A Viking Wedding on May 22, 2010 united he and she, given Christian names of Jonathan and April ~~ who we know in the SCA as Magnus and Jorhildr of the Shire of Blackwood, Kingdom of Gleann Abhann

Marriage is like the beautiful winding road that led to Jimmie Davis State Park Group Camp on Caney Lake near Chatham, Louisiana where the wedding took place. Something interesting was revealed around each corner, something different seen beyond each rise of the road. Relatives and friends shared that view as they traveled those wildflower edged roads to share the joy as these two became one.

Not long before the hour of five and under sunny clear skies a resounding prelude sounded and participants processed down the slope toward the dock at the lake’s edge. Fighter’s shields stood sentinel to either side. Groomsman Mattheus atte Forge escorted Julian Floyd. Best Men Chris Robinson and William Howland escorted Rebekah MacGillivray, Matron of Honor and Sarah MacGregor, Maid of Honor. The Officiant was Justin McCready.

Magnus certainly appeared single minded, a determined Groom and entered without any pause. Lacking his familiar spectacles he awaited his Bride. On the arm of her Grandfather, Jorhildr was lovely with her long hair pulled away from her face in close and tight braids and curls falling down her back. Today’s white bridal gown is a modern tradition. The Viking Bride would wear her best brightly colored gown. Jorhildr chose crimson accented with black for both she and her groom. These Kingdom colors were also displayed by the attendants. Red Viking aprons over black under dress, with three handcrafted chains, red, silver and black strung between their turtle broaches. Bouquets fashioned by James en les Breres, the Beekeeper, with the help of Amelia featured white and red Alstroemeria, fresh green Bells of Ireland, Red Hypericum Berries, dusty green Eucalyptus, tiny cream star flowers, greenery and fern bound with plaited red and black silk rattail finished with petite black feathers. The men wore black tunics over white with black pants and red leg wraps. The dock on which the ceremony took place was no stranger to the arrival of a Viking ship or a bride. As is tradition in Viking weddings, this day the bride and groom would exchange blades. To begin such a family tradition, Magnus presented a finely crafted dagger to become that ancestral blade. Signifying family traditions it will be held in trust by Jorhildr for a son and the continuation of the bloodline. A new sword was presented by the bride. It symbolized the transfer of power, guardianship and protection from her father to her new husband. With rings exchanged, vows and I do’s repeated and then a gentle kiss, the newlyweds were introduced to the assembly.

The wedding feast that followed was created by Sara de la Petra with the help of many hands including Nonnie, Brigit and Sarah. Served to well-appointed tables with alternating red and black tablecloths, clear glass candleholders held white tapers. A menu of the five removes reflecting the grand feast of Crown List rested on each glass plate. Floral arrangements in Julep cups and a large spray at head table mirrored the ladies bouquets. Tiny tin buckets held manly-sized Viking tooth picks. Mason jar mugs personalized with images of a Viking ship, Gleann Abhann Ram, the date and couple’s names were offered for beverages and a souvenir. Hand fans identifying participants and notes on the ceremony were also gifted to those in attendance. Despite the knowledge that one must pace their consumption, with such a large array of excellent food, it was not an easy task. Fine cheeses, roasted chicken, tender, excellently seasoned pork, fantastic beef and scrumptious cakes were the highlight of each course. Traditional toasts were made. The General of the Gleann Abhann Army acted as our Hall Steward. Big John announced each remove and saw that serving ran smoothly. Harp and his lady acted as tenders of the bar. Servers also included James, as well as Ocho and Bards Alina and Melisande who sang for us. Those in attendance paid close attention to every word. The wedding cake was a multi-flavor, multi-tiered and multi-leafed cake. In addition to the confectionary leaves it featured a Viking ship on the sea, the green land and a tree holding two happy birds that made you smile. The groom’s chocolate cake had the appearance of the Roman Coliseum.

The SCA had been requested to wear Viking clothing and a number of family members did as well. Last minute sewing of such garb had continued both Friday evening and Saturday with wonderful results. Although a fighting list had been anticipated, the only marshal arts practiced were against a heavily duct taped Viking ship piñata. Both candy and an Odin’s eye hacky sack were revealed when finally opened. All enjoyed the lake scenery, each other’s company, recalled the six degrees of separation and made new friends. Seldom have guests been treated better. Congratulations to the happy couple.

Baroness Barbara Sterling
Historian and Guest

Baroness Barbara Sterling Historian and Guest

Baroness Barbara Sterling
Historian and Guest