Scandinavian Wedding Wedding Checklist

Book Church or Civil Ceremony Venue

Reserve a Lutheran church or civil ceremony venue. If planning a church wedding in Sweden, confirm that at least one partner is a member of the Church of Sweden. In Norway, confirm arrangements with the church or civil registrar.

Arrange Bridal Crown (Brudkrone/Brudkrona)

Confirm family heirloom crown, reserve a church-owned crown (Sweden), or arrange rental from a museum or heritage society (Norway). Schedule a fitting with your hairstylist.

Book Reception Venue

Reserve a reception venue suitable for a long dinner with speeches and dancing. Scandinavian weddings average around 50-100 guests.

Hire Folk Fiddler (Spelman)

Find and book a traditional fiddler for the bridal procession and possibly reception entertainment.

Order Kransekake

Order a traditional almond ring cake tower from a Scandinavian bakery or arrange for homemade preparation. Confirm it is nut-allergy safe for your guest list.

Prepare Coins for Shoes

The bride's father provides a silver coin and mother provides a gold coin for the shoe tradition (primarily Swedish).

Coordinate Guest Speeches and Songs

Reach out to guests who will give speeches or perform songs during the dinner. Create a running order with the toastmaster.

Obtain Marriage License

Apply for a certificate of no impediment from the relevant tax authority (Skatteverket in Sweden, Skatteetaten in Norway). Allow adequate processing time. The certificate is typically valid for four months.

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Select Toastmaster (Toastmester/Toastmaster)

Choose a toastmaster to manage speeches, songs, and entertainment during the dinner. This role is essential for keeping the lengthy dinner on track.

Bridal Crown Fitting and Practice

Do a test fitting of the bridal crown with hairstyle to ensure comfort and stability. Traditional crowns can be very heavy.

Confirm Wedding Rings

Ensure wedding bands are ready and fit properly. In Sweden, both partners typically exchange engagement rings (not just the bride). Norwegian couples traditionally wear wedding rings on the right hand.

Finalize Hymn Selection

Confirm the hymns and readings for the ceremony with the officiant.

Order Aquavit and Beverages

Order aquavit and other traditional Scandinavian beverages for the reception toasting.