Copenhagen, 14 May 2004
The wedding Day
Order of service
Musicians:
The Copenhagen Boys’ Choir
The Copenhagen Royal Chapel Choir
The Church of Our Lady’s Choir
The Baroque Ensemble Concerto of Copenhagen
Cembalo: Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Flemming Dreisig, Cathedral Organist
Mads Høck, Organist
Palle Mikkelborg, Trumpet
Helen Davies, Harp
Conductor: Ebbe Munk
The Royal Life Guards Brass Ensemble, conducted by Peter Harbeck
The arrival of the guests from 14.30
Composition Duration Time
1) Wilhelm Peterson-Berger (1867-1942): Congratulations (Frösöblomster op. 16) FD 2.30 14.30
2) Otto Malling (1847-1915): Friede, A-major op. 75 FD 4.30 14.34
3) Percy Whitlock (1903-1946): 2 pieces; Allegretto/Sea Shanty MH 6.00 14.40
4) F. L. Æ. Kunzen (1761-1817): Poco adagio, F-major FD 2.30 14.48
5) W. A. Mozart (1756-1791): Ave Verum, for choir and organ EM 3.10 14.52 – Sung by The Copenhagen Boys’ Choir
6) L.Vater: Bryllupshilsen (Wedding Toast) 3.00 14.57 – Played by The Royal Life Guards Brass Ensemble
7) Edvard Grieg (1843-1907): Gavotte og Air (Holberg Suite)MH 6.00 15.01
8) Edward Grieg (1843-1907): Ave Maris stella, for choir, a capella EM 3.00 15.08 – Sung by The Copenhagen Boys’ Choir
9) Charles Gounod: Allegro Maestoso from the Wedding March from ‘Romeo and Juliet’ 3.00 15.12 – Played by The Royal Life Guards Brass Ensemble
10) Niels W. Gade (1817-1890): Tone Poem, C-major MH 2.00 15.16
11) Frederik Kuhlau (1786-1832): Sonatina, F-major op.55 FD 3.00 15.19
12) Benna Moe (1897-1983): Cantilena (1972) FD 3.30 15.23
During and immediately after the arrival of His Royal Highness The Crown Prince with His Royal Highness Prince Joachim, 15.30
Carl Nielsen (1865-1931): Festive Prelude to the Turn of the Century – 1900 – Played by the Royal Life Guards’ Brass Ensemble
Immediately following:
Niels W. Gade (1818-1890): Morning song of ‘Elverskud’ called ‘The Sun Rises in the East’ Sung by the Copenhagen Boys’ Choir, Conducted by Ebbe Munk. Ingemann’s text to the song ‘The Sun Rises in the East’ is probably the hymn which is best recognised in Denmark. Gade’s choral arrangement of it has become a permanent feature in the repertoire of most Danish choirs.
To music by both Carl Nielsen and Niels W. Gade, The Crown Prince and Prince Joachim will be welcomed with music by the two most famous composers in Denmark.
The Royal guests and members of the Danish government arrived, 15.40-15.50
Léon Boëllmann (1862-1897): Toccata for organ – Played by Flemming Dreisig. The composer Léon Boëllmann is recognised as leading the renowned French romantic organ tradition.
The arrival of the Donaldson family:
“Fill thou my life, O Lord my God”, Scottish hymn – The Copenhagen Royal Chapel Choir, Conductor: Ebbe Munk. The Copenhagen Royal Chapel Choir is one of the Cathedral’s two choirs. This choir sings for the daily radio church service on one of the Danish radio morning programmes.
The Donaldson family have Scottish roots and this hymn was chosen especially by the bride.
The arrival of Queen Margrethe II and Prince Henrik, 15.53
Antonio Soler (1729-1783): Fanfare fra Seis Conciertos para dos organos. Played by the Royal Life Guards Brass Ensemble with the Cathedral Organist, Flemming Dreisig
This piece was popular with the Spanish Royal court as early as the 1700’s. The composer was also employed at the Spanish Royal Family’s summer residence at Escorial. It was originally written for two organs. On this occasion is performed from the Royal Box by the Life Guards, and the Cathedral’s grand organ, by the Cathedral organist.
Duration: approximately 3 minutes.
The bells chime to announce the arrival of the bride – lasting 4 minutes, 16.00
During the arrival of the bride, Mary Donaldson, and her procession into the Cathedral: G.F.Händel (1685-1759): Zadok the Priest. Coronoation hymn for choir and orchestra Sung by The Copenhagen Boys’ Choir, The Baroque Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen, cembalo, Mads Høck, organ. Conductor: Ebbe Munk.
This work was written for the coronation of King George II in London in 1727 and is one of the most magisterial choral works to be found in the traditional music of the Anglican church.
Hymn No. 402 (in the Danish hymnal), verses 1,3,4 5 and 7
The blessed new day with joy we see from out of the deep ascended. Now brightens the sky by slow degree: our hearts with its cheer are mended. It shows in us all, each child of light, that now the dark night is ended.
That sacred sweet hour, that midnight dear,
our Lord in the flesh took dwelling,
away in the east the sky shone clear,
the rosiest dawn excelling:
thus broke forth the light which earth’s dim sphere
shall shine with, all gloom dispelling.
If life were but giv’n each greenwood tree,
each leaf as a tongue resounded,
yet could they not voice half worthily
the praise of God’s grace unbounded:
for old and for young the Light of Life
shall shine, in all ages founded.
To God our good Father thanks shall wing
as lark in the rosy dawning –
for day, that from night he deigned to bring,
for life, when the grave stood yawning.
May all of our lives, in Jesus’ name,
be sweeter for this blest morning.
Go stately along, our festal day,
your brow with a glory glowing:
so time rolls, at God’s behest, away
as brook through the meadow flowing,
until at the end it grateful winds
where green linden-trees are growing.
When day from the dead returns anew,
like gold is the sun’s ascending,
but gold is its kiss at even too,
with beautiful crimson blending,
rekindling a spark in eye grown dim,
a blush to the pale cheek lending.
So journey we on to our Father’s land
where day never sleeps benighted,
to dwell in his city proud and grand,
in mansions of gold delighted,
and blissful remain for ever more
with friends in the light united.
The Blessing, prayer and the Lesson from the Bible
By Bishop Erik Normann Svendsen
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ,
the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit
be with all of you.
