Celebrating Mistress Astrid’s Laureling: A Day to Remember

Every once in a while, the SCA gives us a moment that shines blazingly bright. Mistress Astrid’s Laureling was one of those moments for me. Astrid told me she wished to be surprised “in case of peerage” and that was no small task. Thanks to the hearts and hands of many, we did that/

Astrid’s elevation was done in a manner similar to that for a knighting on the field. I had cut her very long green belt in half to share with Tanneke during her belting. But, I refused to return Astriid’s half to her. The astonishment on her face was priceless when Their Majesties herald opened court and I begged the boon.

The Gifts of Many Hands

The day was filled with the pinnacle of many weeks of organization, artistry and generosity of time and effort.

Baroness Kathleen of Stonehaven loveingly stitched a Bayeux Tapestry–style embroidery on Astrid’s feldr shawl. She even trimmed the head feldr to match. It was an exquisite touch.

Master Kjarr and his team produced an extraordinary heraldic banner. He designed and wove part of it with HL Nghuala weaving the most. In a teachable moment, Aoibhe took the shuttle for a few passes. Felix Feyer crafted three Viking-woven metal circles to be placed in bend on the crest. Together, their work became an impressive showpiece of design and skill.

Mistress Xorazne and HL Aleit coordinated the tents, creating shelter and privacy. Their work made the outdoor setting both persona-appropriate and perfect for the venue.

Mistress Tatjana planned a Norse-style menu that, like in the 10th century, didn’t need refrigeration. She organized, created, transported and presented it all to Mistress Astrid’s many vigil visitors.

Mistress Aidan created an over the top scroll for Astrid. It looked like it could have come straight out of period both in design and materials. She designed it, crafted the text, and carried it through in calligraphy and illumination—a complete work of beauty.

The Threads of Community

Lady Tanneke Groenlaken, my new apprentice, made Astrid’s new Norse dress using woven trim by Lady Hilde. She also oversaw the guestbook and schedule—on top the multiple unnoted taskes she contributed.

Lady Hilde served as one of Astrid’s guards for an hour. Sir Falon also stood in that honorable role. The Baron and Baroness of the Lonely Tower, Charles and Kathleen, joined them in this duty.

And of course, there were the quiet helpers. The people who stepped in to lend a hand without a task title. Some did things en passant, while others tidied up as things wound down. Their contributions may not have been seen by all, but they were deeply appreciated.

This Laureling was not the work of any one person—it was woven together by friendship, artistry, and generosity. Every stitch, every stroke, every dish and act contributed to give Mistress Astrid a day she will never forget. And neither will I. That, I think, is exactly what our Society is meant to be