Excitement is building for the upcoming wedding of Norwegian Princess Märtha Louise and her fiancé, Durek Verrett, an American self-styled shaman. The celebrations have commenced in Ålesund, Norway, where hundreds of guests are gathering for a meet-and-greet at a historic venue.
On Friday, attendees will embark on a scenic boat journey to Geiranger, a picturesque town located along a UNESCO World Heritage fjord. The wedding itinerary indicates guests will indulge in a light lunch while taking in breathtaking views of mountains and waterfalls.
The couple is set to exchange vows at a private ceremony on Saturday, with reports of attendees including members of the Swedish royal family, as well as various social media influencers and TV personalities.
Norwegian media indicate that guests have been asked to refrain from using mobile devices or cameras during the festivities, with a specific request to avoid sharing any details on social media.
Princess Märtha Louise, 52, and Durek Verrett, 49, announced their engagement in 2022. Märtha Louise, the eldest daughter of King Harald of Norway, was previously married to artist Ari Behn, with whom she shares three daughters. The couple divorced in 2017, following Behn’s passing in 2019.
The princess has faced scrutiny over her engagement in alternative therapies, leading to her losing the title of “Her Royal Highness” in 2002 to pursue business ventures. Her public declaration as a clairvoyant in 2007 further fueled controversy amidst traditional views in Norway regarding spirituality.
Märtha Louise expressed that her spiritual path has been met with backlash, especially given its unconventional nature in Norwegian culture. Meanwhile, Verrett describes himself as a sixth-generation shaman who looks to redefine the understanding of spirituality with straightforward teachings.
The announcement of their engagement sparked mixed reactions, with Märtha Louise pleading for acceptance of her choices in a heartfelt message emphasizing her love for Verrett.
Public sentiment toward Verrett remains divided, with many expressing skepticism about his unconventional claims and practices, as highlighted by a royal correspondent.
Despite their nontraditional beliefs, the wedding ceremony will adhere to traditional values, officiated by a parish priest according to the Norwegian Church’s precepts.
Following their engagement, it was reported that Verrett would relocate to Norway to join the royal family, though he would not hold a title. The couple has since acquired a property in the country.
In 2022, it was clarified that Märtha Louise would step back from her official royal patronage to better delineate her personal life from the Royal House of Norway, while retaining her title for social purposes.
King Harald has remarked positively on Verrett, noting their mutual understanding, despite differing views.
Questions have arisen over the princess’s decision to commercialize a commemorative gin label featuring her title, leading to public outcry regarding respect for the royal legacy.
As the wedding unfolds, concerns about media access have surfaced, particularly with Norwegian outlets being excluded from coverage due to exclusive agreements, leaving public interest at a standstill.
Additionally, the couple has been reportedly collaborating on a documentary that explores their relationship, an endeavor they believe will enhance their global outreach and resonate with audiences around the world.