Let us pray:
Lord our God, heavenly Father,
we thank you for the gift of life,
and for all who have shown us love
from our childhood until this day.
We pray you:
Give us always what we need
and daily renew our love to one another,
through Jesus Christ, our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the
Holy Spirit,
one true God forever and ever. Amen
It is written:
When God had created heaven and earth, the sea, the
sun, the moon and the stars, all plants and animals, he
said, ‘Let us make humankind in our image, according
to our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish
of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the
cattle, and over all wild animals of the earth, and over
every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.’ So
God created humankind in his image; in the image of
God he created them; male and female he created
them. And God blessed them.
And our Lord Jesus Christ says:
Haven’t you read that the one who made them at the
beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘For
this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and
be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one
flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore
what God has joined together, let no one separate.
And the apostle Paul writes:
Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will
fulfill the law of Christ. As God’s chosen ones, holy and
beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness,
humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another
and, if one has a complaint against the other, forgive
each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you
also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love,
which binds everyting together in perfect harmony.
Hymn: ‘Eternal Father’
The text has been translated into Danish. Arranged in 2004 on the occasion of the Royal Wedding, for congregation, choir and organ, by Chris Hazel, London. This hymn is amongst the most popular in the Anglican church, known particularly as the Navy’s hymn.
Eternal Father! strong to save,
Whose arm doth bind the restless wave,
Who bid’st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
O Saviour, whose almighty word,
The winds and waves submissive heard,
Who walkedst on the foaming deep,
And calm amid its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
O sacred Spririt, who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
Who bad’st its angry tumult cease,
And gavest light, and life, and peace:
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger’s hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe’er they go,
Thus ever let there rise to Thee,
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea!
Sermon, preached by Bishop Erik Normann Svendsen
Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (ca.1525-1594): Sicut cervus.
The Copenhagen Boy’s Choir. Conductor: Ebbe Munk.
This motet has been used by the Danish Royal Family for several generations. It has been performed at many major religious ceremonies, such as Queen Margrethe and Prince Henrik’s wedding in Holmen’s Naval Church, at King Frederik IX’s funeral in Roskilde Cathedral and at Prince Joachim and Princess Alexandra’s wedding in Frederiksborg Castle Chapel. On all these occasions it has been performed by the Copenhagen Boys’ Choir.
The responses and the service of Holy Matrimony
Officiated by Bishop Erik Normann Svendsen
I now ask you Frederik André Henrik Christian, will
you take Mary Elizabeth Donaldson, standing by your
side, to be your wife? – I will!
Will you love and honour her, and live with her in
prosperity and adversity, in what fortune God, the Almighty,
will send you, as a husband should live with his
wedded wife, until death parts you? – I will!
Likewise I ask you Mary Elizabeth Donaldson, will you
take Frederik André Henrik Christian, standing by your
side, to be your husband? – I will!
Will you love and honour him, and live with him in
prosperity and adversity, in what fortune God, the
Almighty, will send you, as a wife should live with her
wedded husband, until death parts you? – I will!
Then join your hands together.
Since you have promised one another that you will live
together in marriage and have now confirmed this before
God, and before us who are present, I declare you
to be man and wife before God and all mankind.
The bride and bridegroom exchange rings.
While the bride and bridegroom kneel, the pastor lays his hand on their heads and says:
Let us pray:
Dear heavenly Father! Grant this man and this woman
grace, happiness and blessing in soul and body.
Grant that they may love one another with faithful love
and serve you sincerely in all things, that they may live
as your dear children and finally be gathered unto you
in the eternal mansions.
Hear us in the name of Jesus:
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation
but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours,
now and forever. Amen.
Peace be with you.
Palle Mikkelborg (1941-): ‘Simple Prayer’
Arranged for the Royal Wedding for solo trumpet, harp, soprano and choir.
Helen Davies Mikkelborg, harp
Palle Mikkelborg, trumpet
The Copenhagen Boys’ Choir
Originally ‘Simple Prayer’ is the finale of a major choral work, ‘A Noone of the Night’ which Palle Mikkelborg composed for the Copenhagen Boys’ Choir and Ebbe Munk, in 1997. In recent years this work has been performed around the world in concerts and has also been performed in the bride’s home country, at the world famous Sydney Opera House. ‘Simple Prayer’ is one of the texts by the holy Saint Francis of Assissi.
The third Hymn: No 703, “It is so lovely to walk together”, Singing verses 1,3 and 5
How sweetly beckons the path ahead
For two whose wish is to live together,
Our joys are double when we are wed,
When shared our sorrows weigh but a feather.
Oh yes, ‘tis merry
To travel, married,
When we are carried
On wings of love!
‘Tis truly splendid that we today
Know God has everything in His powers;
He’ll not forget us when we are grey,
O’er every people His grace does tower.
Oh yes, ‘tis merry
That we, when married,
Accept, unparried,
God’s word of grace
Each loving couple who celebrate
Their wedding day in the name of Jesus,
Though ups and downs in the world await,
Will find what daily to them is precious:
It is so merry
To settle, married,
When all is carried
On flames of love.
Prayers and responses and the blessing
Officiated by The Royal Chaplain, Dr. Christian Thodberg.
These prayers and responses are another of the powerful traditions used at religious occasions by the Danish monarchy. These are prayers with an interchange between the priest and the choir. The music stems from the early 1600’s and though sung in Danish, is very similar to a tradition originating from Durham Cathedral in northern England.
Let us pray.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
Christ, have mercy upon us.
Lord, have mercy upon us.
O Lord, shew thy mercy upon us.
And grant us thy salvation.
O Lord, save the Queen.
And mercifully hear us when we call upon thee.
Endue thy Ministers with righteousness.
And make thy chosen people joyful.
O Lord, save thy people.
And bless thine inheritance.
Give peace in our time, O Lord.
Because there is none other that fighteth for us, but
only thou, O Lord.
O God, make clean our hearts within us.
And take not the holy Spirit from us.
Praise ye the Lord.
The Lord’s Name be praised.
Let us pray.
