When it comes to weddings, every country has its own customs and conventions that often dictate how the day plays out. It’s no different in Scandinavia, where different nations abide by their unique ‘rules’ that have been a feature of these special occasions for many years. In this article we share with you five ways to enjoy a traditional Scandinavian wedding.
A Scandinavian wedding is not just a union of two individuals, but a celebration steeped in age-old traditions, natural beauty, and community spirit.
Regardless of whether you’re planning your wedding or are simply fascinated by cultural nuptials, there are countless ways to infuse the essence of Scandinavia into this huge life celebration – from your choice of music to your carefully selected menu. Here are some common traits seen in weddings across Scandinavia.
Connecting with nature
With some truly captivating landscapes stretching across the region, Scandinavian people have a deep connection to the great outdoors. And what better way to explore this love than by incorporating nature into your big day? To truly experience this, consider an open-air ceremony where the landscape plays a significant role, perhaps sprinkling in natural elements such as wildflowers and rustic décor.
Photo © Christin Eide
Whether your venue sits by a vast lake, in front of a mountainous backdrop, or within a dense forest, there’s certainly no shortage of breathtaking options to explore across the region. Not only can you enjoy the vista on the day, but heading outdoors will only make your wedding album even more beautiful. Whatever the backdrop, an outdoor wedding in this part of the world is bound to create striking photos that will be cherished forever.
A feast of Nordic delicacies
Scandinavian cuisine is known for its simplicity, freshness, and seasonal approach. A wedding feast may include a smörgåsbord bursting with smoked fish, pickled herring, meatballs, and regional cheeses. Traditional dishes like kåldolmar (cabbage rolls) and gravlax (dill-cured salmon) might also grace the table, alongside hearty bread and preserves.
Photo © Mathuset
As part of the wedding breakfast, expect plenty of speeches from guests of honour and the happy couple. Sweden in particular adopts the stance of ‘the more the merrier’ when it comes to the speeches, so make sure you allow for plenty of time for this important part of the day.
A trail of flowers
In keeping with the natural theme, Scandinavian bridal bouquets and decorations often feature a plethora of flowers that showcase native flora. Picture a bride walking down the aisle, her path sprinkled with petals of mountain heath or Arctic roses, holding a bouquet of wildflowers tied with simple twine. By incorporating indigenous flowers into your wedding, you have the chance to pay homage to the beauty and simplicity of Scandinavia’s close connection with Mother Nature.
Photo © Mester Grønn
If you’re stuck for inspiration in this department, think about the time of year you’re hosting the wedding, and opt for floral arrangements that encapsulate the season. For example, summer is the perfect time to use peonies that are not only bursting with colour, but will exude a sweet fragrance that’ll permeate throughout your venue.
Midsummer nuptials
Speaking of seasons, tying the knot during Midsummer – a pivotal celebration in Scandinavia – can add an extra layer of cultural authenticity. With festivities that include dancing around the maypole, wearing crowns made of wildflowers, and singing traditional folk songs, a Midsummer wedding is rich in enchantment and folklore.
Photo © Anne Katja Gaup
Want to feel like your wedding day will never end? Host your ceremony on the longest day of the year, and you can enjoy the fairytale feeling at this magical time. If you’re planning a summer celebration, just make sure you give guests plenty of advanced notice, since it’s typically a busy time of year for families and festivals.
Favours with a Scandinavian flair
Wedding favours are a delightful way for guests to take a piece of the celebration home. To capture the heart of Scandinavia, consider gifts such as Swedish Dala horses, small bottles of cloudberry jam, or hand-painted ornaments. These tokens serve as a reminder of the day’s joy and an invitation to continue cherishing Scandinavian culture. Better yet, to foster a sense of intimacy and heritage, consider incorporating handmade items that reflect the craftsmanship that these countries are renowned for.
Photo © Nordic Nest
Whether your heritage traces back to the fjords of Norway, the archipelagos of Sweden, or the icy shores of Denmark, or if you’re simply a lover of this culture’s elegance, a traditional Scandinavian wedding presents a myriad of charming ways to celebrate. From rustic outdoor settings and folklore-infused festivities to soulful feasts and timeless customs, these weddings serve as a reminder of the profound beauty found in this part of the world.
Five Ways to Enjoy a Traditional Scandinavian Wedding, written for Daily Scandinavian by Elizabeth Long. Elizabeth is a digital consultant with several years of experience creating content for a range of different companies worldwide. She majored in creative writing and was always eager to expand her knowledge around different subjects.
Feature image (on top) © Kitchn.no