How to plan your Iceland elopement.
In this “How to plan your Iceland elopement” ultimate guide, there are the following chapters:
1.) Brief overview of the growing trend of destination elopements
2.) Why elope in Iceland
3.) Planning your trip to Iceland
4.) How to officially get married in Iceland
5.) How to Choose Your Elopement Location in Iceland
6.) Ideas to Make Your Iceland Elopement Special
7.) Iceland elopement packages
8.) Choosing your Iceland elopement photographer
Growing trend of destination elopements
In a world where love knows no boundaries, couples are increasingly choosing the path less travelled for their wedding vows. The trend of destination elopements is on the rise, offering couples a unique and intimate way to say "I do" against the backdrop of stunning landscapes and cultural wonders. One destination, in particular, has captured the hearts of adventurous couples seeking a truly unforgettable experience – Iceland.
Traditionally, weddings were grand affairs, often involving elaborate ceremonies and extensive guest lists. However, a new wave of couples is redefining matrimony by opting for destination elopements, a trend characterized by its simplicity, intimacy, and a sense of wanderlust. Escaping the conventional trappings of a traditional wedding, these couples are drawn to the idea of exchanging vows in far-off, breathtaking locales, with Iceland emerging as a leading choice.
Nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, Iceland is a land of ethereal beauty and untamed landscapes. From cascading waterfalls and glaciers to black sand beaches and the dancing Northern Lights, Iceland presents a natural canvas that is as diverse as it is awe-inspiring. It's no wonder that couples seeking an elopement destination are increasingly turning their gaze toward this magical island.
Iceland's beauty transforms with the seasons, making it a year-round destination for elopements. Spring brings vibrant greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer offers the enchantment of the Midnight Sun. Autumn paints the landscapes in warm hues, and winter blankets the country in a pristine coat of snow, creating a fairy-tale setting for couples seeking a winter wonderland ceremony. The versatility of Iceland's beauty ensures that each couple can find their perfect backdrop, no matter the time of year.
The growing trend of destination elopements is a testament to the evolving desires of couples who seek a wedding experience that is as unique as their love story. Iceland's captivating allure, with its natural beauty, cultural richness, and practical appeal, makes it a top choice for couples daring to step away from tradition and embark on a journey of intimacy and adventure. As the trend continues to flourish, more couples will undoubtedly find themselves drawn to the enchanting landscapes of Iceland, ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Why Elope in Iceland: Stunning and Unique Experience
In the realm of unconventional love stories, the decision to elope in Iceland emerges as a compelling narrative, weaving together the threads of stunning landscapes, intimate experiences, and a dash of adventure. Why Iceland, you ask? Well, let's embark on a journey through the land of fire and ice, exploring the myriad reasons why couples are choosing this enchanting destination to say "I do."
The Kaleidoscope of Landscapes:
Iceland is a country where nature flaunts its artistic prowess in a myriad of ways. From the majestic glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park to the surreal beauty of the glacier lagoons, where icebergs glisten like precious gems and close by you can find volcanic sands, every step in Iceland unveils a new chapter in nature's grand narrative.
Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of a black sand beach, the raw power of the Atlantic Ocean echoing your promises. Or perhaps, standing together by a private waterfall, feeling the spray on your faces as you declare your eternal love. The landscapes of Iceland are a stunning symphony of contrasts – from the vibrant greens of Þingvellir National Park to the alien landscapes of the Krafla volcanic region. Choosing to elope in Iceland means immersing yourselves in a visual feast where every location tells a story, and every vista is a work of art.
Your Love, Your Way
One of the most compelling reasons couples choose Iceland for their elopement is the promise of intimacy and a deeply personal experience. Iceland, with its vast and untouched landscapes, provides couples the opportunity to exchange vows in seclusion, surrounded only by the whispers of the wind and the breathtaking beauty of nature.