We thank thee, dear heavenly Father, that thou hast
instituted holy matrimony, and we beseech thee that
thou wilt preserve this thy ordinance and blessing
unshaken also amongst us. Grant that all Christian husbands
and wives may, by thy holy Spirit, help one another
to cling to thy saving grace. Make them to rejoice
in hope, to be patient in tribulation, and to continue
instant in prayer; and strengthen them that they may
be living members of thy holy church, and so at last be
gathered together with thee in thy kingdom . Amen.
The Lord be with thou. And with your spirit.
The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make
his face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; The
Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you
peace! Amen.
The great “Amen” after the blessing originates from Palestrina’s “Marcellus Mass”, from the middle of the 1500’s.
Hymn No. 11 “Now Thank We All our God”
Now thank we all our God,
With hearts and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things hath done,
In whom the world rejoices;
Who from our mother’s arms
Hath blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love,
And still is ours today.
Oh, may this bounteous God
Through all our life be near us,
With ever joyful hearts
And blessed peace to cheer us,
And keep us in His grace,
And guide us when perplexed,
And free us from all ills
In this world and the next.
All praise and thanks to God
The Father now be given;
Praise to the Son and Him
Who reigns with them in heaven;
Praise to the Trinitarian God
Whom earth and heav’n adore;
For thus it was, is now,
And shall be evermore.
The Bridal Couple left the Cathedral, 17.00
Charles-Marie Widor (1845-1937): Toccata 5. Organ symphony played by Flemming Dreisig.
Since the wedding of Queen Margrethe and Prince Henrik in 1967, Mendelssohn’s famous “Wedding March” has found itself in tough competition with this brilliant and virtuoso French organ piece. It was most recently used by the Danish Royal Family at the wedding of Prince Joachim and Princess Alexandra.
Queen Margrethe II and Prince Henrik left the Cathedral, 17.06
Richard Wagner (1813-83): Ouverture to Act III of “Lohengrin”. Arranged for the Cathedral’s grand organ by the Cathedral Organist, Flemming Dreisig.
Whilst the wedding guests leave the Cathedral
1) Louis Vierne (1870-1937): Finale, D-major of Symphony No 1.MH 6.00 17.09
2) Jean Langlais (1907-1991): Carillon de Westminster MH 5.00 17.15
3) Louis Vierne (1870-1937): Carillon de Westminster MH 6.00 17.20
4) Alexandre Guilmant (1837-1911): Marche nupitale FD 6.00 17.26
5) William Mathias (1934-1992): Processional MH 5.00 17.32
6) Benna Moe (1897-1983): Hymn of Praise (4th movement of Alpine Suite) FD 3.00 17.37
7) Benna Moe (1897-1983): Sheperds’ Flutes(2nd movement of Alpine Suite) FD 3.00 17.40
8) Charles Marie Widor (1845-1937): Finale, G-major af Organ symphony No.6. MH 7.00 17.43
The sermon by the Most Reverend Bishop of Copenhagen Erik Norman Svendsen
Dearly beloved
Dear Crown Prince Frederik and Mary Donaldson
Entering Copenhagen Cathedral today must surely be an overwhelming feeling for a bride and bridegroom. Numerous couples have done so before, and for them too it has been a breathtaking experience. This is especially so for the bride, who has to make the long walk up the aisle while the excited eyes of all present are resting on her. And millions in Denmark and all over the world will watch this couple today on television.
When I entered this church twelve years ago to be consecrated Bishop, I felt exactly the same. During the first hymn, as I was sitting here in the chancel with Bishop Græsholt, who consecrated me, he whispered smilingly: ‘Are you enjoying it?’ and without waiting for my answer he continued: ‘You might as well do so, since your are here anyway!’ I tell you, that helped!
Amidst the massive turnout of people and media, even a royal couple should be able to enjoy their own wedding. Enjoy and rejoice that you have found one another and have been joined together, and today you are confirming this before man and God. Enjoy and rejoice that so many are following this event with genuine interest and sympathy. You are not only today’s couple but also the couple of the year in Denmark: there is no doubt about that. You are the symbol of life and happiness, youth and love. Somehow, we all take part in your joy and happiness, as we follow the events of the day. Hence the great expectations towards this wedding, and therefore we all – great and small – take part in the joy.
A royal couple does not belong solely to each other, but to all of us. We feel it, and you know it. Great assignments and many obligations await you, who will continue the Danish monarchy and thereby the Danish social structure. It is of crucial importance that this is maintained and renewed at a time marked by internationalisation and globalisation. Every monarch and every sovereign couple in Denmark has in the course of time contributed to the society we know and acknowledge today. That is why the monarchy is so firmly established with the Danish people.
When the Danish people take part in this wedding today with such great joy and enthusiasm, we do so trusting the cultivation and education of our bride and bridegroom for this task. As a naval officer Crown Prince Frederik knows Admiral Niels Juel’s motto: ‘Nec temere, nec timidi’, i.e. ‘neither reckless, nor timid’. This is a motto which Mary Donaldson too is acquainted with, as she has left her own country and continent to join us in the far north to become Danish.
But it is true even for a Crown Prince and his bride that they first and foremost belong to each other for better and worse. It is not good for man to be alone, as it is written. We all need confidantes to share life with, and nowhere is this realized as intimately and with such mutual giving as in marriage. We need to be attentive and allow each other the necessary space to talk confidently. This peaceful space is often scarce in modern society, where the opportunities for recreation and the demands for participation in the numerous chores of daily life soon take up twenty four hours a day. This is no less true of a Crown Prince and Princess, who are unable to appear in public without being noticed and watched. However, we must all share the responsibility that our Crown Prince and Princess find the possibility to enjoy peace in each other’s company, even when the honeymoon is over.
Dear Mary Donaldson! You have come to us from the far side of the Earth. From the beautiful and mountainous Tasmania to the low-lying lovely Denmark. Both of our countries are characterized by the imminent sea and the changing seasons. We are looking forward to show you your new country when it is most beautiful in the delightful summer time, when you and the Crown Prince on board the good ship Dannebrog will be visiting town and country. Afterwards the journey takes you north, that you may see with your own eyes, that not all the kingdom of Denmark is lowland, but that it also includes Greenland. Here you will meet a nation that like the Faroe Islands is part of the Danish kingdom, but with a history, language and culture of their own. More than anything else the monarchy is binding the three nations together in a Danish commonwealth. Everywhere you and the Crown Prince will be received with open arms and candid curiosity. We are a little curious, when we have visitors from the wide world. From today you are a real princess who has got both the prince and all the kingdom.
