Dreaming of a wedding that’s equal parts romantic, quirky, and effortlessly stylish? Welcome to Sweden, where wedding traditions are as charming as a Nordic fairytale, equality is key, and there’s a good chance your guests might kiss your spouse before you do!
Whether you’re considering a destination wedding in Sweden or just looking for inspiration, let’s dive into Swedish wedding traditions—from double rings to royal cakes and spontaneous kisses.
“Ja!” – Saying Yes, the Swedish Way
Forget the dramatic “Who gives this woman?” moment. In Sweden, couples walk down the aisle together—because love here is all about partnership, not ownership.
This beautiful tradition symbolizes equality, which is a cornerstone of Swedish culture. So, if you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels modern yet meaningful, Sweden’s got you covered.
And don’t expect a huge, over-the-top production—Swedes love intimate, heartfelt celebrations. Think idyllic countryside chapels, scenic archipelago ceremonies, or even cozy city hall weddings (yes, some are historic and incredibly beautiful!).
👉 Planning a wedding in Sweden? Check out Drottningholm Palace (https://www.kungligaslotten.se/) for a royal touch or Skansen Open-Air Museum (https://www.skansen.se/) for a rustic vibe!
Double Rings = Double the Commitment
Engagement rings? Check. But here’s the twist—both the bride and groom wear simple gold bands from the engagement onwards.
During the ceremony, the bride gets a second, often more intricate ring. Some even add a third ring later, symbolizing motherhood. So, three rings = engaged, married, future mom mode activated!
Fun fact: Swedish grooms sometimes skip the wedding band entirely and just stick with their engagement ring. Breaking stereotypes? We love to see it!
Forget the Bouquet Toss—Here Come the Kisses!
One of the most hilarious Swedish wedding traditions? If the bride or groom leaves the room, all guests of the opposite sex rush in for a quick kiss!
Yes, you read that right—if the groom steps away for a moment, all the male guests get to kiss the bride. And vice versa! It’s fun, unexpected, and guarantees some of the best wedding photos ever.
(Meanwhile, in other countries, people just wait politely at their tables. Boring!)
The Toastmaster: The MVP of Swedish Weddings
Forget the single best man speech—Swedish weddings are all about heartfelt, funny, and sometimes slightly embarrassing speeches from multiple guests.
Enter the Toastmaster, a carefully chosen friend or family member who keeps the speeches rolling, ensures the timeline stays on track, and keeps everyone entertained. Expect a mix of childhood stories, romantic moments, and, yes, a little playful roasting of the couple.
Pro tip: If you’re attending a Swedish wedding, be ready for speeches. Lots of them.
The Wedding Cake: A Sweet Nordic Surprise
Forget multi-tiered buttercream cakes. Swedish wedding cakes are all about simplicity and flavor. The top two choices?
- Prinsesstårta – A light sponge cake covered in green marzipan, filled with layers of raspberry jam, custard, and whipped cream. It’s as delicious as it is iconic.
- Kransekake – A tower of almond-flavored rings, often decorated with Swedish flags. This one’s a hit for couples who want something different!
Oh, and there’s no traditional cake-cutting ceremony. Swedes are practical—when the cake arrives, you just eat it.
👉 Want to try a slice before your wedding? Visit Vete-Katten in Stockholm (https://vetekatten.se/) for some of Sweden’s best pastries!
Ditch the Dowry—Bring the Coins!
Old Swedish tradition says that a bride should wear coins in her shoes for good luck. A gold coin from her father goes in her right shoe, while a silver coin from her mother goes in the left.
Comfortable? Absolutely not. Adorable and sentimental? 100%!
Wedding Attire: Crowns and Folk Dresses
While white wedding dresses are the norm, some Swedish brides opt for traditional folk dresses or wear a silver crown—a nod to historical customs.
Fun fact: Historically, crowns were only for virgin brides, but today, they’re worn for style and heritage, not purity tests. (Thankfully.)
Also, don’t expect bridesmaids and groomsmen—Swedes keep things simple, with just the couple standing at the altar.
Want to Get Married in Sweden? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re a foreigner looking to tie the knot in Sweden, good news—it’s totally possible! Here’s what you need:
✔ A legal certificate of no impediment (to prove you’re single)
✔ ID and passport copies
✔ If previously married, proof of divorce or widowhood
And if you’re dreaming of an outdoor ceremony under the midnight sun, summer (June-August) is the best season.
For a winter wedding, consider the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi (https://www.icehotel.com/)—a magical frozen wonderland where you can literally get married in a chapel made of ice.
FAQ: Swedish Wedding Traditions
❓ Can foreigners get married in Sweden?
✅ Yes! Sweden is one of the easiest countries in Europe for international couples to get legally married.
❓ Do Swedish weddings have bridesmaids?
✅ Nope! Swedish couples keep it simple with just the two of them at the altar.
❓ What’s the most unique Swedish wedding tradition?
✅ Definitely the kissing rule—if the bride or groom leaves the room, everyone gets a turn!
Want a Wedding That’s Uniquely You? Let’s Capture It.
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate Swedish elopement or a full-blown Nordic celebration, your love story deserves to be told in the most breathtaking way possible.
That’s where I come in! As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing raw, real, and unforgettable moments—wherever in the world your love takes you.
📸 Explore my wedding photography portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Check out my wedding photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s start planning your dream wedding shoot: Contact Me
Love is an adventure—let’s capture it together. 💛
