A Guide to Eloping in Iceland
I have been lucky enough to visit Iceland on a number of occasions and filmed an elopement in the country just last year. It is a truly magical country and one in which whatever way you point a camera it looks beautiful.
Read on for my thoughts and advice on eloping there:
The Country
There are countless reasons to choose Iceland as your eloping destination. Here are some that truly stand out for me:
Firstly, the sheer natural beauty of Iceland offers an unparalleled backdrop for your special day. Imagine saying your vows surrounded by the ethereal blue of a glacier lagoon, or beneath the cascading waters of a waterfall. The dramatic landscapes, glittering ice caves, and black sand beaches provide a stunning array of options for your ceremony location.
Secondly, the Northern Lights, one of nature's most breathtaking phenomena (and one I’ve yet to witness!) can add an additional layer of magic to your celebration. Nothing can quite match the awe-inspiring sight of these celestial lights dancing against the night sky. An elopement under the Northern Lights is not just an elopement experience, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Moreover, Iceland is a land of adventure. For those who crave something more than a traditional wedding ceremony, eloping in Iceland offers an opportunity to weave unique experiences into your experience. Whether it's hiking to a secluded hot spring, exploring the rugged highlands, or horseback riding on a black sand beach, these shared adventures can make your elopement even more memorable especially when captured in a movie like way by a videographer!
Also, the cultural richness of Iceland adds a unique charm to your elopement. Icelandic folklore, with its tales of elves and trolls, can add a touch of mysticism and intrigue to your celebration. Traditional Icelandic music, food, and customs can make your elopement a cultural immersion, providing a deeper connection to the land and its people.
Lastly, despite its remote location, Iceland is surprisingly accessible, with frequent flights from Europe and North America. The country's infrastructure is excellent, with a wide range of accommodations and services that can cater to diverse needs and preferences.
In conclusion, eloping in Iceland is for those who desire a wedding that's far from ordinary. Its unparalleled natural beauty, the magical Northern Lights, adventurous opportunities, rich culture, and accessibility make it the perfect choice for an extraordinary elopement.
My Tips for Eloping in Iceland
Iceland, a land of fire and ice, cascading waterfalls and ethereal Northern Lights, is an extraordinary destination for those couples who crave a unique elopement experience. With its rugged landscapes and dramatic natural beauty, Iceland offers an adventure that's both unforgettable and intensely personal. However it can also be a country of suddenly changing and challenging weather- the elopement I filmed there was during some very wild weather including rain, snow and strong winds but we embraced this and made it part of the film and I love the drama that it provided, you can see so from this teaser film I produced:
Planning Your Elopement Eloping in Iceland requires some careful planning. Here are some essential tips to consider…
Choose the Right Season
Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. While summer offers endless days and milder weather, winter has its own charm with snow-capped mountains and a chance to witness the Northern Lights. Beyond these two seasons, spring and autumn also have their unique charms. Spring sees the blooming of wildflowers across the island, while autumn paints the landscape in hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Hire a Local Planner
A local wedding planner with experience in elopements can help navigate permits, recommend hidden gems for ceremonies, and coordinate logistics. They can also provide assistance with local customs and legal requirements, as well as recommend the best local vendors for catering, and other services. If you need advice on this let me know as I have worked with planners in the country!
Pack Wisely
Remember to bring layers of clothing to adjust to Iceland's weather. Don't forget your hiking boots if you plan to explore Iceland's beautiful trails. Also, consider packing items such as a waterproof jacket, gloves, and thermal clothing to ensure you stay warm and dry regardless of the weather. I couldn’t have got through my winter elopement filming there without some heat packs for instance!
Ceremony Locations
There are countless breathtaking spots to have your ceremony in Iceland. From black sand beaches to glacier lagoons, the possibilities are endless. For a truly unique experience, consider saying your vows under a waterfall, inside a volcanic cave, or atop a mountain with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Food and Accommodation
Iceland is renowned for its unique gastronomy and exquisite local produce. Consider booking a local restaurant for your wedding meal to sample some of Iceland's best dishes. For accommodation, there are numerous options from cozy cabins to luxury hotels, each offering a unique Icelandic experience. I filmed in the town of Vik which had some lovely hotel options.
Conclusion
Eloping in Iceland is an unforgettable adventure. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, you can have a unique and personal ceremony amidst some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. The memory of saying "I do" under the Northern Lights or amidst the grandeur of Iceland's natural beauty will be a treasured memory that lasts a lifetime.
To see more about the elopement I filmed in Iceland head to my blog post here.