We can almost continue with the words of the fairy tale: ‘And they lived happily ever after’. But nothing in the real world is as uncomplicated as in the fairy tales. We all know that from our own lives, and there is no reason to hide it. Joys and sorrows both belong to human life, as do good and evil days. This is why we need one another and need to be encouraged and comforted and to give comfort and encouragement to others. Living happily has less to do with feelings than with life succeeding in something good and fruitful. Thus, in spite of many encounters during the course of a lifetime, we are allowed to experience life as meaningful, because we make a difference, primarily in the close commitments like marriage, friendship and relationships.
That is the purpose of our lives as it was given to us by God, the Creator of life. For it is God who has granted us life and entrusted us with one another. Therefore we shall not live as masters of our own lives, but live in the light of the Word of our Lord i.e. live in love as our Lord Jesus said and did himself. Therefore the exhortation of Holy Scripture: ‘Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony’ (Col. 3,14). That love embodies compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. It even makes us bear with and forgive one another.
Though, we are often distracted, we must strive for this love. But God’s tender and life-giving love through Jesus Christ will confirm us in striving for his love. Every time we fall short in our relations with other people, God will forgive us in his love and urge us to love again. Therefore we worship at a wedding. We hope to be revived by the Word of God, so that we shall not be blinded by our capacity for worry and sadness. We hope to regain hope from all the faith, hope and charity which Jesus brought to the world.
Every time we enter this Cathedral church, we are strongly reminded about this because everything comes together in the sculpture of Christ over the alter table. His head is bowed towards us and his eyes rest upon us. When we are gathered here at the alter, it is as if we look Christ right into his eyes, and we see him with his hands receiving us tenderly with the assurance: ‘Come to me’ as it says with capital letters underneath.
For even more well known than the sculpture of Christ by Thorvaldsen, which is known in all world, are the words by Jesus: Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest’ (Matthew 11,28).
It is of importance to remember this in the complex human life. It makes us listen when we need it most. The encouragement to come to Christ is not meant as an assurance of a life without any problems, but a promise that he will be with us always and share those burdens that we are responsible for, and he will carry the unjustified tribulations that might torment our lives. In him we will find peace even when life is troubled. To come to Christ is to accept love when it is most clear and pure, and so we regain strength to live with the duties that we were entrusted with. Trusting this, we can begin both married life and every new day God gives us to live.
Floral decoration in the cathedral
The Church of Our Lady, Copenhagen Cathedral, is built in a strict classicist style and the floral decorations are based on the architecture of the church, with respect for its lines. The decoration of the church has been carried out in close co-operation with Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II and floral designer, Mr Erik Buch.
Outside, in front of the Cathedral: Old, cone-shaped laurel trees, five metres high.
In the foyer of the Cathedral: Decorative laurel trees with four-leafed clover at the base.
Flowers in the nave of the Cathedral: red roses ‘Black Magic’, red roses ‘Red Unique’, red carnations ‘America’, pink carnations ‘Castelara’, orange and pink carnations ‘Solora’, flecked rusty orange carnations ‘Bodega’, dark red carnations ‘Sangria’, red and yellow gloriosa lilies, pink peonies, pink Dicentra Spectabilis (‘Bleeding heart’), pink Lathyrus (‘Sweet peas’), red ranunculus, blue Scilla (Blue Bells of Scotland), ivy, rhododendron, eucalyptus and spheres and droplets of ivy leaves.
On the Alter and Chancel steps: Blue Bells of Scotland, Snow gum, crooked-leafed Australian Eucalyptus. These flowers are specially dedicated to the bride.
Carriage ride and balcony scene
After having been outside near the cathedral together with Dag and Christine all afternoon and managing to see glimpses of the guests, bride and groom – the bride even passed us by car on her way to the cathedral – I decided to use the pool card I got for the carriage ride of bride and groom. I managed to get at the Rådhus Square very quickly and luckily the wedding was shown on a big screen there, so I was able to see almost the whole ceremony.
After the ceremony bride and groom left the cathedral and stepped in a horse-drawn carriage (a Barouche) that was built by Jos Neuss in Berlin in 1906. It was also used at the wedding of Queen Margrethe II and Prince Henrik of Denmark in 1967. The coach was drawn by six Kladruber hroses that were driven à la Daumont. The outriders, Royal Coachman Ole Mortensen and Royal Coachman Henrik Steinmann used another two Kladruber horses. Postilion riders were Royal Head Coachman Jens Christiansen, Royal Coachman Erik Kofoed and Royal Coachman Poul Erik Petersen. Royal Footmen Torben Nielsen and Steen-Flemming Meier were in the footmen’s seat.
The newly wed couple’s coach was escorted by the Royal Danish Guard Hussar Regiment The escort included the Regiment’s standar and 48 horses. They wore the red full-dress uniform. The regiment’s Commanding Officer Colonel J. Kidde-Hansen rode behind the coach together with the Commandant of Copenhagen.
After the carriage ride Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary appeared at the balcony of Amalienborg together with (step) parents. Although it seemed almost impossible I managed to reach the square just in time to see it and to be a part of the shouting and cheering crowd waving with Danish and Australian flags. There were two appearances and a few kisses so everybody was quite satisfied.
The wedding dress and other attires
Wedding dress
The bridal gown is made of white duchess satin which shines like mother-of-pearl. The gown is made up of long panels that open 10 centimetres from the waist, and are sewn in such a way that between each panel old lace, which is almost 100 years old, can be seen. The lace originates, as does the veil, from nuns in Connaught, Ireland. The luminous mother-of-pearl colour of the satin tones perfectly with the old lace.
The sleeves are called ‘Cala-sleeves’ by the designer, Uffe Frank, because they fold around the arms like the Cala lily.
8 metres of the old lace has been used for the gown itself, and 24 metres of duchess satin which is fully-lined with silk organza. 23½ meters of duchess satin has been used for the train, which is 6 metres long measured from the waist. The material has been doubled and stiffened with 15 metres of heavy organza. Additionally, 31 metres of tulle has been used to hold the skirt out at the back. This tulle has been edged and finished with 100 metres of chantilly lace from France.
