Priest Margit Lovise Holte prepares for wedding of Princess Märtha Louise in Sunnmøre

In the room behind the altar of Ulstein Church, Margit Lovise Holte’s white priestly gown hangs ready for a grand wedding on August 31. Holte has ensured it is free from any marks from christenings or outdoor worship services. “I was delighted and honored that they wanted to marry in a church ceremony and chose me as their priest,” she smiles.

Holte’s daughters attended the same school in Lommedalen, Bærum, as Princess Märtha Louise’s children, fostering a bond that began 19 years ago. Their friendship blossomed during playdates while both were juggling the demands of motherhood.

While it may sound glamorous to be friends with a princess, Holte dismisses this notion. Their relationship has been perfectly ordinary, founded on mutual support through the challenges of parenting. When Holte received a call from Princess Märtha Louise and Durek Verrett asking her to officiate their wedding, she was in the middle of arranging two funerals. Without hesitation, she accepted, not letting the royal connection overshadow the significance of uniting two friends.

The couple has chosen to marry in Sunnmøre, starting with guests in Ålesund before being transported by boat to Geiranger. Although the wedding has garnered considerable media attention, Holte perceives it as generally normal amid the intrigue.

Holte plans to follow the Church of Norway’s liturgy for the ceremony and has confirmed that the couple has chosen hymns and a biblical text. She anticipates an emotional day, admitting, “I’m a bit of a softie and can easily shed a tear.”

The wedding reception will be held at the Hotel Union Geiranger, where she humorously admits she might not recognize all the celebrities expected to attend. Finally, she hopes for a beautiful day with radiant sun and stunning scenery for the couple’s special occasion.