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The wedding festivities for Norwegian Princess Märtha Louise and her American fiancé, Shaman Durek Verrett, are well underway. The event has drawn attention both locally and internationally, with guests arriving in the scenic town of Ålesund for a weekend full of celebration.
The festivities began with a "meet and greet" at a historic hotel, followed by a picturesque boat ride to the UNESCO-listed Geiranger Fjord. Guests, including members of the Swedish royal family and various celebrities, were treated to stunning views of mountains and waterfalls as they sailed towards the wedding venue.
The couple, who announced their engagement in 2022, will exchange vows in a private ceremony on Saturday. Despite the couple's spiritual beliefs, the wedding will follow traditional Christian liturgy, officiated by a Norwegian parish priest.
Princess Märtha Louise, the eldest daughter of King Harald V, has long been a controversial figure in Norway due to her involvement in alternative treatments and spiritual practices. Her fiancé, Shaman Durek, has also faced scrutiny for his unconventional beliefs, including claims of rising from the dead. Despite the public's mixed reception, the couple remains steadfast in their love, and this weekend's wedding marks the next chapter in their unconventional relationship.
As the royal family navigates the balance between tradition and modernity, the wedding is a significant event, not just for the couple but for Norway's monarchy. With exclusive media deals limiting coverage, much of the event remains shrouded in mystery, but one thing is clear: this is a wedding unlike any other.