Uffe Frank was trained at the College Arts and Crafts in Copenhagen in 1985 and thereafter studied for a year at the Royal College of Art in London, where he continued his studies to become a designer. Previously he had been apprenticed to the legendary haute-couture designer, Jørgen Bender, who for many years had created and designed the grand gowns for the Danish and Swedish Royal families. Uffe Frank has also worked for Birger Christensen, and in the fashion houses of Valentino and Giorgio Armani. Today has his own studio in Milan, Italy. The bridal gown was created according to Mary Donaldson’s own ideas and wishes, in close co-operation with Uffe Frank.
The Tailor Birgit Hallstein is 34 years old and is a fully qualified tailor working with the Danish fashion designer Lars Andersen. This is a craft with proud traditions, which Birgit Hallstein continues to follow in her work with the Crown Princess’s bridal gown. Birgit Hallstein has been a fully trained tailor for 13 years and works with all aspects of the process, from sewing and cutting, and from haute couture to theatrical costumes.
Bridal Veil
The veil is of Irish lace which, with two pieces of lace bordering, a handkerchief and a fan, was a gift to the late Queen Ingrid’s mother, Crown Princess Margret of Sweden. She had used the veil and the lace for her wedding in St. Georges Chapel, Windsor on 15 June 1905. Queen Ingrid also used these pieces (the wide and narrow lace on the train) for her own wedding in Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral) in Stockholm on 24 May, 1935. Queen Anne-Marie used the veil and only the narrow lace on her gown for her wedding in Athens on 18 September 1964. Queen Margrethe also used the veil and only the wide lace on her gown for her wedding in Holmens Naval Church on 10 June 1967. Princess Benedikte used the veil and also the wide lace on her gown for her wedding in Fredensborg Place Chapel on 3 February 1968. The veil has since been worn by Princess Alexandra zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg on 6 June 1998 and by Princess Alexia of Greece, on 9 June 1999.
Jewelry
The bride’s tiara is a gift from Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness the Prince Consort.
The future Crown Princess has had a new pair of earrings made for her wedding. The earrings are made of platinum with brilliant-cut diamonds and South Sea Island pearls. They are hand-made by the jewelry designer, Marianne Dulong.
The Handkerchief
On her wedding day the bride has chosen to carry a very beautiful lace handkerchief made by the lace-making teacher, Astrid Hansen. The pattern is a well-known Tønder pattern (Tønder is a small town in southwest Jutland where the finest lace is made) called ‘The great heart of Denmark’. When the engagement was announced on 8 October 2004, Astrid Hansen began her work on the handkerchief. Astrid Hansen worked 6 hours a day. The plan was that the lace should be completed by Easter and on Easter Monday the last needle was set and the lace removed from the pins.
The Bridal Bouquet
The bridal bouquet is composed to include a hint of Australian flowers. The shaft is of plaited silk ribbon with a silver circlet at the top, on which the monogram of the Royal couple and the date of their wedding has been engraved. This is the very personal touch given by the floral designer, Erik Buch.
Flowers in the bridal bouquet: Scented white roses of a newly propagated sort No. 0807-1, antique roses, stephanotis, hanging acmea – filicaules, sprays of muehlenbeckia – with stephanotis flowers, cream lathyrus (sweet-peas), rhododendrons and azaleas from Fredensborg Palace, myrtle (also called orange-blossom) from old myrtle plants now at Fredensborg Palace. The late Queen Ingrid brought these myrtle plants from her home in Stockholm, flowers from the orange trees at Fredensborg Palace, spirea specially grown at Graasten Palace (normally flowers in June and July), green gloriosa lilies; also Australian Flowers, snow gum – crooked-leafed Australian eucalyptus, and Australian eucalyptus with berries.
Uniforms of Crown Prince Frederik and Prince Joachim
Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark was dressed in the gala uniform of the navy, and wore the Grand Order of the Elephant with the Star of the Order, and the Cross of the Grand Commander, with the Star of the Order, and all other decorations.
His Best Man was his brother Prince Joachim of Denmark, who was dressed in the gala uniform of the infantry. He also wore the Grand Order of the Elephant with the star of the Order and all other decorations.
Bridal staff
Bridesmaids
The bridesmaids were Miss Mary Elizabeth Donaldson’s two elder sisters, Mrs Jane Alison Stephens and Mrs Patricia Anne Bailey, and her friend Miss Amber Petty.
Flower Girls
The flower girls were the daughters of Mary Donaldson’s sisters: Erin Stephens (8 years old) and Kate Stephens (6 years old), and Madisson Woods (8 years old).
Pageboys
There were two pageboys: Prince Nikolai of Denmark (4 years old), eldest son of Prince Joachim and Princess Alexandra, and Count Richard von Pfeil und Klein-Ellguth (4 years old), son of Count Jefferson-Friedrich von Pfeil und Klein-Ellguth and Princess Alexandra zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg.
Dresses and Suits
The bridesmaids’ dresses have all been designed by Mr Uffe Frank, and Queen Margrethe II and Miss Mary Donaldson have chosen the colours of the dresses. The flower girls all had hand-made silk roses in their hair designed by Madelaine Schnack.
The pageboy’s small suits, which have been designed using a suggestion from Queen Margrethe II, have buttons similar to Danish naval uniforms.
The Bridesmaids’ and Pageboys’ Jewelry
The adult bridesmaids wore earrings in gold and brilliant-cut diamonds, garnets and South Sea Island pearls. At the top of each pearl there is a leaf shape in gold.
The flower girls wore bracelets of gold with charms of rubies and a long butterfly pendant in gold. The pendant hangs down into the palm of the hand. In this way they can clench their fists around the butterfly if they get a little nervous. The butterfly has the monogram of the Royal Couple engraved on it.
The pageboys each wore silver cuff-links with a hammered gold sphere, with the monogram of the Royal Couple engraved on it.
The jewelry is a gift from the Crown Prince and his fiancée to their bridesmaids, flower girls and pageboys. It has all been hand made by jewelry designer Marianne Dulong.
