Culture Guide
Norwegian Wedding Traditions
Since we're celebrating in Norway, we wanted to introduce our American guests to a few Norwegian wedding traditions! Here's what to expect as we bring a little Norwegian culture into our big day:
Norwegian Time = On Time
Norwegians take punctuality very seriously! (Zach has learned this the hard way). Events generally start right on schedule. For example, the ceremony will begin at 4:30PM sharp. We recommend arriving no later than 15-20 minutes early to get settled.
Dinner is a marathon, not a sprint
Traditional Norwegian wedding dinners are sit-down affairs, with multiple courses and speeches throughout. Unlike some American weddings, there won't be dancing between courses. We'll stay seated through dessert before the party gets started!
Toastmasters
Norwegian weddings typically have a toastmaster who keeps the evening running smoothly, introduces speeches, and makes sure everyone knows what's happening next. Think of them as the evening's MC!
Kissing Games
Norwegians have a few playful wedding traditions, and many involve making the newlyweds kiss!
Clinking Glasses: When guests clink their glasses, the bride and groom must stand on their chairs and kiss!
Stomping Feet: When guests stomp their feet, the bride and groom must duck under the table for a kiss.
Bathroom Breaks: If the bride leaves the room, the female guests can sneak a kiss on the groom's cheek. If the groom leaves, the male guests get their chance to kiss the bride on the cheek!
Skål!
It means "cheers" and you’ll hear it a lot. Feel free to shout it whenever the mood strikes.
Jewish-American Wedding Traditions
Zach’s family is bringing a few Jewish-American traditions to the celebration! Here’s what to watch for:
Breaking of the glass
At the end of the ceremony, Zach will stomp on a glass wrapped in cloth. This is your cue! As soon as you hear it break, shout “Mazel Tov!” as loud as you can.
Mazel Tov!
It means “congratulations” or "cheers" and you’ll hear it a lot. Feel free to shout it whenever the mood strikes.
The Horah
When you hear “Hava Nagila” get on the dance floor! Everyone joins hands and dances in big circles, and the bride and groom will be lifted up on chairs above the crowd. Strong volunteers welcome. Please hold on tight!
Tips for Visiting Norway
A few helpful tips to make your time in Norway a little easier!
A mostly cashless country
Norway is almost entirely cashless! Credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, so there's no need to carry any Norwegian cash. Just make sure your card works internationally.
Tipping isn't expected
Unlike in the US, tipping isn't a big part of Norwegian culture. Service is generally included in the price, and while rounding up or leaving a small tip for great service is appreciated, it's not expected. No need for the usual 20%!
Long summer days
One of the best parts of visiting Norway in June is the daylight! Around our wedding on June 26, the sun won't set in Oslo until around 10:45 PM, and it stays light even later. Don't be surprised if it still feels like daytime well into the evening!
Pack for all kinds of weather
Norwegian summers can be beautiful, but the weather can be unpredictable! June in Oslo often brings pleasant temperatures, but cooler evenings and occasional rain are always possible. We recommend packing a light jacket or extra layer, just in case.