http://www.latimes.com/features/lifestyle/la-et-piccalo31mar31,1,3058650.story?coll=la-home-right1
Straight couples use their own wedding plans and relationships as catalysts for change in marriage laws.
By Gina Piccalo, Times Staff Writer
When Kate Sherwood considered the institution of marriage, it was the overworked and undervalued wives of her parents' generation who came to mind. She wanted a partnership of equals but felt that none existed in the traditional model of matrimony. Then she met Chris and Rich, a gay couple, unmarried but committed life partners. Through them, Sherwood says, she learned what makes a good marriage work. Compromise. Love. Equity.