IN A CITY defined by innovators, tastemakers, and community builders, few partnerships demonstrate true cultural impact the way Matt Ribaudo and Amanda Vargus do.
As the publisher of BostonMan Magazine and the creative force behind Wave & Woven, respectively, Matt and Amanda have become the duo responsible for elevating Boston’s most celebrated philanthropic and fashion event: The Runway Ball. Their collaboration, although often speculated to be driven by romance; is something far rarer— it’s a partnership built on instinct, respect, and a shared vision for what Boston can be when creativity and community -mixed in with old fashioned grit- collide. To some it’s beautiful; to others intimidating; and even they admit it is unpredictable at times. It’s a partnership so rare and powerful, only the two of them truly know what it is exactly. What is clear, however, is the magic they produce together.
Matt Ribaudo has long been a convener in Boston. With BostonMan Magazine, he took what began as a publication and transformed it into a cultural platform that amplifies the voices, businesses, creators, and philanthropists shaping the region.
Matt’s leadership style is deeply community-oriented; he has an uncanny ability to bring people together, spark collaboration, and cultivate belonging in a city that often operates in silos. BostonMan reflects his ethos — a commitment to storytelling, connection, and lifting the city’s brightest talent. When The Runway Ball entered the picture, it became an extension of that same mission: build something that matters, and let the community shine.
Where Matt builds community, Amanda Vargus builds worlds. As the founder of Wave & Woven, Amanda has established herself as one of Boston’s most in-demand creative directors and experiential stylists. Her aesthetic is bold, emotional, and immersive — a signature blend of elegance and edge that can transform any room into a cinematic environment.
The Runway Ball’s look, feel, energy, and visual identity all trace back to Amanda’s creative leadership. She doesn’t just design an event; she architects an experience. Each year, she reimagines the show with new textures, shapes, structures, and motifs, ensuring The Runway Ball isn’t simply repeated — it evolves.
Together, Matt and Amanda are the engine behind The Runway Ball’s rising influence. Matt expands the circle, curating the people, partners, and philanthropic mission that give the night its heart. Amanda elevates the experience, creating the visual universe that gives the night its soul. Their strengths are opposite but magnetic, creating a balance that allows both the purpose and artistry of the Runway Ball to flourish without compromise. Their collaboration has given Boston an event that feels as sophisticated as New York, Milan or Paris; yet is still deeply rooted in the authenticity, philanthropy, and community connection that define this city.
What makes them Boston’s ultimate power duo is not just what they create but how they create it. They challenge each other. They fight with each other. They trust each other. They anticipate each other. They love each other. Their partnership proves that when two leaders bring different strengths to the same mission, the result is bigger than either could build alone.
The Runway Ball has become a cultural force because Matt and Amanda insist on excellence — not for themselves, but for Boston. They’ve elevated the region’s creative landscape, bridged the philanthropic and fashion communities, and crafted a night that celebrates beauty, purpose, and the people who make Boston what it is.
Together, they don’t just shape the city’s scene — they set its standard.
