Just a couple of weeks before Yule 2024, I received a request from NBR Thommy Vähäsalo asking if I would be willing to officiate a wedding in Helsingborg in Sweden at the end of May the following year. I didn’t need any time to consider—it was an immediate yes. I find it magical to lead ceremonies for those who wish to solemnize their vows before the gods and goddesses of Ásatrú.
I’m happy that the Community can offer alternatives for weddings, funerals, and naming ceremonies (for both children and adults) for those who follow Ásatrú, and one does not need to be a member of the Community to receive this service—it is open to all.
For the occasion, I had the help of Laban Hansson, with whom I had been in contact for some time on other matters concerning the Community in the Southern district.
The groom picked me up at the train station in Helsingborg, where I arrived with the large ceremonial drum slung over my shoulder, a suitcase full of ritual items and attire, and a case containing my ceremonial staff sticking up like a flagpole from the middle of my luggage.
Soon we arrived at the site of the ceremony. The couple had already set up the blóttable and chairs for the guests on a dance platform—perfect for the purpose. Shortly afterward, Laban arrived, quickly settling in, dressed in time-appropriate clothing. We went through all parts of the ceremony and his responsibilities, and he got some time to familiarize himself with the drum he would be playing during the ritual.
The weather was perfect—cool in the air and sunny. The guests soon arrived, mingling in their beautiful summer clothes, all full of excitement and anticipation.
Laban prepared to lead the couple to me after I had welcomed the guests. This part of the ceremony always moves me deeply—when the couple steps forward and meets my eyes, I always get a little teary, but I collect myself quickly and offer them a warm welcome.
Around forty guests, both children and adults, experienced for the first time in their lives a ceremony where our ancient Norse gods and powers are invoked to sanctify the couple’s vows. Laban performed his tasks with confidence, and soon I declared the couple married.
Many guests appreciated the ceremony and felt it was different from what they had expected. A young girl approached me with many questions about Ásatrú and the meaning of all the ritual objects. She was fascinated by the staff—personal and decorated with symbols and memories representing the powers I honor and those who have helped me on my life path. She was also allowed to hold and play the drum.
Laban soon said his goodbyes, and I am truly grateful for him. It was an important meeting, and we plan to reunite in the autumn to continue the collaboration, which is still in its planning stages.
Ceremonies make one hungry! A table was set, and there was plenty of delicious food to choose from—a flavorful end to a wonderful day with this amazing couple, Felicia and Christian, and their lovely friends and family.
Til árs ok friðar
Lena Svensson Hildebrand, DBR West/ Gyðja
Laban Hansson writes:
On May 31st, I had the chance to participate in and assist with a wedding ceremony in Helsingborg. I’ve been a member for a while but had never attended any of NAS’s/NAC´s rites or ceremonies before, so I saw this as a great honor and an opportunity to gain insight into what our weddings look like. This was especially valuable for me, as I plan to have NAS/NAC officiate my own wedding in a year or so. So when Lena asked us in District South if anyone was available and willing to assist, I immediately volunteered!
I had some preparatory discussions with Lena, and when the day came, I set out in my finest historical attire, full of excitement.
Once I arrived at the beautiful little area where the wedding was to take place, I got to meet Lena in person for the first time and introduced myself to both her and the couple. After a short briefing on how the ceremony would proceed, everything seemed quite straightforward. My main duties were to lead the couple into the ceremonial circle to the sound of the drum and then help Lena by handing over, preparing, and pouring what was needed.
I took my assignment to heart and thoroughly checked all the items on the beautiful altar before beginning to practice with the drum to find a good tone and rhythm. More and more guests arrived, and even curious neighbors passing by stopped to ask what was going on—they thought it looked exciting. When the time came, Lena, now dressed in her ceremonial, time-appropriate clothing, was ready to begin the ritual.
The forty or so guests gathered in a circle, and Lena explained a bit about the rules and how the ceremony would proceed. Once everyone understood, she gave me the signal to pick up the drum and get ready with the couple. A bit nervous, I walked over and positioned myself to lead the couple into the circle. On her signal, I began to drum and walk.
The couple was led to the altar, and I took my place at the side.
I witnessed a beautiful and powerful ceremony—the presence of the powers was palpable.
As mentioned, this was my first real ceremony, and the strength that comes from many people gathered together, performing these rituals with a shared purpose, was truly powerful. Lena soon completed the ceremony, and everyone applauded and rejoiced.
I stayed for a little while afterward and exchanged words with some of the participants who also found the entire experience new and fascinating. Eventually, it was time for me to leave, and I thanked both Lena and the couple for the honor of being part of it.
I am truly grateful to have taken part, and I hope I might inspire someone reading this to do the same if they ever get the opportunity.
Once again, a thousand thanks, Lena!
