How to Elope in Iceland, including answers to Iceland Wedding Rules: Can You Elope in Iceland?, When and Where to Elope in Iceland and more, from an Iceland Elopement Photographer.
It’s no longer a secret that Iceland is home to some truly epic landscapes. Shaped by volcanos, glaciers, and some seriously extreme weather, this Nordic country is like no other place on earth. More than that, those who have visited will know that Iceland really has an amazing energy to it. No matter what else is going on, it’s hard not to feel calm and grounded here – I’m not sure if it’s because of the landscapes, the beautiful architecture, or the kind people, but it’s just a super special place.
So, when Kendra & Todd called me to talk about their elopement, I was of course over the moon when they decided to plan their very own Iceland Elopement. And while sharing their story and their photos, I’d love to also share with you some tips for How to Elope in Iceland.
HOW TO ELOPE IN ICELAND | ICELAND ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER
Iceland Adventure Elopement
It will probably be a surprise to know that Kendra was actually my boss, way back when, at a little clothing store that I worked at during college. She was always so nice, like a Mom to all of us girls who worked at the store. Kendra was also one of the first people to pay me for photography – a session with her son – so I was really honored when she and Todd contacted me about their elopement. They had no idea where; they just knew they wanted to elope somewhere amazing. At first, they wanted to stay stateside, but when Todd mentioned Iceland, we knew we’d found the perfect location.
Iceland Wedding Rules: Can You Elope in Iceland?
Yes, you can definitely elope in Iceland! As long as you have a valid passport and an adventurous spirit, then we can make this dream happen. The next question is: is it important to you to get legally married in Iceland, or would you be happy with a symbolic ceremony? Getting married internationally can involve quite a bit of back and forth with bureaucracy, which is why I always recommend taking care of the legal documentation at home. That way, you can just enjoy your time in Iceland, without worrying about international documentation.
That said, if you do want to be legally married on the day of your Iceland elopement, it is definitely possible. We’ll just need to find the right Icelandic wedding officiant who can guide you through the process. Kendra & Todd found an Icelander to conduct their ceremony, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house – even if it was just the four of us (Kendra & Todd, myself and the officiant!).
When to Elope in Iceland?
The next question you should ask yourself for How to Elope in Iceland is when should you plan your elopement for? Kendra & Todd wanted to have a chance of seeing the northern lights, but they didn’t want to risk the crazy weather of the full winter season. This is why they opted for a March wedding – knowing full well it would be cold and the weather probably temperamental. They wanted some greenery, some snow, and the amazing blue of the Iceland Sea.
When you should elope in Iceland really depends on what you want! In the summer months, there are beautiful fields of Lupines that seem to blanket the countryside in purple. In winter, there’s a good chance at seeing the northern lights. No matter what you choose, one thing is for sure – an Iceland Adventure Elopement promises to be epic.
Where to Elope in Iceland
While Iceland is a relatively small country, you’ll be spoilt for choice for Iceland Elopement Locations! Kendra & Todd had never been to Iceland before, so a big part of planning their Iceland Elopement was deciding which locations to prioritize. In the end, they found a beautiful Airbnb not too far from Reykjavik, that they could also use as a base to explore the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. After their ceremony, they decided to treat their elopement like a mini road trip, just exploring the peninsula. Of course, we stopped along at Búõakirkja, the famous Black Church, Gatklettur, known as the arch rock, and we even tried to work our way up to a frozen waterfall that I’d scouted in the days before! But even in March, it was brutally cold and windy the entire day, and when Kendra’s foot fell through frozen ice into a stream below, we decided to call it a day.
If you decide to elope in Iceland though, there are so many other locations and itineraries you could choose from!
The Blue Lagoon
Kirkjufell
Westfjords
The Gerãuberg Basalt Columns
The list goes on!!
Your Iceland Elopement Photographer
If you’re considering planning your very own Iceland Elopement, I’d love to be your Iceland Elopement Photographer. I’ll not only document your day beautifully for you to look back on for life, but I’ll help guide you in planning the very best day. Just like I helped Kendra & Todd to choose a time of year, the best locations and more!
Do you have questions about How to Elope in Iceland? Or would you like to know more about booking me in as your Iceland Elopement Photographer? Let’s chat! Just get in touch.
Did you love Kendra & Todd’s Iceland Elopement Photography? Let them know in the comments below!