Wedding Party
McKenzie Sauder
Maid of Honor
McKenzie and Kate’s friendship began in 2017 while working together at Touchtown in Oakmont. Though Kate eventually moved on to a new role, the two stayed close—thanks in large part to McKenzie stepping in as the trusted dog sitter for Nigel and Harvey. What started as professional help quickly grew into a deep friendship as they began spending more time together, especially once Harvey and McKenzie’s dog, Maple, became inseparable best friends. Today, McKenzie is one of Kate’s closest confidantes and a constant source of support. McKenzie lives in Brookline with her fiancé, Rohan, and their beloved Maple. With both McKenzie and Kate planning their weddings this year, it has been an incredibly special season of shared milestones and celebrations. When they aren't wedding planning, McKenzie and Rohan love exploring new restaurants, traveling, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Aaron Davis
Best Man
Phil and Aaron first met way back in the early 90s. Phil always says that one of his first memories is from when he was less than 3 years old, feeling Aaron and Sarah kick in their mom’s belly. Like all brothers, Phil and Aaron grew up playing together, fighting over toys, and always trying to be the first to call the front seat in their dad’s truck. As adults they have had each other’s back and seek advice from each other before some of life’s big moments. Aaron lives in Richmond, Virginia with his wife Alexis, their two cats (Nala & Nyx) and their bearded dragon (Beardie).
Lanie Phillips
Bridesmaid
Lanie and Kate’s story began in 2012 at Pandora Jewelry in Louisville, Kentucky. What started as a workplace connection quickly blossomed into a lifelong friendship. Even when life took them to different cities in 2014—Kate back to Pittsburgh and Lanie to Lexington—the distance only served to make their bond stronger. Through a decade of Caribbean vacations, constant visits, and a shared, specialized language of internet memes, they’ve remained as close as ever. Lanie currently calls Lexington home, where she lives with her husband, Josh, and their adorable daughter, Margot. Their house is a lively one, filled with love and the energy of their two German Shepherds, Leo and Maple.
Benjamin Barran
Best Man
From the elementary school bus, to the campus of Penn State, to the neighborhood of south side and beyond, Ben and Phil have been many things to each other over the years: neighbors, classmates, videogame competitors, road trip companions, youth group attenders, best friends. They spent countless Friday nights hanging out after school at Ben’s Pappy’s house, and his family’s legendary dinners. As the more introverted one, Phil would like to thank Ben for always helping him feel included in large groups. Ben lives in Bridgeville with his wife, Bre, their three sons Oliver, Luka and Noah, and their dog, Molly.
Kelsey Cakmes
Bridesmaid
Kelsey moved to Pittsburgh in 2016 to work at Alcoa, and thanks to a mutual connection—Kelsey’s childhood best friend was Kate’s college roommate—the two were quickly introduced. Their friendship kicked off with a slightly awkward "friend date" at Patron's in East Liberty, but things accelerated quickly when a few margaritas led to the spontaneous booking of a trip to Greece! Although Kelsey moved back to Knoxville in 2017, the distance hasn't slowed them down. They’ve stayed close through frequent visits, always picking up exactly where they left off the moment they’re back together. Today, Kelsey lives in Knoxville with her husband, Steven, their two precious boys, Nico and George, and their dog, Penny.
Devin Illgenfritz
Groomsman
Another lifelong friend since the early days of elementary school, Devin and Phil have shared many common interests over the years. As gym buddies in high school, they used to compete for who could bench-press more. These days, you're more likely to find them enjoying a cigar or hanging out enjoying a cold one. Recently, Devin helped Phil sell his house in Greentree, and then further helped Phil and Kate purchase their current home in Bethel Park. Devin lives in Canonsburg with his wife Christie, their daughters Avery and Indie, and their dogs Calie and Boomer Benz.
Caitlin Jones
Bridesmaid
Caitlin and Kate grew up just a few houses apart in Peters Township, but it was on the middle school bus that their lifelong friendship truly took flight. From competitive Mario Kart marathons and filming YouTube videos, to sneaking out for late-night pool hopping, their childhood was defined by shared adventures. Caitlin has played a foundational role in Kate’s life since the beginning, and Kate is honored to have her standing by her side as she starts this next chapter. Caitlin now lives in Mt. Washington with her boyfriend, Ben, and their perfect German Shepherd, Duncan. When they aren't tending to their garden, you can find them outdoors, staying active and traveling.
Brian Eckles
Groomsman
Cousin of co-best man Ben, Brian and Phil's friendship goes way back to the Friday night dinners at Pappy's. As fellow cooks at Bob Evans #498, Brian and Phil often joke about who did a better job on the line and who belonged in the dishwashing room. Their dogs Harper and Mira were also instant playmates as puppies. Phil appreciates Brian's life-of-the-party attitude and his habit of making sure everyone's having a good time. Brian lives in Washington with his wife Corrie, their daughter Briar, their son Knox, their dog Mira, and their cats Lela and Tally.
Sarah Foster
Bridesmaid
While they’ve only known each other for a couple of years, Kate knew right away that she was lucky to be gaining Sarah as a sister-in-law. It’s been so much fun getting to know one another through family gatherings and girl's dinners, and Kate is looking forward to many more years of memories ahead. Kate is so incredibly lucky to not only be gaining a sister-in-law but to have such a supportive and kind friend by her side as she and Phil join their families together. Sarah lives in Finleyville, where she stays busy taking care of her dogs, cats, and chickens! Sarah and her Husband, Zack, like to spend their time outdoors, gardening, and doing home projects. Kate and Phil are so happy to have her as such a big part of their wedding day and their lives!
Zack Foster
Groomsman
Zack officially joined the family when he married Phil’s sister, Sarah. In Zack, Phil sees the same hard-working character that he grew up admiring in his own dad. It's clear that Zack is a great husband to Sarah, and Phil really enjoyed spending quality time with them during their recent hiking trip in Zion National Park. Phil is proud to have a brother-in-law like Zack standing with him on the big day. Zack lives in Finleyville with his wife Sarah, their two Dobermans Myra and Freyja, and their cats Oli, Sissy and Madi.
Robin and Mark Paeplow
Parents of the Bride
As Kate’s parents, Robin and Mark have been her biggest supporters since day one. When they aren't home in Pittsburgh, they are likely exploring the world together—with a particular love for traveling to the Netherlands and share a deep appreciation for the theater and the arts. Their lives are kept lively by their two beloved dogs, Clementine and Leiden, and they couldn’t be more thrilled to see Kate and Phil begin their own journey together.
Gwen and Paul Davis
Parents of the Groom
As Phil's parents, Gwen and Paul have guided him through some of the most defining chapters of his life. Phil and his mom both went to Penn State, and she often likes to greet him with a cheerful "We Are!" Gwen and Paul share a love for the outdoors and are never more at home than when they are out camping and enjoying nature or relaxing at the beach. Gwen and Paul live in Finleyville with their dog, Abbiey, and are so excited to officially welcome Kate into the family as they celebrate this next chapter with Phil.
Josh Phillips
Officiant
College friend, legendary host, and now—our officiant! Kate has known Josh since their university days through Lanie, and Phil officially joined the fan club during their trip to Kentucky last year. An amazing father and husband who is always the life of the party, Josh is the perfect person to help us officially tie the knot. When he isn’t making things official at the altar, you’ll find Josh in Lexington enjoying a cigar, hanging out with his family, or keeping up with his two German Shepherds, Leo and Maple.