Whether it's a quiet ceremony by the serene shores of Lake Myvatn or an exchange of rings amidst the mystical landscapes of Haifoss waterfall, Iceland offers a canvas for couples to paint their love story in the most intimate and personal hues. The privacy afforded by these settings allows for a genuine connection, where every word spoken and every glance shared becomes a sacred moment, untethered from the expectations of a traditional wedding.
Memorable and Unique
For couples seeking an elopement that transcends the ordinary, Iceland is a treasure trove of opportunities to create a truly unique and memorable experience. The landscapes, ever-changing and diverse, offer a myriad of backdrops for crafting a love story that reflects the essence of your relationship.
Adventure awaits those willing to embrace it – from exchanging vows under the dancing Northern Lights to venturing into the mystical world of ice caves for a surreal ceremony. The versatility of Iceland's landscapes allows couples to infuse their elopement with elements of surprise and delight, ensuring that their love story is not just witnessed but experienced in a way that is utterly and unmistakably their own.
Activities for Your Iceland Elopement Day
Beyond the ceremony itself, Iceland presents a plethora of activities for couples to make their elopement day truly extraordinary. Imagine celebrating your union with a helicopter ride over the volcanic landscapes, exploring ice caves hand in hand, or even taking a dip in a natural hot spring as the sun sets on your first day as a married couple.
For the more adventurous souls, Iceland offers hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, where you can exchange vows with panoramic landscapes as your witness. Whether it's horseback riding through lush valleys or kayaking through glacial lagoons, the activities available on your Iceland elopement day can turn your wedding into an unforgettable adventure.
In conclusion, the decision to elope in Iceland is an invitation to embark on a love story that unfolds against the backdrop of stunning landscapes, promises intimate and personal moments, appeals to the adventurous spirit, and offers a plethora of unique activities.
Planning your trip to Iceland.
Where is Iceland located?
Iceland is a Nordic island country in the North Atlantic Ocean. If you look at a map, you can find it easiest between Greenland and the UK. Iceland’s capital city is Reykjavik and is home to over two-thirds of the population. Iceland is a non-Eu country but is heavily integrated into the EU.
How to get to Iceland
The best way to travel to Iceland is by air and it’s the fastest way. International flights land at Keflavik International Airport. It takes roughly 50 minutes from the airport to Reykjavik. Typical flight times from Europe are 3-4 hours and from America 5-6 hours.
Booking your flights well in advance is key to securing better prices. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying on weekdays for potential cost savings. Keep an eye on airline promotions and discounts.
If you stay under 90 days in Iceland, no visa is required for travellers from the UK, Ireland, Canada, EU, US, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries that are signed up with the Schengen Agreement. Your passport needs to be valid for 3 months beyond your return day.
When to visit Iceland
The busiest tourist season is from June to September. It’s bright and a bit warmer, the sun stays up at night and the access to highlands is much easier. Since we are talking about tourism season, tourists are everywhere (Iceland is a small country) and it can be hard to get deserted Iceland wedding pictures. And because of the tourism season, everything is more expensive: flights, hotels, renting a car, you name it.
Spring in Iceland
Spring generally comes to Iceland in April and May. Sometimes you can still get snow in spring but it usually melts away quickly.
Springtime weather in Reykjavík can be anything from snow, sleet, and rain, to bright sunny days. The temperature averages between 0-10°C (32-50°F). The Icelandic Highlands can be about 10°C colder than the coastline and are closed for traffic during the spring.
Summer in Iceland:
Summer starts in late May or early June and lasts till the end of August. In the middle of June (known as Midsummer) the sun is up all 24 hours and is a very beautiful and out-of-this-world experience to witness.
Temperatures can be as low as 5°C (41°F) but as warm as 25°C (77°F). On average, the temperature is between 10° to 15°C (50-59°F). Summers are not as wet as spring, but it does rain occasionally. Iceland is also a very windy country.
Since July is a typical holiday month you can expect that July will be super packed with many people visiting Iceland. August is also very popular for visiting Iceland and because of that, there can be sometimes a bit of a problem in finding rental cars and places to stay overnight. Especially South Iceland, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, Black Sand Beach and Jökulsarlon are heavily overrun.
