Princess Martha Louise of Norway wanted her 30th birthday to be unforgettable and, after a weekend of celebrations including two gala dinners, her wish was more than fulfilled.
A smattering of European royals, including Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, were on hand for the festivities, which kicked off on Friday evening with a bash at the Galleri Nygaten museum in Bergen. One hundred guests turned out for the glittering affair, including Crown Prince Haakon and his wife Mette-Marit, Prince Nikolaos of Greece and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark. However, this weekend most eyes remained on Martha Louise’s new love, author Ari Behn. While the princess has refused to confirm their relationship, her actions spoke volumes. To the delight of onlookers, the two shared a brief embrace – their first public display of affection since rumours of a romance first circulated early this year.
On Saturday guests enjoyed a cruise to the island of Lysoen where a small orchestra played outside the home of late Norwegian violinist Ole Bull. Upon returning to Bergen, Martha Louise and company toured the popular local market where the birthday gal was besieged with flowers from well-wishers.
The affair continued well into the night as Martha Louise and friends dined at the medieval Haakonshallen. Looking radiant in a two-piece dress, the princess showed her jovial spirit by sporting a skirt with the number 30 embroidered across the front. And while the party was certainly an upbeat occasion, the princess cancelled plans for a post-dinner dance out of respect for the victims of the tragedy in New York.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
