Ocean Graham
Location:
Highlands, Moray, Grampian, Inverness, Elgin, Aberdeen, North Scotland
Will travel
Phone:
07743442966
Email:
oceanandscotty@btinternet.com
Traditional and Viking wedding ceremonies in Scotland
Personalised marriage ceremonies
Every couple is unique and Scotland allows you to celebrate your love through a legally binding marriage anywhere you wish – be it a castle, cathedral, or in one of the many beautiful natural locations Scotland is blessed with.
As a wedding celebrant, I offer marriage ceremonies tailored to your wishes, be it a traditional or alternative wedding ceremony, a Viking themed wedding, a handfasting, or an elopement to the Highlands.
Our ceremonies aim to strengthen and honour couples and families. They can be simple or more involved. I perform ceremonies to those of all faiths or none and same sex couples are also very welcome.
If you have any plans for the big day and would like to discuss them before you commit to specific details, don’t hesitate to give me a call
Viking themed wedding ceremonies
Whether you have been inspired by TV shows like Vikings, or find the ancient Norse myths alluring, a Viking wedding ceremony may be for you.
Any elements of a Viking wedding can be incorporated into your special day, whether it’s Thor’s hammer, the exchange of swords or choosing to marry in nature. Each element will make your day all the more meaningful and memorable. If you decide to marry outdoors, you may wish to consider a back-up plan, given Scotland’s infamous weather. Though a Viking wouldn’t be put off by a little rain!
As a celebrant, I respect each couple’s preferences as to which wedding customs to follow and am happy to discuss your choices in advance.
Viking wedding traditions
Viking marriages are my speciality and I love how their symbolism relates to a modern-day Viking bride and groom.
Thor’s hammer
Thor, the God of Thunder and son of Odin, represents power sharing in a marriage. It’s a common practice during Viking marriage ceremonies for Thor’s hammer to be placed upon the bride’s lap as she receives a blessing.
Exchanging swords
Many Norse sagas tell of the exchange of swords, which represents the joining of the couple’s clans. Viking wedding rings can be placed on their handles during the exchange. As modern Vikings might not carry swords with them, I have two to use for such an occasion.
Bridal gown
Viking brides can choose a traditional wedding gown, Scottish attire, or a Viking style gown. This is long and loose and traditionally made of linen or wool. The bride’s hair would have been intricately styled and a bridal crown may be worn.
Wedding feast
The Viking wedding feast is a celebration of abundance. Whether with a large roast or a vegetarian alternative, being able to eat to your hearts content after tying the knot is part of the tradition.
Norsemen often drank from Viking drinking horns and would toast to various gods and goddesses including Frigga, the Goddess of love, marriage, and motherhood. Many Norse marriages are on a Friday, in honour of Frigga.
Other ceremonies in Scotland
In addition to being a wedding officiant, I am also an interfaith minister. In these capacities, I offer special ceremonies in Scotland to mark all the different chapters of our lives. This includes vow renewals, baby namings, coming of age and elder ceremonies.
If you plan on tying the knot with a hand-fasting, as pictured here, I am also happy to oblige.
If you’re interested in any type of ceremony in the Highlands or Scotland as a whole, please contact me and I will do my best to make your day as special as it can possibly be.
Ocean
Family-friendly Interfaith Celebrant