Autumn in Iceland
Autumn starts in late August and ends around late October or early November. You will be able to see Autumn’s beautiful colours. The only downfall is that it may be windy, wet, and possibly quite cold.
But there is a chance to see the Northern lights!
Autumn is similar to springtime in temperature, between 0° to 10°C (32-50°F).
Winter in Iceland.
Winter is between November and March. The year’s shortest day is on the 21st of December and on that day, the daylight is only 4 or 5 hours long.
In the northern part of Iceland, the temperature will likely drop down to -10°C (14°F). And in the south down to -5° (23°F) or up to 5°C (41°F).
Driving in Iceland during wintertime is not for everyone. The roads are very icy and Iceland has strong winter storms and they can sometimes start just suddenly. When the snowstorm starts, the roads are closed and you should always cancel your plans due to the storm. Many people have got lost in the winter storm and never made it back.
In wintertime, there is a super good chance to see the Northern lights! Also, much fewer people visit Iceland during winter so you can be the only visitor in many tourist spots!
Budgeting Tips: Navigating Costs with Ease
Iceland's allure doesn't have to break the bank, and strategic budgeting can make your journey both magical and affordable. Consider these tips to estimate and manage your costs effectively:
Accommodation: Iceland offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Booking in advance can help secure better rates, and opting for guesthouses or Airbnb can provide a more intimate and cost-effective experience.
Transportation: Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring Iceland's vast landscapes independently. Booking your rental car in advance and comparing prices across different companies can help you find the best deal. Public transportation is also available, especially in more populated areas.
Meals: Dining out in Iceland can be pricey, but there are ways to manage your food budget. Consider grocery shopping for some meals and exploring local cafes and bakeries for affordable yet delicious options.
Activities: Plan and prioritize your activities to avoid unexpected expenses. While some natural attractions are free to explore, others may require entrance fees or guided tours. Researching and booking tours in advance can sometimes lead to discounted rates.
Top tips while visiting Iceland.
The capital city is called Reykjavik. When you will land in Iceland, you will be landing at Keflavik International Airport. It’s about 50 minutes drive from Reykjavik.
English is well-spoken in the country.
Card payments are well accepted but there can be some washrooms that require cash.
If you're going to visit Reynisfraja (the black sand beach) it's super important to keep an eye out for sneaker waves. These waves are not like any other waves since they just appear suddenly and can drag you into the ocean. Once it takes you, your are gone. If you google "sneaker waves Reynisfraja" you can see how dangerous they can be.
Driving off-road. Always stay on the road. It's illegal to drive off the road. Tourists have been doing this a lot and destroying so many beautiful places in Iceland. If you go off-roading and get caught: you will face fines of 500,000 ISK (almost 4000 USD ), potential jail time, and a lecture you will never forget.
. Walking on the moss. Iceland has moss almost everywhere and it's really beautiful. The problem is that if you walk on it, it takes decades to grow back. Honestly. The bigger problem Iceland has been having is that tourists end up carving their names on the moss. It's a terrible way to destroy nature that is very dear to Icelanders.
Not dressing according to the weather. The weather is always changing in Iceland and sometimes you can even face four seasons in 5 minutes. But an old Icelandic saying goes: "If you don't like the weather, wait for 5 minutes." It changes so much so be prepared for everything. If you of to explore something and Icelandic tells you to dress more, listen to them and change clothes. There have been many tourists who have gone underdressed, not listened to the warning, got lost and frozen up badly. Oh, and remember to pack sunglasses with you; the reflection of the sun against white ice can be blinding.
No, the northern lights can’t be seen during summer.
How to get married in Iceland.
The biggest question is always: can foreigners get married in Iceland? The answer is: YES! You can officially get married in Iceland :)
Legally getting married in Iceland:
You will follow the rules of the government of Iceland and submit the paperwork you will need. You will need an Icelandic celebrant to do your wedding.
Civil marriage: you can get your celebrant from here. The cost of a celebrant is around 600 dollars + travel fees.
The average cost for a religious ceremony is around 175 dollars + travel fees.
