When thinking about the perfect elopement location that not only offers adventure, but an intimate and private setting against a backdrop that feels otherworldly and cinematic, I’m sure Iceland is what came to mind. And if not, let me show you and tell you why it is truly the most ideal place and incredible place to elope.
Here are some reasons why you might consider eloping in Iceland:
- Stunning Natural Landscapes: Iceland boasts some of the most extraordinary natural landscapes on the planet, including glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and volcanic terrain. The dramatic and ever-changing scenery provides a captivating backdrop for your elopement, creating unforgettable and cinematic moments.
- Intimate and Private: Iceland’s vast and untouched landscapes offer a sense of seclusion and intimacy. Eloping in Iceland allows couples to celebrate their love in a private setting surrounded only by the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, creating a truly personal and intimate experience.
- Unique Photo Opportunities: The diverse and dynamic landscapes in Iceland provide endless opportunities for unique and stunning photos. Whether it’s the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, exchanging vows in front of a cascading waterfall, or standing on a glacier, every moment becomes a work of art.
- Adventure and Romance: Iceland’s rugged terrain invites couples to embark on adventurous elopements. Whether it’s hiking to remote locations, exploring ice caves, or soaking in geothermal hot springs, the sense of adventure adds an extra layer of excitement and romance to your elopement experience.
- Northern Lights: For couples seeking a magical and otherworldly experience, Iceland’s winter months offer the chance to witness the Northern Lights. Being under the dancing colors of the Aurora Borealis creates a truly enchanting and romantic atmosphere that is like no other.
- Ease of Elopement Planning: Iceland has streamlined the process for couples to legally marry or elope, making it relatively straightforward for international visitors.
- Cultural Experience: Beyond its natural wonders, Iceland offers a rich cultural experience. You can incorporate local traditions into your elopement ceremony, and afterwards, explore charming towns and indulge in Icelandic cuisine for a well-rounded experience. The Icelandic hot dogs are the BEST!!
Now if you aren’t already convinced enough that eloping in Iceland is the best, let me show you what your wedding day can look like. When Emily and Nick first reached out to us, they asked for our assistance in picking the perfect location for their elopement as well as help crafting a day for them that felt adventurous, intimate and authentic to themselves. We collectively decided that Iceland would be the perfect location! In addition to photography and videography, we offer planning services to help curate your ideal elopement. For a couple weeks we researched and dove deep to discover all that Iceland had to offer. We provided airbnb and hotel suggestions, different locations to exchange vows, and even adventurous excursions or activities they could do while there.
Here are a few examples of ideas for excursions and activities that you might want to add to your epic iceland adventure!
- Helicopter ride over a volcano
- Hiking on a glacier
- Exploring a fishing village
- Watch the Northern lights
- Horseback riding
A few weeks before jetting off to Iceland, we finalized the details of their elopement and the itinerary that fit their perfect day. Emily and Nick’s elopement took place in early September, with the forecast typically being rainy off and on throughout the day. Something to note is that during most of the year, the weather can be unpredictable, so plan for flexibility in your trip if you decide you want to switch your days around. But don’t let this stop you from choosing to get married in Iceland, rain or shine this location creates the most epic adventure.
Emily and Nick stayed in an airbnb in Hvolsvöllur, Iceland, with the most picturesque backdrop. When pulling up on the gravel road the morning of the elopement, I swear both of our jaws were on the floor. Imagine this – you’re staying in this quaint, but modern airbnb, and you look out your window and you see huge mountains formed out of volcanic rock, covered in a green moss, with the most majestic waterfalls dipping over the cliff sides. We couldn’t believe our eyes. We couldn’t believe this place was actually real.
After capturing the morning Emily and Nick spent together getting ready, they shared an intimate first look against the mountainous backdrop. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room. Following the first look, we packed up and got ready to start the adventure. Our first location of the day was Kvernufoss falls. After researching all the incredible places to elope, this one was ideal because of the seclusion, accessibility, and intimacy it provided. We did a short hike though a moss covered canyon and came upon a tall roaring waterfall. It was breathtaking. In a heartfelt moment, Emily and Nick exchanged their vows, each word carrying the weight of their love and commitment. With grace and sincerity, they placed the symbolic rings on each other’s fingers, officially sealing the deal and embarking on the journey of a lifetime together. The atmosphere resonated with the profound significance of the occasion, as they embraced the beginning of their shared story, bound by the promises they made to each other.
Next we headed over to the iconic Reynisfjara Beach also known as the black sand beach. One thing you have to watch out for is the sneaker waves. They look calm but are in fact strong and can be very dangerous. They have a forecasting system as you enter the beach if it’s safe or not. Green means – good, yellow – caution, and red – dangerous. The tide lights were at a safe color, allowing us to go explore this magnificent wonder. This beach is not only famous for its jet black sand beach and unique rock formations, but the highlight is seeing the basalt column stacked rocks alongside the cliffs.
Following our time at Reynisfjara Beach we made our last stop at Dyrhólaey peninsula, only a short 20 minute drive away. When we arrived the rain started to come down for the first time of the day. We embraced the drizzling rain and managed to capture some of the most dreamy cliffside images overlooking the massive ocean. It was crazy to think in just a few short hours we went to multiple locations with such different distinct scenery. From a lush green canyon with a massive waterfall, to a jet black sand beach, to overlooking a cliffside with the most incredible rock archways. This is Iceland!
We ended our day with the most extravagant hot chocolate from the “Skool Beans” – essentially the cutest coffee shop that is literally in an old school bus. And then we concluded with a yummy, warm dinner at a local restaurant in the town of Vik. Talk about the most dreamy day!
Eloping in Iceland is more than a destination, it is an immersive experience that expresses itself through the dramatic landscapes, intertwining the love for adventure and intimacy, and rich culture. So, whether you’re drawn to the roaring cascades, the serene black sand beaches, or the dancing colors of the Aurora Borealis, Iceland provides a canvas for a celebration that transcends tradition and becomes a true reflection of your journey together.
As a destination photo- video team, we provide above and beyond experiences wherever your love story takes you. We become your one stop shop and main resource, as we additionally can help plan and curate your dream destination wedding. Whether you want to elope in Iceland, or wherever else you can dream of, reach out today by filling out our inquiry form linked below.
Photographer & Videographer: @turnerphotoandfilm
Airbnb: Seljalandsfoss Horizons
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