Wedding Party
Leigh Volkland
Bride
Leigh is from a small town with all of the values that accompany that upbringing. Yet her life has transported her into a global environment, which she has learned is "home" to her. Her role as Mom has always guided her actions and she is exceptionally grateful she met and fell in love with Ken, who shares her family values.
Ken Royal
Groom
Ken's role as Dad, Partner, Brother, Uncle and Friend is his Northstar. He values his family and friends above all. His role as a professional consultant fulfills him daily and he wants nothing more than to add true value to every situation and interaction he encounters.
Lyn Jones
Matron of Honor
Leigh's "big" sister, Lyn, has been her life-long best friend, at her side for every important moment, and most of the mundane ones as well. Lyn is a powerhouse in everything she does, but also the caretaker of the family. Of course she's by Leigh's side to celebrate this new beginning!
Mike Ascarate
Best Man
Ken's best friend since they met in middle school, Mike is a Renaissance man. Dad, professional, Eagle Scout advisor, handyman, "old fashioned" virtuoso - he does it all, including serving as the best "best man."
Lauren Royal-Gordon
Bridesmaid
Ken's sister, Lauren, author, mentor, best friend, "twin mind" to Ken, and matriarch of the Royal/Royal-Gordon family, has helped to weave the fabric of our expanded family. We are grateful for her love and support.
Jack Royal-Gordon
Groomsman
Ken met his brother-in-law, Jack, when Ken was just a boy (11 years old). Jack became a "big brother," mentor, advisor, concert and sports buddy, and is wholly responsible for certain of Ken's traits, such as never eating onions and always loving the Cowboys.
Hannah Volkland
Bridesmaid
2025 is the year of weddings! Leigh's oldest daughter, Hannah, supreme nature and animal lover, international education and travel zealot, marries the love of her life, Jake, in June and now stands with her Mom in October!
Richard Jones
Groomsman
Leigh met Richard when she was 20 years old, soon after her sister met him and immediately decided he was "the one" for Lyn. Since then, in addition to BIL, Richard quickly became Leigh's BFF and the laughter and ensuing late night "deep" discussions have become a staple in life. Richard's ability to maintain and grow family ties is epic and we admire him greatly for his generosity and love for all.
Molly Volkland
Bridesmaid
Leigh's youngest daughter, Molly, a true "Leo" at heart, Kansas City Chiefs and F-1 fan, equestrian, and force of nature, has been by her Mom's side, helping to plan this celebration every step of the way.
Alex Royal
Groomsman
Alex, Ken's son, entreprenuer, lover of Roman history, and world traveler has been a critical supporter of this newly expanded family. Now, the only brother with three sisters, his natural love of family and positivity has shown through. We're so proud to have him stand up with his Dad on this day of celebration.
Isabel Royal
Bridesmaid
Ken's daughter, Isabel, recent UCLA grad, cat lover, and unapologetic "Swiftie," is thrilled to now have Hannah and Molly to share sisterhood. We deeply appreciate her support and standing with us as we celebrate our relationship.
Andrew Green
Groomsman
Andrew and Ken have been friends and Gallup colleagues for too many years to count (really, don't count!) To give you an idea, they met at a time when staying up all night "bar hopping and brainstorming" was a regular habit. We are honored that Andrew and his wife, Ursula, made the trip from Scotland (and that he didn't wear the kilt and upstage the groom)!
Rachael Corvus
Bridesmaid
Rachael, Leigh's niece/"other daughter"/artist, is the oldest sister in the Volkand/Jones "big family." Her support in this celebration is so important to this newly expanded family : )
Tim Templeton
Groomsman
Tim is a longtime friend, travel buddy, and dark beer afficionado, who unfortunately has repeatedly picked the wrong favorite sports teams. Regardless, he agreed to stand up for Leigh and Ken and we are grateful to have him by our side on this momentous occasion.
Annette Templeton
Officiant
Annette hired Ken into Gallup 31 years ago and while their professional paths diverged, they remained dear friends, travel buddies, and provided countless hours of advice to one another "behind the scenes." Annette's warmth and openness when Leigh and Ken found each other, and her wit and public speaking prowess made it a no brainer choosing her as our officiant.