Marriage laws in Iceland
One of the most asked questions is: can a foreigner get married in Iceland? The answer is yes. However, there are some laws on getting married there and paperwork to be filled. So what do you need to know if you want to elope in Iceland? You and your partner need to be at least 18 years old. If your partner has been married before, you need to deliver divorce papers.
The documents are good to submit around 3-4 weeks before your big day and you can email them.
The documents you need to have and send them 3-4 weeks before the wedding.
Marriage notification from Hjónavígsluskýrsla District of Magistrate in Reykjavík. This form needs to be filled out and signed by both of you plus two witnesses ( I have been sometimes as one!)
“Notifications of marriage ceremonies are received from heads of religious associations or their representatives, priests or district commissioners to be registered in the National Registry” is written on the Iceland registry website.
The birth certificates of both parties are attached to the Marriage application form. Originals can be returned after the wedding ceremony.
Only originals or officially authorized (stamp or seal) are accepted.
Certificate of marital status, that needs to be issued within 8 weeks prior to the wedding date. This document is also referred to as a CNI or "no impediments" in some countries
A divorce decree, if either party is divorced. If the bride/groom is a widower, a document detailing the estate of the deceased has been divided/finalized.
Valid passports of both parties and possible visas. You can check from here if you will be needing a visa. This is super important so you can officially stay in the country and get married.
Airline ticket (showing entry/exit of the country)
Passport copy of trustworthy person 1
Passport copy of trustworthy person 2
If documents do not arrive within this timeframe, the marriage is considered cancelled.
Also:
All documents must be handed in as the original paperwork and not a photocopy.
Your birth certificates and other original certificates handed in can be picked up after the wedding ceremony.
After the ceremony, it is possible to obtain your marriage certificate in English.
IF THE PARTNERS ARE CITIZENS OF DENMARK, SWEDEN, NORWAY OR FINLAND OR RESIDING IN THESE COUNTRIES, PARTIALLY DIFFERENT REQUIREMENTS APPLY
Citizens of Denmark, Sweden, Norway or Finland are required to present a certificate from their country, to confirm that there are no impediments to marriage. "Hjónavígsluskýrsla" (1.) and passports (7.) must be presented, but the documents mentioned under items 2., 3., 4., 5. and 6 are not required. A resident of Denmark, Sweden, Norway or Finland may, in the same way, submit such a certificate issued in their country of residence, confirming that there are no impediments to marriage.
In Sweden, the required document is "Intyg hindersprövning" or "Marriage licence" issued by "Skatteverket".
In Denmark, the required document is "Ægteskabsattest" or "Certificate of marital status" issued by "Kommunen".
In Norway, the required document is "Prøvingsattest" or "Certificate of no impediment to marriage" issued by "Folkeregister"
In Finland, the required document is "Intyget över prövning av hinder"/"Certificate of the examination of the impediments to marriage" issued by "maistraatti / magistraten"
Can LGBTQIA+ couples get married in Iceland?
Yes, they can! Same-sex marriages have been allowed in Iceland since 2010 and the LGBTQ+ culture in Iceland is thriving. Iceland was one of the first countries that allowed same-sex marriage. Many same-sex couples travel to Iceland to get married since getting married in their home countries isn't allowed.
Different types of ceremonies to have on your elopement day.
There are multiple ways to do your elopement ceremony as there are places to get married.
Just us. This is usually what elopement ceremonies are all about: just you two there and all the moments will be shared by you two. No guests or family members were there. The ceremony is still official for you to get legally married.
Intimate ceremony. This is usually used in the meaning that in the ceremony there can be your parents, siblings or only your best friends involved. If you feel nervous about sharing your vows with your partner in front of your family, you can have a separate moment where you share them and then the moment when your family attends.
Symbolic marriage. The simplest way to get married. Eloping can happen anywhere. A symbolic ceremony is in most places not legally recognized so you will need an officiant to officiate you as a married couple.
Civil ceremony. Usually happens in a courthouse and you will sign the register. You will mostly need witnesses (usually two) to sign the register.
