Wedding Party

Grace Emmert

Bride

Tom Palmer

Groom

Hannah Emmert

Maid of Honor

It’s no surprise that my older sister is also my maid of honor. I’ve been picturing her by my side on this day since we were kids. Hannah is one of the kindest and most creative people I know, and I’ve looked up to her my whole life. From playing on the same softball team to working side by side at Waukee High as her assistant color guard director, we've shared so many meaningful moments. She's been a constant in every chapter of my life, and I can’t imagine this one without her.

Sam Palmer

Best Man

Sam has been my lifelong companion, from growing up together to sharing a home in Iowa City. We have a friendly rivalry that might even make an appearance at the wedding. Whether it's debating who has the better beard or who would win on the tennis court, our banter is endless. Beyond the jokes, Sam is my go-to confidant, always there to offer support and advice. I couldn’t imagine anyone else by my side as my best man.

Shona Heywood

Bridesmaid

Even though I’ve only known Shona a few years, she feels like someone who’s been in my life forever. She’s fun, grounded, and always knows what to do—she’s the “what would Shona do?” voice in my head. Also, she’s a plant whisperer. Thanks to her, Tom and I now have a growing collection of houseplants we’re doing our best not to kill. One day, we hope our place looks half as lush as Shona and Payton’s greenhouse of a home.

Payton Scandridge

Groomsman

Payton’s been one of my closest friends since we were kids. From middle school wrestling matches to marathon board game nights, we’ve pretty much done it all. He’s goofy, down for anything, and always seems to show up with a weird idea and a frisbee. Whether we’re laughing about the past or figuring out what’s next, he’s always been one of those once-in-a-lifetime friends I can count on - and I’m grateful to have him standing with me.

Anna Bonnett

Bridesmaid

As my oldest friend, Anna is basically my sister. We met when we were kids, and it’s still one of my favorite stories: my sister Hannah and I were bouncing on our trampoline when out of nowhere, this random girl just jumped in. That was Anna, turns out she just moved in across the street. No introduction, no hesitation—just instant chaos and instant friendship. Ever since, she’s been the kind of friend who brings the unexpected into my life, whether it's a new obsession (that I somehow always end up helping with) or just her one-of-a-kind energy. I never know what’s coming next with her, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

Noah Emmert

Groomsman

Noah and Grace have always shared a special bond, and getting to know him better has been something I’ve truly valued. He’s incredibly thoughtful and I admire the way he shows up for the people he cares about. I’m thankful to call him not just a future brother-in-law, but a friend as well.

Annaleigh Babcock

Bridesmaid

My best friend from Chemistry! Annaleigh and I have had a ridiculous number of adventures together, but our most iconic was timing how long it would take to ride every single ride a 5’10’’ adult can go on at Adventureland. Final time: 7 hours and 23 minutes. She's one of my favorite people to talk to—about books, music, life, whatever—and she’s always down for a long debate about which Sarah J. Maas series is best. (I say A Court of Thorns and Roses, she says Crescent City.) Whenever we are together, you can usually find us curled up on a couch, talking about everything and nothing. She’s the best kind of person to have in your corner.

Rachel Engelken

Groomswoman

Rachel is more than just family - she’s been one of the most steady and supportive people in my life. We’re the same age, and growing up together as cousins gave us a closeness that’s only deepened over time. She’s the person I can talk to about anything, without judgment, and she’s always been there to lift me up when I’ve needed it most. Her compassion, loyalty, and quiet strength have meant the world to me, and I’m so grateful to have her by my side.