Spiritual Orkney
CONTACT US
Helen & Mark Woodsford-Dean
Craigielea, Harray, Orkney, Scotland, KW17 2JU
+44(0)7749 934617 (mob) / +44(0)1856 761133


Please email or text prior to telephoning, thanks
Viking weddings and handfastings
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

Preparing the hall
Our Jarl awaits
Musicians setting up
Hall ready
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