Welcome to a Swedish Wedding: A Guide for International Guests

You’ve been invited to a Swedish wedding. You’re in for a joyful and memorable experience. While many aspects will feel familiar, there are some unique Swedish customs that might be new to you. Here’s a guide to help you feel prepared and enjoy the celebration to the fullest.

1. Dress Code

Swedish weddings tend to be formal affairs. For us, the most important thing is that you feel stylish yet comfortable all day. Please note that the weather in August is usually warm and sunny, but Swedish weather can be unpredictable. Fun colors and accessories are encouraged.

2. The Ceremony

The ceremony is at a church, but Swedes are among the most secular people in the world and the focus is rather on tradition than religion. It aims to be heartfelt and relatively brief, usually lasting no more than 30 minutes. After the ceremony and gathering outside the church to meet the newlyweds, don’t be surprised if there are fun activities between the ceremony and reception (TBD).

3. The Reception and Dinner

The dinner is the heart of the Swedish wedding celebration and will last several hours. Guests will be seated for a formal meal that will include multiple courses, speeches, songs, and surprises. Two toastmasters will serve as the evening’s emcee, guiding the flow of events with humor and precision. You may receive a printed program outlining the evening's schedule.

4. Speeches

One of the most distinct aspects of a Swedish wedding is the number of speeches. Unlike in American weddings, where only a few people typically speak, it’s common in Sweden for many friends and family members to give short, personal, and often humorous speeches or even performances. Make sure to let the toastmasters know if you want to hold a speech or do anything else during the dinner.

5. Fun Traditions

Swedish weddings often include playful traditions. For example, when a groom leaves the room, all the guests might line up to kiss the other groom on the cheek. These customs are meant to be lighthearted and fun, and participation is entirely voluntary. Any traditions that may take place are not up to the wedding couple, and guests, both Swedish and international, are welcome to introduce traditions to make the day special.

6. Toasting and Drinking

Toasts play a big role during the dinner. When it’s time to toast, make eye contact with those around you, raise your glass, and say “Skål!” You don’t need to drink every time if you’re not comfortable, but participating in the toasting and singing is part of the experience.

7. Dancing

Dancing typically begins after dinner, which may be quite late in the evening. The couple often opens the dance floor, after which the party shifts to more familiar dance music. Swedes love to dance and celebrate, and the festivities will to continue well into the night.

8. Gifts

We understand that many will travel far and we do not expect any gifts. Please know that your presence is the biggest gift to us. However, if you feel that you want to give us a gift, anything personal, creative, or fun is always welcome.

9. Language

The ceremony will be held in Swedish and the reception will mix Swedish and English. However, Swedes are generally happy to speak English and welcome any opportunity to practice. If you wish to practice your Swedish, the following words and phrases might be useful:

Cheers - “Skål”
Hi! My name is - “Hej! Mitt namn är”
Thank you! - “Tack!”
I come from Nebraska - “Jag kommer från Nebraska”
Where is the closest bathroom? - “Var ligger den närmaste toaletten?”

Final Tips

Be open to new experiences, whether it’s a traditional song or a quirky custom. Most importantly, relax and enjoy yourself. Swedish weddings are warm, joyful, and full of laughter, and your presence is truly appreciated.