The highly publicized wedding of Durek Verrett and Princess Märtha Louise of Norway captivated audiences worldwide. However, despite marrying into royalty, Durek did not receive a royal title following the marriage. It is important to note that males who marry into the Norwegian royal family are not granted royal titles and are not expected to perform royal duties. This decision was confirmed by the royal palace after the engagement of Durek and Märtha Louise was announced in 2022.
In a surprising move, Princess Märtha Louise also made the decision to drop the ‘royal’ from her title after stepping back from official duties in November 2022. This change was made five months after confirming her engagement to Durek. She is now simply styled as Her Highness Princess Märtha Louise on the family’s official website. The decision was made in order to differentiate more clearly between her personal activities and her relationship to the Royal House of Norway. As a result, she no longer represents her family on official business and had to relinquish all of the patronages she held at the time.
In an exclusive pre-wedding interview with HELLO!, Durek Verrett shared that he sought the blessing of King Harald V and Queen Sonja before proposing to Märtha Louise. He expressed his old school views on courtship, emphasizing the importance of respect in seeking permission for marriage. Durek recounted how the King and Queen asked him questions about himself and the future before ultimately expressing their approval. Märtha Louise also chimed in, highlighting that despite her age, her parents had always encouraged her to marry for love.
The marriage of Durek Verrett and Princess Märtha Louise of Norway may not have resulted in royal titles, but it has undoubtedly sparked discussions about tradition, modernity, and personal choices within the royal family. As the couple embarks on their journey together, it is evident that their union is guided by love, respect, and a commitment to forging their own path. Their story serves as a reminder that even in the realm of royalty, personal decisions and relationships remain at the heart of every union. For more insights into their relationship and wedding, pick up the latest issue of HELLO! available in the UK.
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