away, creating unforgettable memories with the happy couple on their Adventure Aquarium wedding day.









Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Staunton!

Photographer: Ashley Gerrity Photography | Getting Ready: Hilton Garden Inn | Reception Venue: Adventure Aquarium | Entertainment: Adam the DJ | Dress Boutique: Seng Couture | Wedding Rings: Kay Jewelers | Groom’s Suit: Indochino |


