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OpinionSweden

What is so special about a Swedish Royal Christening?

It is a question that I have wondered since 2012 when we witnessed the christening of Princess Estelle in May.
In 2013 came princess Leonore, and in 2015 Prince Nicolas. Recently it was Prince Oscar’s turn to receive his first holy sacrament, and the feeling remains.

What makes the christenings of this royal house so appreciated by royal watchers throughout the world?

The Swedish Royal House gives us the chance to watch the whole ceremony live, from the guest’s arrival to the exit of the chapel. This is a service provided by SVT chain (you can still watch Prince Oscar’s christening here).

Estelle and Oscar were baptized in the Royal Chapel at the Royal Palace. This venue has also hosted the wedding of Princess Madeleine in 2013 and Prince Carl Philip’s and 2015. The Chapel is also chosen for many important religious services in the Bernadotte Family schedule.

Leonore and Nicolas were baptized in the Royal Chapel at the Drottningholm Palace. A smaller chapel, but still perfect for an intimate event of this nature.

There is another key ingredient to our obsession for Swedish royal christenings. This royal family can make a very formal occasion, be above all a very special family moment. Forgetting the presence of three priests, the Prince Wilhelm’s Crown on display, the family orders worn by the ladies, the christening gown, and other treats, what we see are family ties and moments which form part of my favorite time as royal watcher and blogger.

And than we have the details, right? That make all the difference. From the decor so well combined with the time of year, to the smaller chairs for children. Children that are increasing in number, as time goes by, and as children, they are not concerned with the royal protocol and provide us fantastic moments of pure sweetness (and treat, right Leonore?).

The elegance on a Swedish royal christening is also a key point. It is as if a convention to meet beautiful people at the same time, at same place is taking place. Pregnant or not, the Swedish ladies never disappoint. And they know, like anyone else, among each other and the children to pay beautiful tributes, small subtleties, with their clothes and accessories that perfectly fit the occasion.

And then, of course, when we get the chance to see a mini sash in another royal house? Placing the Saraphim Order Sash, is always the highlight of any Swedish Royal christening. And just that it’s enough for the entire royal community count the days until the next royal christening in Sweden.

A date has still not been announced for the christening of Prince Alexander, born in April. But I believe it will be soon (probably in July). And I bet that at the end of the ceremony, the feeling will be the same: The best royal christenings are indeed in Sweden.