Wedding Banquet at Fredensborg, 14 May 2004
Menu
Timbale of Shellfish from the Nordic Seas
Sea Urchin Sauce
***
Roast Venison from the Royal Forests
Rissole Potatoes from Samsø
Peas à la Parisienne
Sauté Mushroom and Morel Sauce
***
Vol-Au-Vent Perfect Union
White Danish Asparagus and Bornholm Chicken with a Sprinkling of Apple Cider
***
White Chocolate Délice
Crown Prince and Crown Princess
***
La Cigaralle du Prince Consort 2000
Cahors Château de Caïx 1996
En Magnum
***
Champagne Mercier
Cuvée Frederik & Mary
Music
Den Kongelige Livgardes Musikkorps Fuzzy Kronprins Frederiks Honnørmarch C. Nielsen – Ouverture of “Maskarade” E. Waldteufel – Amour et Printemps, Valse célèbre E.Grieg – Bryllupsdag på Troldhaugen (Weddingday at Troldhaugen) H.C. Lumbye – Amorin Polka arr. P.M. Harbeck – Australian Potpourri L. Bernstein – “One Hand, one Heart” from “West Side Story” A. Södermann – Bryllupsmarch (Wedding March) P. Graninger – The Brisk Young Sailor H.C. Lumbye – Mary Galop
Brudevals
After the dinner bride and groom danced the ‘brudevals’ (bridal waltz) from the ballet Et Folkesagn by N.W. Gade. During the waltz the family and friends standing on the side of the room come closer and closer and at the end bride and groom have only little space left to dance.
The speech of Prince Henrik of Denmark during the dinner
As I welcome our guests from near and far I do so in a spirit of joy. This is a significant day as our eldest son begins his life’s journey together with the woman of his choice. A significant day as we sense the entire nation taking part in his resolution, a resolution of great importance not only for the future of the young couple but for all the nation.
Therefore it is a pleasure for the Queen and me to assemble members of our family, heads of state with strong family-ties and friendship, representatives of government and public life in Denmark as well as close friends from all over the world.
You are all most heartily welcome to this celebration.
There is no doubt that the shining star of this beautiful day is you Mary, full of grace and charm. In finding the way to the heart of our beloved son, Frederik, you have followed your own heart as well as your instinct.
I have noticed from the first encounter with you, your reserve, your sense of duty that matches the strength and mastery of your feelings – these are important qualities in your coming life that opens its official gates to you on this happy day. Welcome in our family and in our hearts where you will always find a warm refuge if you need it.
We are happy to see you surrounded by your closest family and friends from far away who have chosen to be with you and to encourage you on this special day as you begin your new life in Denmark.
I bid a warm welcome to all our guests, close family, representatives of related royal houses, official representatives and friends from all four corners of the world.
On this joyous day in Denmark all who are gathered here around the newly-wed Crown Prince and Crown Princess rejoice with us in the choice of our son and join us in showing them their affection and in wishing them all happiness.
Lastly I want to tell you, Frederik, how happy I am for you on this day. I perceive in you the same joy that I felt on the day your mother and I exchanged our vows. From a distant island you bring a fresh and lovely flower to grace our Danish isles, I know that you possess the qualities to make that flower thrive and flourish here with us.
My warm congratulations to both of you and a hearty welcome to all.
The speech of Queen Margrethe II of Denmark during the dinner
The day has come! – A day of happiness and celebration, which we have all looked forward to since the Engagement in October. Indeed, many will say that it has been much longer. Actually, as his parents, the Prince Consort and I have probably always looked forward to the day when our eldest son would stand before the altar together with his bride, and we would welcome her into our home, into our family and in our country.
Frederik, ever since you were very young, you have been surrounded by love and affection both in your family and throughout the country; but as Denmark’s Crown Prince you have also attracted much attention from an early age, that has not always been easy. However, over the years we have seen how you have developed, how you have matured, and how you have found your own place in life through solid work and by using the many qualities with which you are so richly endowed. You have a warm heart which strikes everyone who meets you. You inspire confidence. You are a person to rely on. Much of this is the result of your own efforts. However, we your parents, Papa and Mother, know very well how you have found your true self. That happened when you met Mary. It brought springtime into your heart, and everything blossomed around you, as we see season in full bloom on this day in May.
Mary, today all Denmark welcomes you with open arms, and your new family welcomes you with great joy. We have come to know you, and we have seen how your cheerful disposition graces your every act. You have met us, your new family and all your new countrymen, with warmth and great dignity. You too inspire confidence, around you too the Garden of Denmark is decked with flowers.
On this day of celebration, there are two people who are greatly missed: your mother, Mary, who we never came to know, and Mormor, your grandmother, Frederik, who did not live to see Mary come into your heart and into your country. On this day, these two as well as your French grandparents, Grand-Papa and Grand-Maman, will be in the thoughts of all who knew them, and I believe they would all have rejoiced at seeing your happiness, and would have appreciated your choice.
Mr. Donaldson,
This is a day of celebration in which we all share, but for you and for your family it is not without a note of sadness; for one person is greatly missed: Mary’s mother, who we in Denmark shall never know, but who should have been at her daughter’s side on this day of happiness.
No wonder if you and your family may feel a touch of apprehension; for it is also the day when your last and youngest daughter is leaving her family, as she has already left the country where she grew up, to settle very far away. Now she takes up a new and challenging life. Her new countrymen receive her with enthusiasm, not only as Crown Prince Frederik’s bride but also for the qualities they already perceive in her. As we have come to know Mary we, her parents-in-law, have come to love and admire her. She has great inner strength and she exudes a calm warmth that inspires confidence. She has shown the courage to place her future life in Denmark, may we always be worthy of her trust. The Prince Consort and I
welcome her into our family and in her new country.
Frederik and Mary, you face many challenging tasks. First of all you have a home to build together, and a life of your own; at the same time you are embarking on a life filled with demanding obligations, of that you are both well aware. It can be hard work, and it may feel lonely. That you know, Frederik, and Mary is aware of it. However, you have your youth, your great strength, your warm hearts and your courage; and you know how much pleasure may be derived from doing a good job, from doing something for others, from devoting all your strength to the service of your country – and from doing it with a smile.
Now is the season of flowers. All around you, there is great joy and happiness. But it will not always be summer. There are rainy days and rough weather, and in spite of fresh breezes, the Danish Garden may sometimes feel a little cramped, however lovely it may look. But tonight there are no bounds. For it is not only here at Fredensborg Palace that we are gathered around you. Throughout the country, in the Faroe Islands and in Greenland, indeed as far away as in Australia, your wedding is celebrated. Let us now bring together our thoughts in wishing you great happiness and unity in your lives and in your work – together and for Denmark.
