I Do Crew
Joanne Palmer
Bride
A fiercely independent, strong-willed woman with a sharp wit, a passion for cooking, and a love for yoga. A solo world traveler (until she met me), she’s deeply loyal and the kind of auntie who would move mountains for her nieces and nephews—and anyone else she loves.
Austin Penn
Groom
A dog enthusiast (who insists you pass along his “hello” to your dog) with a love of hiking, anything outdoors, and gaming. My kinder, gentler half, who truly believes in making the world a better place. A food lover with an impressive ability to somehow burn water—yet still manages to keep the kitchen entertaining as my sous chef.
Christian Conrad
Maid of Honor
We met at a music festival when we were younger, lost touch for a bit, and then reconnected later—now we’re inseparable. She’s the one who adds all the color and excitement to my life. What’ll spark a conversation: Bad Bunny, Mac Miller, or anything about dogs! Don’t forget to ask her about her amazing Halloween makeup looks – from spooky to glamorous, she’s brought some unforgettable characters to life over the years.
Evan Bryant
Best Man
Inseparable since third grade, Evan was practically part of the family—so much so that he became the 4th Penn son. What'll spark a conversation: Brisk Iced Tea, golf, and Big Ten sports!
Maria Grishina
Maid of Honor
We met at work in March 2021 and instantly bonded over shared chaos. Since then, she’s been my go-to emotional support human. What'll spark a conversation: A Russian who skips vodka? The ever-growing jungle in her studio “mansion,” Zara finds, boys who *claim* they’re 6 feet tall, and astrology.
Colin Penn
Groomsman
The middle Penn son, always making everyone laugh—even when he’s not trying. What'll spark a conversation: Working out, sour candy, video games, hard cider/sours, NFL, and MMA.
Brea Patterson
Bridesmaid
My sweet niece, who somehow outgrew me over the years! She’s my built-in bestie and the only one bold enough to join me on the wildest amusement park rides. What'll spark a conversation: Basketball, favorite place to get tacos, college life in St. Thomas, and your latest book obsession.
Donnie Palmer III
Groomsman
He may have seemed intimidating at first, but once I got to know Joanne's brother, he quickly became a big teddy bear. What'll spark a conversation: His love of being a dad, coffee, cars, and Blackstone smash burgers.
Lance Cafarella
Bridesman
I met Lance at a music event when I was younger—he was one of the DJs, and I was always a little fascinated by him from afar. We’ve been friends ever since, bonding over our love of food and keeping up our tradition of monthly dinner dates. He’s always my go-to for trying the newest restaurant in town! What'll spark a conversation: Burning Man, traveling, music, and a good craft sour beer.
Drew Penn
Groomsman
The oldest Penn son, he’s given me countless rides and taught me endless lessons since I was young. He also helped foster my love of fine dining. What'll spark a conversation: Board games, scotch, science fiction/fantasy novels, and American hegemony.
Rachel Cowan
Bridesmaid
My big sister—my lifelong confidant and the one I can always count on. We keep each other grounded and she’s my favorite partner for road trip adventures! What'll spark a conversation: Anything science or nature-related, her next must-watch documentary, astrology, and road trips.
Mario Noboa
Groomsman
We met in the Chemistry Master's program at Illinois State, holding it down at house parties and Maggie Miley's (and studying, of course). Close friends ever since. What'll spark a conversation: Tennis, soccer, music festivals, reggaeton, and his dog (Gordon the Husky).
Sam Yates
Bridesman
Before landing his "big boy" job, Sam served me coffee by day and wine by night at our local market. He’s my favorite person to chat with and share a bottle of red—which, honestly, dreads our arrival. What’ll spark a conversation: His synth, music, marathon running, and his passion for medical research (which also happens to be his career). Oh, and don't forget to ask about life in NYC!
Matt Braush
Groomsman
From my interview at Ameresco, I thought, “He seems cool, I’d be friends with that guy.” Now, he’s one of the people who makes the valley feel like home. What'll spark a conversation: His dogs (Rosie and Daphne), coffee, “My personality is my Blackstone,” Pokémon cards, and pickleball.
Donnie Palmer IV
Ring Bearer
Meet our tiniest VIP—our one-year-old ring bearer and the bride’s sweet nephew! He may be small, but he’s sure to steal the show (and your heart).
Lilly Carter
Flower Girl
Say hello to our darling flower girl! She’s the bride’s great-niece, and with her sweet smile and big heart, she’s ready to sprinkle a little extra magic (and petals!) down the aisle.