The daughter of King Harald and Queen Sonja tied the knot on Saturday in front of 350 guests, including her parents and siblings. The couple's love story has faced challenges, but they have overcome them through their unwavering bond.
Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and longtime boyfriend Durek Verrett exchanged vows on Saturday in a lavish ceremony at the Hotel Union in Geiranger, Norway. The couple's wedding was attended by 350 guests, including Märtha Louise's parents, King Harald V and Queen Sonja, and her brother, Crown Prince Haakon, and his wife, Crown Princess Mette-Marit.
Märtha Louise's three daughters - Maud, 21, Leah, 19, and Emma, 16, were also in attendance. According to a press release obtained by Fox News Digital, pre-wedding celebrations included a meet-and-greet party, a boat trip along the Geiranger Fjord, and a salsa party at Hotel Union.
Princess Märtha Louise of Norway Marries Longtime Boyfriend Durek Verrett in Lavish Ceremony
In the lead-up to the wedding, Verrett expressed his excitement to the outlet Hello! magazine. "It's letting the world know this is the person I love in a declaration before family, friends, and God," he said. "Sealing our relationship in front of the universe is a strong spiritual declaration, and to do that surrounded by the people who love us and who we love, will be wonderful."
The wedding was a culmination of a love story that has faced its share of challenges. In 2022, Märtha Louise announced her departure from the royal house following "many questions relating to me and my fiancé's role." The mother of three, who is fourth in line to the Norwegian throne, became engaged in June 2022 to Verrett, an American who describes himself as a shaman and a healer.
Princess Märtha Louise of Norway Marries Longtime Boyfriend Durek Verrett in Lavish Ceremony
Queen Sonja and her husband, King Harald, addressed the press following their daughter's announcement. "Americans have no idea what a kingdom is," the queen said, according to Hello! magazine. "So, it's no wonder [Durek] doesn't realize."
"Americans don't understand the bearing of this here," she added. "They don't. He thought he could do whatever he wanted without compromising us at all."
Princess Märtha Louise of Norway Marries Longtime Boyfriend Durek Verrett in Lavish Ceremony
Despite the initial challenges, Queen Sonja expressed her support for her daughter's decision to step back from royal duties. "Even if we disagree on things, we are happy with each other," she said. "I have the feeling that the family is now very close to each other in a new, nice way."
In a heartwarming declaration, Verrett told Hello! magazine, "Our love has triumphed against all odds and will last forever." Märtha Louise added, "Love transcends all things because love is the original energy that we all are on this planet. It triumphs everything."
Princess Märtha Louise of Norway Marries Longtime Boyfriend Durek Verrett in Lavish Ceremony
The couple's wedding was a testament to their unwavering bond and their commitment to overcoming any obstacles that may come their way. It was a day of celebration and a symbol of their enduring love for each other.
