Norway princess and US shaman's wedding begins after years of 'turmoil'

The wedding of Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and her American fiancé, Durek Verrett, is finally happening after years of public scrutiny and personal challenges. The couple has been preparing for this special day, which began with festivities in Alesund, Norway, where they welcomed hundreds of guests for a meet and greet at a historic hotel. The couple, dressed in matching pink outfits, greeted their guests with warmth and joy. The wedding celebrations will continue in the picturesque town of Geiranger, known for its breathtaking fjords and mountains, where the couple will exchange vows in a private ceremony. Guests will enjoy a light lunch on a boat while taking in the stunning views of the natural landscape, making this a truly memorable occasion. Among the attendees are members of the Swedish royal family, social media influencers, and various television personalities, including the well-known reality star Cynthia Bailey. However, the couple has requested that guests refrain from using mobile phones or cameras during the celebrations, ensuring that the event remains intimate and private. Princess Märtha Louise, who is 52 years old, has three daughters from her previous marriage to the late writer Ari Behn. The couple divorced in 2017, and since then, Märtha Louise has faced significant public attention and criticism, particularly regarding her unconventional lifestyle and spiritual beliefs. Durek Verrett, who is 49, identifies as a shaman and has a unique approach to spirituality, which has drawn both interest and skepticism from the public. The couple announced their engagement in 2022, and since then, they have navigated a complex relationship with the media and the public. Märtha Louise has long been a controversial figure in Norway, especially after losing her title of 'Her Royal Highness' in 2002 to pursue her own business ventures. She has openly discussed her spiritual journey, including her claims of being clairvoyant and running a school that taught students to connect with angels. This has led to criticism, as many in Norway view such beliefs as unconventional. In a recent interview, she expressed that there has been a lot of 'turmoil' surrounding her choices, particularly her decision to embrace a different path than that of a traditional royal. Durek Verrett has also faced scrutiny, with many Norwegians questioning his statements and practices as a shaman. Despite the challenges, the couple remains committed to each other and their beliefs. They have chosen to have a traditional wedding ceremony officiated by a priest from the Norwegian Church, blending their spiritual beliefs with established customs. This decision reflects their desire to honor both their personal beliefs and the traditions of the royal family. The couple has also made plans to reside in Norway, having purchased a home together. They aim to create a clear distinction between their personal lives and the royal family's public image. In 2022, it was reported that they sought to clarify their roles and responsibilities, ensuring that their activities would not be confused with those of the Royal House of Norway. King Harald, Märtha Louise's father, has expressed support for their relationship, stating that he finds Durek to be a 'great guy' and appreciates the laughter they share, even during difficult times. However, the couple has faced backlash for their decision to exclude Norwegian media from covering the wedding, opting instead for exclusive deals with international publications. This has left many locals feeling disconnected from the event, as they believe the public should have access to the celebrations. Additionally, the couple has been working with Netflix on a documentary about their relationship, which they hope will showcase their love story to a global audience. Princess Märtha Louise is the eldest child of King Harald and is fourth in line to the Norwegian throne. Her younger brother, Crown Prince Haakon, is set to succeed their father as king. This wedding marks a significant moment for both the royal family and the people of Norway, as they navigate the complexities of modern royal life while staying true to their identities.