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 traditional Orkney village hall 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
    • wooden benches and covered tables
    • plenty of free parking
    • adjustable (modern) lighting and heating for your comfort
    • convenient access to toilets
    • rural location
    • 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 30 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 3 month's notice.

Prices on application, depending on requirements

Preparing the hall
Our Jarl awaits
Musicians setting up
Hall ready
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