Winter elopement in Iceland | Michelle&Phillip
Why choose Iceland for a winter elopement?
Iceland has become one of the most popular destinations for couples looking to elope, especially during the winter months. Its unique blend of dramatic landscapes, otherworldly beauty, and cosy, intimate atmosphere makes it a perfect backdrop for couples wanting to celebrate their love away from the hustle and bustle of traditional weddings. For many, the idea of exchanging vows in a snowy, mystical setting is an unforgettable experience. But what makes Iceland particularly special for winter elopements?
When you think of winter, you likely picture snow-covered fields and frozen lakes. In Iceland, snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, offering dramatic, awe-inspiring views. From glacier lagoons to frozen waterfalls to icy beaches, Iceland’s diverse terrain takes on a magical quality during the colder months. It’s the perfect setting for couples who want to make their wedding day feel like something out of a fairytale.
And let’s not forget about the chance to witness the Northern Lights. This incredible natural phenomenon, which is visible in Iceland during winter, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. Imagine saying your vows under a glowing sky of swirling green and purple hues. This is one of the many reasons why Iceland is such a sought-after elopement destination for couples looking for something magical.
Winter also means fewer tourists in Iceland, which is a huge draw for couples seeking a more private, intimate experience. While the summer months can be crowded with visitors exploring Iceland’s famous landmarks, winter offers a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for an elopement. The lack of crowds allows couples to take in the scenery without feeling rushed, making it a much more personal experience.
Planning a Winter Elopement in Iceland
When planning a winter elopement in Iceland, weather is one of the most important factors to consider. Winter in Iceland can be unpredictable, with snowstorms and short daylight hours. While this unpredictable weather adds to the sense of adventure, it’s important to be prepared and flexible.
The weather in Iceland during the winter months (roughly from November to March) can vary greatly. One day might be clear and crisp with sunshine, while the next can bring heavy snowfall and winds. This is something my eloping couple Michelle and Phillip had to keep in mind when planning their elopement. They were drawn to Iceland’s winter beauty, particularly the chance to experience snow, but they understood that the weather might not cooperate with their plans. Luckily, they were prepared for any changes and kept an open mind.
For couples considering a winter elopement in Iceland, it’s essential to keep the unpredictable weather in mind. Building flexibility into your schedule is a must. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared for last-minute changes. In some cases, you might need to reschedule locations or adjust your timeline, so having a backup plan is always a good idea.
Michelle and Phillip, who were looking for a balance of adventure and intimacy, chose two incredibly scenic locations for their winter elopement: Thingvellir National Park and a secret waterfall. Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its striking landscapes and historical significance. It offered Michelle and Phillip a peaceful, snow-covered backdrop for their wedding portraits. The quiet atmosphere and dramatic surroundings made it the perfect location for an intimate ceremony and beautiful photos.
The secret waterfall they chose for their Asatru ceremony was another key highlight of the day. Iceland is full of hidden gems, and waterfalls are one of the most iconic natural features of the country. A waterfall ceremony in the winter months offers the opportunity to capture the raw beauty of Iceland’s winter landscapes, especially when the water is partially frozen, creating magical ice formations. Choosing a secluded spot like this allowed Michelle and Phillip to enjoy privacy and intimacy during their ceremony, making the moment even more special.
When it came to vendors, they knew they wanted to hire local professionals who were familiar with the unique challenges of winter elopement. They worked with an Icelandic wedding photographer (like myself) who could capture the raw beauty of their day, even in difficult weather conditions. Having a local photographer who understands the lighting, terrain, and winter-specific elements of Icelandic elopements was crucial. They also hired a wedding planner who was able to help with logistics and guide them through the process, ensuring that everything ran smoothly on the big day.
For couples traveling to Iceland for their winter elopement, hiring local vendors who are experienced with winter conditions and the local terrain is invaluable. A local wedding planner can help you navigate logistics, from securing permits for specific locations to ensuring that you have the right clothing and gear for the weather. Photographers who are familiar with Icelandic landscapes will also know how to make the most of the natural beauty, capturing your elopement in all its wintry splendour.
Snowy Elopement Day with Asatru Ceremony
Michelle and Phillip didn’t just seek a beautiful destination for their elopement – they were chasing the thrill of adventure. Coming all the way from Alabama, they craved the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland, hoping to experience the magic of a winter wonderland that was unlike anything they had ever seen. The weather was just as they had hoped—snowflakes swirling through the air, blanketing the world in pristine white. Iceland didn’t just meet their expectations; it turned their wedding day into a breathtaking adventure, one that would forever be etched in their memories.
Their snowy adventure kicked off with epic wedding portraits at Thingvellir National Park. During Michelle and Phillip’s elopement, Thingvellir was covered in snow, creating an almost otherworldly, serene setting for their wedding portraits. As they stood together in the snow, it was as if the world had paused just for them, leaving only the sound of their breath and the occasional crunch of snow underfoot. This was the ideal location for an intimate elopement – far away from crowds, surrounded only by nature’s quiet beauty.
After their wedding portraits at Thingvellir National Park, Michelle and Phillip travelled to a secret waterfall for their ceremony. Iceland is full of hidden gems, and this secluded waterfall provided the perfect backdrop for their Asatru ceremony.
The secrecy of the location added to the experience. There were no other tourists or onlookers, just the two of them and the beauty of nature surrounding them. The sound of the water falling was calming and meditative, enhancing the spiritual feeling of the ceremony. In this quiet and sacred space, Michelle and Phillip were able to exchange vows that were deeply personal, surrounded only by the Icelandic wilderness.
Asatru is the belief system of the Norse gods, including Odin, Thor, Freyja, and others, and it’s centred around honouring nature, ancestors, and the elements.
The Asatru ceremony is filled with symbolism. The couple pays respect to the four cardinal directions and the elements, including earth, air, fire, and water. These elements play a vital role in Icelandic culture and nature, which is why they are honoured during an Asatru ceremony. Each part of the ceremony reflects a different aspect of the couple’s union – their connection to each other, to nature, and to the larger universe.
One of the most powerful moments of the Asatru ceremony was the drinking from the horn. This tradition is symbolic in many ways. In Asatru, drinking from a horn, or "drinking from the horn of plenty," represents the sharing of life’s blessings, abundance, and good fortune. It’s an act of unity, binding the couple together not only in their vows but also in the shared joy of the ceremony.
For couples daring enough to elope in Iceland, embracing the country's rich history and ancient spiritual traditions can transform their wedding into an unforgettable adventure. Iceland isn’t just a destination; it’s a living, breathing experience that elevates every moment, turning it into a profound and personal journey. Michelle and Phillip’s snowy elopement, crowned by a powerful Asatru ceremony, is the perfect example of how Iceland’s untamed beauty and storied past can take a wedding day from beautiful to utterly magical.