Religious ceremony. If you wish to have a religious ceremony abroad, it’s good to start by contacting your local with requirements. They can have recommendations from the church to get married.
Hand-fasting. It's an ancient Irish tradition, where the couple's hands are tied together as a symbol of their union. The celebrant ties the couple’s hands together with several ribbons.
Unity ceremony: are symbols of the choice you're making to merge your life with your partner. There can be unity candles, planting a tree together, or combining two different drinks into one.
How to choose the perfect location to get married in Iceland.
In the realm of romantic tales, the decision to elope in Iceland is a poetic journey awaiting the perfect backdrop. The Land of Fire and Ice offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes, each more enchanting than the last. If you're dreaming of saying "I do" against the stunning Icelandic vistas, let's explore the key factors in choosing the ideal elopement location that resonates with your love story.
Diverse Landscapes
Iceland is a symphony of nature's wonders, offering a plethora of breathtaking landscapes to serve as the canvas for your elopement ceremony. Consider these popular elopement locations that showcase the diversity of this magical island:
Waterfalls: Iceland is home to some of the world's most captivating waterfalls, each with its unique charm. The mighty Skógafoss, with its thunderous roar, provides a dramatic and powerful setting. For a more intimate experience, Kvernufoss offers the opportunity to exchange vows behind the cascading curtain of water.
Glaciers: The glaciers of Iceland provide a surreal and ethereal backdrop for an elopement ceremony. Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, offers an expansive and otherworldly setting. Consider a ceremony on the glacier itself or against the glacial lagoon, Jökulsárlón, where icebergs float serenely.
Black Sand Beaches: The volcanic nature of Iceland gives rise to unique black sand beaches that add a touch of mystery to your elopement.
Mountains and Cliffs: For couples seeking a mountaintop experience, the peaks of Snæfellsjökull National Park provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Cliffs like those at Arnarstapi offer a sense of seclusion and breathtaking panoramas of the North Atlantic.
The Highlands: You're ready to explore and you want to have river-crossings on a jeep? Then the Highlands are the right choice for you! Get captivated by places like Thorsmörk and Landmmanlaugar.
Personal Preferences
Amidst the abundance of picturesque locations, it's essential to identify the setting that resonates with your personal preferences and love story. Consider the following factors to narrow down your options:
Scenery that Speaks to You: Reflect on the landscapes that resonate with your vision of a perfect ceremony. Whether it's the raw power of a waterfall, the serene beauty of a glacier, or the rugged charm of a black sand beach, choose a setting that reflects the essence of your love.
Intimacy vs. Grandeur: Decide whether you envision an intimate elopement surrounded by nature's whispers or a grand ceremony against a more expansive backdrop. Iceland offers both options, allowing you to tailor your elopement to the level of intimacy that feels right for you.
Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of the location, especially if you have specific physical requirements or if you're planning to include guests in your celebration. Some locations may require hikes or specialized transportation, so factor in your and your guests' comfort.
Weather Considerations: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for various conditions. If you have a particular season or weather preference, take this into account when selecting your elopement location.
Permits and Permissions:
While Iceland's landscapes are open and free, some locations may require permits or permissions for elopement ceremonies. To ensure a smooth and legally sound celebration, consider the following advice:
Research Local Regulations: Some iconic locations may have specific regulations or restrictions for ceremonies. Research the rules for your chosen location to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Contact Local Authorities: Reach out to local authorities, park services or landowners to inquire about any necessary permits or permissions for your elopement. This step is crucial to avoid any complications on your special day.
Respect the Environment: Iceland places a strong emphasis on environmental conservation. Ensure that your elopement plans align with the principles of Leave No Trace, minimizing your impact on the delicate ecosystems.
Plan: It's advisable to start the permit application process well in advance of your elopement date. This ensures ample time for approvals and allows you to focus on the joy of your celebration rather than bureaucratic details.