I ask you all to join the Prince Consort and me in a toast to Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary.
THE BRIDE AND BRIDEGROOM
The speech of John Donaldson during the dinner
Your Majesties, Your Royal Highnesses, Distinguished Guests, Famliy and Friends,
In the 12th Century, the marauding Vikings were driven out of Scotland after much savage fighting by a band of men led by the grandfather of the first Donald the founder of the Clan MacDonald. He would have wondered why he went so much trouble when, some 8 centuries later, we take account of today’s union between the Viking Frederik and Mary of the MacDonald Clan.
For almost 4 years, my wife, Susan, and I, have watched the relationship grow to full bloom, culminating in this magnificent occasion.
Mary made a reluctant entry into the world but ever since she has eagerly embraced its offerings. Growing up under the combined influences of her mother, Henrietta, and her grandmother Mary, she has grasped every opportunity to broaden her horizons and has developed into a wonderful woman with many fine attributes. Memories abound of the bonding between Mary and her mother, the daily tours on the backseat of a bicycle around Clear Lake City when we lived in Texas, the many early, very early, car journeys down to her first loves of her life, her horses in Tasmania and the myriad communications when she moved after her graduation from the University of Tasmania to Melbourne. Henrietta would have been so happy for Mary on this her special day.
Min datter er meget smuk, tres belle, not only, as is obvious, in appearance but in many other ways including how she cares for her family and friends and the manner in which she is approaching the exciting and exacting task that lie ahead. I am the proud father of a very loving daughter.
Although fathers these days have little say in such matters, It is with great pleasure and confidence that I entrust her to the care of Frederik, an intelligent, sporting, debonair, delightful young man – what more could a father-in law ask? To Frederik, velkommen to our family. I offer a verse for your reflection from the Scottish National bard, Robert Burns
‘To make a happy fireside clime
to little ones and wife
that is the true pathos and sublime
of human life.’ [1]
Your Majesties, your Royal Highnesses, friends, please join with me in a toast to the Bride and Groom wishing them a long and happy life together.
[1]From Robert Burns: ‘Epistle to. Dr Blacklock’
The speech of Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark during the dinner
(the first part of the speech, until ‘Dear Mary’ was held in English)
Your Majesties, Your Royal Highnesses, my Dear New Family.
Dear John,
What a privilege, what a thrill, what an extraordinary feeling of happiness you have created in me. One might say that Mary also belongs to you – but as of today: she belongs to me – and I belong to her.
But there is much more to that sentence than just words.
It signifies the end of a period of freedom, of trial and error, where accountability was up to me alone. The sentence also has another side which is only just beginning. To me it means responsibility, trust and sharing.
By allowing me to take Mary’s hand and lead her onwards in a new life for better and for worse, you have shown me that you trust me to be capable and responsible in that act throughout life – it’s called love. For that I am very grateful to you.
I love her and I will protect her with all my heart. I will do my best to make her feel confident and at home in her new country.
Dear Mary,
In the year 2000 in Sydney, 5 Olympic rings were united for the 25th time. Australia at that time was an unknown and undiscovered continent for me – symbolised aptly by the fifth and lowest Olympic ring. I found myself in an unknown country amongst happy, festive foreigners. My only luggage at that time was my high expectations of my visit, and a certain degree of confidence.
Almost 200 years earlier another Dane, called Jørgen Jürgensen, arrived under completely different circumstances, but with just as high hopes and just as much confidence. He left Sydney quite soon after and sailed to Tasmania – your own country – one of the states of Australia. Here he managed to create a reputation for himself which ultimately led to his death.
I had only been in Australia two days before our fates were sealed, even though neither of us was aware of it. But your radiance shone clearly for me from our very first meeting. Since then I have been blinded and totally dependent on it.
Until that moment in my life, I had been striving to achieve greater independence, without limiting any of my freedom. My opportunities were plentiful, and my world was often lonely. But both were continually strengthened in time and in space because my curiosity and positive faith in the definitive, the ultimate, drove me onwards.
Then you walked into my world, and already much has happened. Now, there are two worlds – possibly even more – which from now on we will explore together, side by side. In light and darkness, in summer, autumn, winter and spring – always.
The joy and strength you give me is like the sun in the daytime which, with its radiance, melts all doubts and darkness on earth. And like the moon at night, you shine with a watchful and delicate beam of gentleness, which extinguishes the mischief and deceit used by the symbols of darkness.
I often like to compare the dawn’s light on a new day with the rebirth of the untouched, the inexperienced, and the innocent. A little naive perhaps – but nevertheless it is wonderful to pretend that everything begins anew. A new world is born again with the light of a new day.
This moment is ‘us’ – the two of us – newly together, young together, innocent together, in love together – simply ‘together’.
You give me security, joy and happiness.
I am almost bubbling over with curiosity as to what the near and distant future has in store for us – and it is you who must answer.
But I will try to control myself, for two questions have already been answered with a simple ‘Yes’ from us both. It is an answer which will hold good for us always. And if we need light in our search for answers, all we need to do is to lift our eyes and look towards heaven. There lies eternity, which can always show us the way back to the path which sometimes we lose.
I love you Mary. Come, let us go! Come, let us see! Throughout a thousand worlds, weightless love awaits. [1]
Your Majesties, Your Royal Highnesses,
May I ask you all to rise, and join me in drinking a toast to my bride.
