We have swedish and french wedding customs and traditions. We now have Norway represented as well. There is a large Norwegian contingent residing in Minnesota so this should actually be a fairly popular subject. Find out about fir tree planting, the Bundas, and why there were so many who immigrated to the United States back in the 1800s.

Norwegian wedding traditions and customs

Norway is a wonderful country rich in custom and traditions. It is also beautiful with snow capped mountains, fjords, and many lakes. It is no wonder that when many Norwegians emigrated to the United states during the 1800s that they settled in Minnesota. Well, actually it was that land cost about $1.25 per acre when purchased from the government. This was very appealing and provided great opportunities for the Norwegian pioneers willing to make the trip.

Traditionally the groom will wear what's called a bundas, which is a hand made woolen suit. The bundas will usually include a white silk shirt, short pants, stockings that come up to the calf, and a vest and topcoat. It would be elaborately embroidered. The groomsmen and best man will where similar clothes. The bride would wear a white or silver wedding gown along with a gold or silver crown. Usually the crown would be decorated with small metal bangles which would tinkle when she moved. It is said that the sound would scare of evil spirits. Todays bride may want to simply wear a smaller version of the crown and still pay honor to the tradition. It is also said that bridesmaids dressed similarly (but not the same) as the bride could confuse evil spirits and help protect her as well.

There might be an individual designated the bedamann ("bidding man") who would be responsible for going from house to house inviting guests and relaying details of the upcoming festivities. The couple would send out home made invitations with him and many would end up being framed. The modern version of the bedamann is obviously the internet and a website. But the tradition can still exist

At the conclusion of the ceremony the bride and groom will exchange wedding bands. They will also kiss which seals the relationship between the newly married couple. The round ring representing endless love with no beginning and no end, the kiss symbolizing an exchange of a portion of their souls. Additionally the newly married couple will be escorted out of the church to the sound of an accordion.

A reception will follow where there will be many speeches wishing the couple much happiness. Music and dancing is also a central feature at the reception. The cake called Brudlaupskling was made of bread and dates back to a time when flour was rare on Norwegian farms. It was topped with a mixture of cheese, cream, and syrup.

It is also tradition to plant two small fir trees on either side of the couples door as a symbol of the children to come.

Karl Morgan
www.CollSound.com

Tags: norwegian