Dozens of residents of Marken, also called Merekers, put on their traditional costumes yesterday for a traditional ice wedding. It was a successful party that was sparked by photographer Jimmy Nelson. He was also present at the wedding.
The British photographer became world famous with his photos of endangered indigenous peoples for which he traveled all over the world. Last year he published a photo book with the Dutch traditional costume. Marken’s clothing also plays a major role in the book. Tess Zondervan, who grew up on the former island, even appeared on the cover of the book.
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The book sparked enthusiasm for the next ice wedding, which took place yesterday and was once again a great success. But what exactly is an ice wedding?
Pieter Pereboom of the Marker News explains: “An ice wedding is a reenacted wedding on the ice, now on grass, with different bridal couples, who are supposedly married by a registrar. It is not a real wedding ceremony, but it is a festive get-together. After the official part, all wedding guests receive a turban and a scoop from the bowl, accompanied by music and dancing.”
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The four bridal couples and more than two hundred and fifty wedding guests were musically accompanied by the Christian music association Juliana from the village hall Het Trefpunt to the ice rink site. Everyone was welcomed at the ‘wedding’ by master of ceremonies Cor Visser.
“A stop was made at the harbor, where photographer Jimmy Nelson had planned a group photo at this location. It took some effort to get everyone in the picture, but after more than fifteen minutes everyone was in the spotlight,” says Pieter. from the Marker News. “I took the photo below,” Pieter says enthusiastically. “Jimmy stood a little higher.”
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