[1] From Lars H.U.G.’s song ‘Kysser Himlen Farvel’ (Kiss heaven goodbye) from 1987
Guestlist
Family members
- Queen Margrethe II and Prince Henrik of Denmark
- Prince Joachim and Princess Alexandra of Denmark
- Princess Benedikte of Denmark and Prince Richard zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg
- Prince Gustav zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg
- Princess Alexandra zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg and Count Jefferson-Friedrich von Pfeil und Klein-Ellguth
- Princess Nathalie zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg
- King Constantine and Queen Anne-Marie of Greece
- Princess Alexia of Greece and Mr Carlos Morales Quintana
- Crown Prince Pavlos and Crown Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece
- Prince Nikolaos of Greece (and Miss Tatjana Blatnik)
- Princess Theodora of Greece
- Princess Elisabeth of Denmark
Family of Crown Princess Mary
- Professor John and Mrs Susan Donaldson
- Mr Craig and Mrs Jane Stephens
- Mr Alexander Stephens (theatre and wedding ceremony only)
- Miss Erin Stephens (theatre and wedding ceremony only)
- Miss Kate Stephens (theatre and wedding ceremony only)
- Mr Scott and Mrs Patricia Bailey
- Mr Michael Woods (theatre and wedding ceremony only)
- Miss Maddison Woods (theatre and wedding ceremony only)
- Mr John Stuart and Mrs Leanne Donaldson
- Mr Ben Moody
- Mrs Margaret Cunningham née Donaldson
- Mr Peter and Mrs Alison Donaldson née Thompson
- Miss Alison Donaldson
- Mrs Catherine Murray
- Dr Roy Pugh née Donaldson and Mr John Pugh
- Mr Jack Maton and Mrs Barbara Maton née Allan
- Mr and Mrs Brendon Johncock née Jacqueline Donaldson
- Dr and Mrs Barry O’Grady
- Mr and Mrs Derek Syme
- Mrs Andrew Weitnauer
- Mrs Margaret Howard née Donaldson (theatre and wedding ceremony only)
Family of Prince Henrik
- Mr and Mrs Claude Bardin
- Mr and Mrs Guillaume Bardin
- Mr and Mrs Xavier Bardin
- Mr and Mrs Antoine Bardin
- Mr and Mrs Jérôme Beuste
- Mr and Mrs Jacques (Maurille) Beauvillain
- Mr Bénoit Beauvillain
- Mr Louis Beauvillain
- Mr and Mrs Pierre Beauvillain
- Mr and Mrs Thomas (Mie) Beauvillain
- Mr Vincent Beauvillain
- Mr and Mrs Vincent Diego
- Count and Countess Jean-Baptiste (Gill) de Laborde de Monpezat
- Count and Countess Etienne (Isabel) de Laborde de Monpezat
- Count Arthur de Laborde de Monpezat
- Count Bertrand de Laborde de Monpezat
- Miss Clemence de Monpezat
- Marquis Florent de Laborde de Monpezat
- Miss Gwenola Thierry
- Count Grégoire de Laborde de Monpezat
- Count Raphaël de Laborde de Monpezat
Royal and noble guests
- Prince Aga Khan
- Archduchess Francesca of Austria
- Mr Robert de Balkany
- King Albert II and Queen Paola of the Belgians
- Prince Philippe and Princess Mathilde of Belgium, Duke and Duchess of Brabant
- Prince Lorenz of Belgium, Archduke of Austria-Este and Princess Astrid of Belgium
- Prince Laurent and Princess Claire of Belgium
- Count Carl Johan and Countess Gunnila Bernadotte af Wisborg
- Duke and Duchess of Bragança
- Crown Prince Kardam and Crown Princess Miriam of Bulgaria
- Duke and Duchess of Calabria
- Christian Castenskiold (theatre and wedding ceremony only)
- Prince Fernando Ferrara Pignatelli di Strongoli
- Prince Ernst August and Princess Caroline of Hannover (Monaco)
- Prince Philipp von Hessen
- Princess Xenia zu Hohenlohe-Langenburg
- Shahbanou Farah Pahlavi of Iran
- Michael Frederik Iuel and Désirée Iuel née Princess zu Schaumburg-Lippe (wedding ceremony only)
- Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan
- Prince Wenzeslaus of Liechtenstein
- Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg
- Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg
- Prince Guillaume of Luxembourg
- Mrs Thyra Moes
- Hereditary Prince Albert of Monaco
- Mr John Alexander Seymour Munro and Silvia Munro née Holstein-Ledreborg (theatre only)
- Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands
- The Prince of Orange and Princess Máxima of the Netherlands
- Prince Constantijn and Princess Laurentien of the Netherlands
- King Harald V and Queen Sonja of Norway
- Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway
- Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and Mr Ari Behn
- Count and Countess Alexandre Pozzo Di Borgo
- Prince Georg Friedrich of Prussia
- Prince Dimitri and Princess Dorrit Romanoff
- Count Christian and Countess Anne Dorte af Rosenborg
- Mr Thomas Christian Schmidt and Countess Josephine af Rosenborg (wedding ceremony only)
- Mr Mikael Rosanes and Countess Camilla af Rosenborg (wedding ceremony only)
- Mr Eric Patte and Countess Feodora af Rosenborg (wedding ceremony only)
- Count Ingolf and Countess Sussie af Rosenborg
- Countess Ruth af Rosenborg
- Count Axel and Countess Jutta af Rosenborg (wedding ceremony only)
- Countess Charlotte af Rosenborg
- Countess Karin af Rosenborg and Mr. Mikael Warberg
- Countess Marina af Rosenborg
- Count Valdemar af Rosenborg
- Count Nicolaj af Rosenborg (wedding ceremony only)
- Prince Vittorio Emmanuele and Princess Marina of Savoy
- Prince Wilhelm and Princess Ilona zu Schaumburg-Lippe
- Prince Christian zu Schaumburg-Lippe (threatre only)
- Princess Eleonore zu Schaumburg-Lippe (wedding ceremony only)
- Queen Sofia of Spain
- The Prince of Asturias and Doña Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano
- Infanta Elena of Spain and Don Jaime de Marichalar Duchess and Duke of Lugo
- Infanta Cristina of Spain and Don Iñaki Urdangarín Duchess and Duke of Palma de Mallorca
- King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden
- Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden
- Prince Carl Philip of Sweden
- Princess Madeleine of Sweden
- Baron Christian de Watteville-Berckheim (wedding ceremony only)
- Mrs Paul Annick Weiller
- The Earl and Countess of Wessex Crown
- Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of Yugoslavia
Other interesting guests
- His Excellency Richard Butler, Governor of Tasmania and Mrs Richard Butler
- Madame Bernadette Chirac
- Tarja Halonen, President of Finland, and Dr. Pentti Arajärvi
- His Excellency Major General Michael Jeffery, Govenor-General of Australia and Mrs Michael Jeffrey
- Mr Richard Manley and Mrs Christa Manley
- Mr Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, President of Iceland, (theatre only) and Mrs Dorrit Moussaieff
- Miss Amber Petty
- Sir Roger and Lady Moore (theatre only)