Choosing your elopement location in Iceland is a deeply personal and meaningful decision that sets the stage for your love story. From the thundering waterfalls to the serene glaciers, the landscapes of Iceland beckon couples to craft a narrative that speaks to their unique connection. By considering personal preferences, understanding the diverse landscapes, and navigating the legalities with permits and permissions, you can ensure that your elopement in Iceland is a breathtaking and unforgettable chapter in your journey together. So, let the landscapes of Iceland be the witnesses to your love, and may your elopement be as extraordinary as the landscapes that surround you.
Avoiding tourist spots in Iceland
As I photographing elopements in Iceland, I have come to know of secret spots that many tourists don’t know about. And I only share locations with couples that have booked me to photograph their elopement. But I can never guarantee we would be 100 % alone in the locations.
Iceland has become crazy popular through social media with more and more visitors coming each year and because of that, I try to avoid the tourist spots so my couples can get more privacy on their day.
Ideas to make your Iceland elopement special.
There is a big misconception that elopements are supposed to last for only a couple of hours or you couldn’t include anything extra besides your ceremony and wedding pictures were taken! You can do whatever you want on your elopement day. Let’s repeat together: you can do whatever you want on your elopement day.
For some, it might be enough just to go around and have pictures taken but others might want to have something included especially if you have travelled to Iceland.
I got you covered and listed things you might want to do on your elopement day and make it more special for you.
Here are some ideas on how to make your elopement day special:
Exchange vows
Have a first look together
Get ready together
Have a midnight sun ceremony during the summer.
Bring a musician to play acoustic versions of your favourite songs.
Write personal letters to each other to read before the ceremony.
Include a handfasting ceremony to symbolize unity.
Incorporate Icelandic folklore or traditions into your vows.
Bring a picnic with traditional Icelandic delicacies.
Arrange a surprise performance by a local artist.
Create a personalized elopement playlist.
Design custom wedding rings inspired by Icelandic elements.
Print a custom map of your favourite locations for guests.
Have a first dance
Write messages to each other and place them in a time capsule.
Incorporate Icelandic wildflowers into your bouquet.
Include a symbolic ceremony like a unity candle or sand ceremony.
Plan a sunrise or sunset ceremony.
Hire a drone photographer for aerial shots of your ceremony.
Have a traditional Icelandic meal catered for a small reception.
Hire a local guide for a private tour of the area.
Create a photo book of your favourite moments together.
Include a moment of silence to appreciate the natural surroundings.
Host a virtual celebration for friends and family who can't attend.
Incorporate Icelandic wool blankets for warmth.
Plan a surprise adventure or activity for the day.
Have a local artist create a custom illustration of your elopement.
Include a reading or poem in Icelandic.
Create personalized elopement vows inspired by your favourite book.
Include a traditional Icelandic toast with mead or skyr.
Bring a Polaroid camera and create a scrapbook on the spot.
Hire an artist to paint a live portrait during the ceremony.
Include a traditional Icelandic wedding cake or dessert.
Plan a surprise helicopter ride for breathtaking views.
Create a signature elopement cocktail inspired by Iceland.
Include a moment to acknowledge loved ones who couldn't attend.
Arrange a surprise appearance by an Icelandic wildlife expert.
Have a local artisan create custom elopement favours.
Plan a horseback riding adventure
Hire a local chef for a private dinner with Icelandic cuisine.
Bring a traditional Icelandic drinking horn for a toast.
Write messages to each other to open future anniversaries.
Create a personalized elopement video to share with friends and family.
Plan a surprise visit from a local wildlife rescue with native animals.
Write your vows on parchment paper for a vintage touch.
Arrange for a private yoga or meditation session
Customized Wedding Attire: Wear outfits that reflect your style and personality.
Personalized Ring Box: Use a custom ring box that holds sentimental value.
Meaningful Jewelry: Wear jewelry with sentimental value or family significance.
Incorporate Your Hobbies: Infuse your hobbies into the celebration, whether it's gaming, reading, or painting.
Wedding planning legalities to consider when planning a destination wedding.
Insurance
You will need insurance for your elopement.
