Viking Weddings & Handfastings
We are now pleased to be able to provide 'packages' to enable you to celebrate your union with a Viking style handfasting (with or without legal status) ...
- we will transform a suitable Orkney venue into an atmospheric Viking / Norse long-house for your delight and pleasure with:
- hangings and furs on the walls
- a central 'hearth' (this is a 'mock' hearth with due respect to modern health and safety concerns, so there are fewer fire risks)
- weapons, shields and helmets on display to set the scene
- lit with romantic candle-light (usually LED to reduce fire risk)
- covered tables and seating
- adjustable (modern) lighting and heating for your comfort
- convenient access to toilets
- fully equipped on-site kitchen for your caterers' use
- all 'performers' (depending on number needed to attend to fulfil your requirements) will be in costume
- you will receive a warm welcome from our Jarl ('earl') with the option of adding any of the following:
- our Jarl's house-keeper will offer everyone a drink from a horn of ale to share, on arrival
- at-table entertainments - juggling, rune readings etc. - whilst your guests arrive and settle in their seats
- background music
- a handfasting ceremony (with legal status if required) written uniquely for the couple, based on Ásatrú (or alternatives if requested) which will invite the blessings of Norse deities; the ritual will be performed by Helen as völva (seeress) and / or Mark as goði (priest) - both of whom have the authority to conduct legal weddings in Scotland - with the option of adding any of the following:
- handfasting cords
- made using traditional Norse tablet weaving methods, your choice of colours
- or our handfasting cords
- a mead toast for / to the couple using traditional drinking horns
- we can recommend caterers to you and advise them accordingly if you wish to provide an authentic Viking feast for your noble guests; we offer the option of adding any of the following:
- the comfort of your guests can be delegated to our Jarl; he and his house-keeper can supervise the caterers so it will appear as if you and your guests' are enjoying his generous hospitality throughout
- we can loan you (up to 25 guests):
- traditional bowls, platters and 'utensils' to eat off and from
- drinking horns to drink from
- we can supply themed wedding favours and gifts
- if required, you have the further option of adding any of the following:
- we can obtain a bar licence and provide a well-stocked bar, from which your guests can purchase additional drinks including Orkney craft beers
- we offer a choice of professional photography services (photographer will be in costume)
- we can provide entertainment, with the following options:
- authentic music from the period from our specialist and talented musicians:
- background music as your guests arrive, as the handfasting ceremony takes place, and whilst food is served and eaten
- songs from Scandinavia of a thousand years ago
- traditional songs and dances to learn and join in with
- stories can be told by our Jarl, his house-keeper, our musicians and our völva
- suitable games can be played which you and your guests will be invited to join in with - this is fun for all ages
Our venue and equipment can cater for up to 30 guests (including the couple).
The entire 'package' will provide entertainment for approximately 4 hours but we will discuss your precise and individual requirements with you.
We require a minimum of 6 month's notice and please be aware that this offer is more suited to the winter months (due to availability of other performers).
Prices on application, depending on requirements