But wouldn’t it be good to protect yourself? Nobody wants to think about the worst-case scenario on their day but everything is always possible. Flights can be cancelled or postponed, you might face vendor problems (business bankrupt), or the place you are supposed to stay in shuts down, you lose your luggage, or your medical cover doesn’t cover your illness.
Ceremony legalities
In many European countries it can be difficult to arrange legally binding ceremonies and because of that many eloping couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony. In Iceland, you are fine with getting married in public lands as long as there is a priest or an officiant performing the ceremony.
Vendors
Inside Europe, vendors are allowed to move between countries in Europe and are able to perform their work and it’s legal. If you’re booking vendors that are not located in the country you’re getting married to or are coming outside Europe, make sure they have a working visa and they can enter the country.
Avoid extra cost
This isn’t officially legal but a very important tip. Lots of potential bank transfer fees and currency exchange headaches. Save yourself the hassle and use a specialist currency transfer service such as Currency Fair, Transferwise, or Revolute.
Iceland elopement packages.
All elopements are built on what is important to you;
Based on your values, your interests and what is important to you.
Hi, I’m Lisa!
I’m an Iceland-based elopement photographer who has worked in all weather conditions in Iceland. You want a local photographer who is familiar with the areas and who has also had your day covered with plans b and c.
As a person, I want to have my elopement day to be non-traditional, more focused on each other, and to have the day just for each other. We’re all in the same boat here and that is why I want to empower you to have a wedding day that you don’t regret. I’m here to be your partner in crime and to capture your day in pictures. I’m documenting your day for your families and for your kids to see how you got married.
Love is love. Period. No matter where you come from, do you love same-sex or what skin colour you have? I’m all rooting for love!
Why elope? Because getting married should be intimate and meaningful, fun and exciting.
Booking an elopement is not an 8-hour photoshoot. It's about staying true to yourself and getting married in the way you really want to get married. It's a one-in-a-lifetime day for you. The moment when you see each other for the first time all dressed up and feeling those butterflies in your stomach. The moment when you explore the new country you're getting married in and the moment you become one. These are the moments that I capture. True moments and laughter. Excitement and expectation. Getting married is like a sequel to a well-written story. Together as a couple, you have laid the foundation for your story, and now it gets a new shape.
Photography
My photography style is much more into real moments. Nothing staged no set-ups or awkward forced smiles. Also as a person, I just don’t disappear against a wall and takes photos from there. That is just not who I am. If you want a photographer to come to take the best-staged shots, make sure your wedding dress lace is always perfect, and have you doing forced poses, we might not be a match.
Friendship
My approach is that we’re friends, even how cheese that might sound. Not just a vendor-client relationship. My main focus is that my couples are having a good time.
Why have Lisa as your Iceland elopement photographer?
Kealey & Preston eloped in Iceland in early September 2021. In the video, they talk about why they chose Iceland as their elopement location, how the planning process went and also how was it like to have Lisa as their Iceland elopement photographer.
Experience
You can trust me with your wedding. I have photographed 100+ couples and I will be your support rock during your route to marriage life and during your day. I have worked in all weather conditions and I always have a plan B and c for your elopement.
Resources
I want to share with you all my planning help and experience to make your elopement happen. All from finding perfect locations for your ceremony, preparing for your trip, what you need to know of a country you are eloping to, 12 months elope planning checklist, wedding day timeline and even help on finding the perfect wedding dress!
Easy communication
Besides emails, you are always welcome to send me messages on WhatsApp.
Want to know more about Iceland elopements? Click the button below and let’s get your elopement planning started!
McWhirter elopements
lisa@mcwhirterelopements.com
+354 659 6405
Iceland elopement and small wedding photographer
Yes, we are LGBTQ+ friendly and proudly support Black Lives Matter. Eloping is for everyone!
Please keep an eye on spam folders as sometimes emails can land there. If you haven’t heard from me in 48 hours I’m either travelling or photographing elopements or your message has not reached me. In this case, just drop a hello at lisa@mcwhirterelopements.com
