Iceland Elopement Photography Packages
If you're looking for a stunning and remote location to elope, Iceland is the perfect place! With its lush and ever changing landscape, Iceland is a popular destination for elopements and intimate weddings. Here I’ll discuss just a few of the many locations in Iceland, as well as some of the most beautiful locations for an elopement. Let's get started!
Elopement Weather Expectations in Iceland
The best time to elope in Iceland is during the spring or summer months. Spring brings heavy waterfalls combined with Iceland lupines starting to bloom and birds are returning to their migratory patterns. Temperatures are mild with decently reliable weather expectations which makes it the ideal time for any location to exchange your vows. In spring, the days start to get longer as it transitions into the midnight sun in April and May. Midnight sun meaning it looks like sunset at 1am! If you don’t want any people to get in your way, how awesome would it be to immerse yourself on a black sand beach at midnight?!
Summer brings better temperatures from 40F to 58F and a lush landscape. June starts the busy season but spring and summer are no doubt a beautiful time to visit waterfalls, black sand beaches, camping, visiting national parks and lava fields, whale watching and attending festivals. This weather is perfect for hiking so be prepared to pack to lighter clothes as well as heavy.
Due to Iceland’s location on earth’s axis you can see daylight up to 21hrs with sunrise starting at 3:30am and sunset at 11:30pm.
Fall begins the pause for tourism and while temperatures range from 30F to 50F the weather becomes more erratic and will definitely put on a show for the full range of Iceland weather. Be prepared for strong winds, rain and possibly snow while packing clothing for anything that may come your way. This can also mean being very flexible as the weather may change your plans for you.
Undoubtedly, winter is the coldest of all the months but is still mild in comparison to other countries, averaging around 30F. Even though the snow and wind can be fierce, that combination helps form ice caves which can only be seen in the Iceland winter months. Even though daylight is a luxury in the winter months, eloping in an ice cave can be unique as ever!
Remember, even though Iceland brings all the seasons, spring and summer are my recommendations if you’re looking to elope in Iceland. If you forget something, that’s what I’m here for; to be prepared and assist in your day going as smoothly as possible. With that being said, no matter what the weather is like, we will make it epic! It’s your day and all about your connection while we create an amazing experience.
Permits Required for Iceland Elopements
If you desire to be in nature to elope in Iceland no permit is required! There’s no need to book a tour to find certain locations as I can assist you in planning your perfect location as I’ve been to many. Want a picnic on a black sand beach, no problem! Seeking a sunrise shoot in your fun off-road vehicle? I can definitely help with that too! It’s all about your day, getting ready, walking to that beautiful spot just for you two, and so much more. Eloping in Iceland, it’s an experience!
The Best Locations for Eloping in Iceland
- Solheimajokull Glacier Hike- hiking up a glacier is something unique and should definitely be on your elopement list! Strap on your crampons and be amazed at how small you’ll feel while exchanging your vows. I definitely recommend hiring a private tour guide for this one as they are experts in watching the patterns of Iceland’s glaciers daily. I’ve been told the crevasses can change rapidly and to be safe always go with a professional or someone with experience.
- Black Sand Beach- Also called Reynisfjara Beach has a more easy, laid-back flow, a beach is another great option for eloping in Iceland. With a small walk to numerous spots, black sand beach offers dramatic landscape combined with the sounds of crashing waves from the North Atlantic Sea. This is a popular place for tourists so I highly recommend going early or later in the evening for more privacy and less crowds.
- Reynisfjara Viewpoint- The stunning location overlooking Arnardrangur is the ultimate spot to let the wind take your cares away and bring on the love! You may even have an audience of puffins cheering you on! This spot can be very windy even in the summer months so be prepared for this as well. Remember the wind can create a dramatic dress ambiance.
- Skogafoss Waterfall- While it’s only a 2 hr drive from Reykjavik, it’s definitely on top of my list of recommendations to elope. Not only is it one of the biggest waterfalls, but there are many beautiful areas around the waterfall that are just as majestic. A field of lupines, a farm with sheep in the distance and not to mention a spectacular view from the top! The stairway is steep with 500 stairs and not many venture all the way up, but this is why you elope right? To have your day be different, epic and worth it!
There are many additional locations to elope in Iceland! Contact me and I’m always open to suggestions if you have your heart set on something. Email me, we can chat further and solidify your special day!
How to Get to Iceland
Iceland is located northeast of the United States, west of Europe and just south of Greenland. Making it easier to get to as it’s right in between everything, for example it’s only a 6 hour plane ride from Chicago O'hare. Of course, depending on where you live it will make it a short or longer flight, but know that there are many flights flying into Reykjavik, Iceland.
Car Rental Suggested
It is recommended to rent a car as some locations are farther than others as well as certain taxi or bus tours may be more expensive. Don’t let that stray you away as the landscape from the main roads are even beautiful. The link below has made renting a car in Iceland super easy and affordable. Not only is there a location at the Reykjavik airport but also within downtown Reykjavik. I also recommend a 4x4 vehicle as you may come across some gravel and steep roads and want that extra push.
Where to Stay in Iceland
Hotel Fljotshlid
Hotel Fljotshlid is one of the many farm stays that are available and high on my list of recommendations. This traditional Icelandic family farm location has 20 rooms, delicious meals, and all the animals that you can think of. With the view of the highland mountains in the background, it’s also labeled with the Nordic Swan Eco label for sustainability and definitely felt a part of the family staying here. It’s peaceful, clean, and only a short distance to Gluggafoss (Merkjárfoss).
http://www.smaratun.is/
Foss Hotel Downtown
If a downtown feel is more your vibe, then I highly recommend the Foss Hotel downtown Reykjavik. This location is walkable to many shops, restaurants and further transportation stops making it very easy to get around. This location is steps away from a bus stop and car rentals are minutes away as well.
https://foss.hotelsreykjavik.net/en/#bkl
Panoramic Glass Lodge
Want to get away even more? Check out the panoramic glass lodge in Hella which gives the ultimate relaxation and seclusion. This was one of my favorite parts about Iceland as it’s simplistic and romantic all while giving you the view of Volcano Hekla in the distance. There are four lodges to choose from with each of them giving a different yet spectacular view. Not only are they introducing locations in the West side of Iceland soon, Sabrina, (one of the owners), also runs a successful hair and makeup business. Perfect connection for eloping while wanting hair and makeup done.
Iceland Elopement Photography Package
What’s Included?
Currently I offer a full day elopement package that allows for up to 12 hour coverage. Not only will this package provide us with enough time to capture you in the location you desire, but will also allow me showcase things like getting photos, writing vows, for example, and allowing me to be behind the scenes and tell your story.
Full Elopement Package
STARTING AT $5,000
THIS PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Up to twelve hours of detailed, customized coverage.
- An online, personal gallery of high resolution edited images and print release.
- Being your personal guide.
- Permit and license assistance.
- Complimentary Officiant Services.
- Location scouting.
- Travel fees included.
- A new ally for life!
- Full Day Elopement starting at $5,000
All collections include a complimentary consultation to discuss your vision for your elopement.
Ready To Book?
If you're planning to elope in Iceland, I hope this has been helpful as this is just the beginning! Eloping is a beautiful way to start your life together, and Iceland is the perfect place to do it. Eloping can take the stress out of planning a big wedding. Remember it’s not just about taking amazing photos to remember your day, it’s about doing something that is special to you and creating an experience.
Life is too short, and are you going to look back and regret investing in yourselves on your wedding day? Of course not! Let me help you capture that experience and you’ll look back on it for a lifetime. Contact me today to book your photography package and start planning your dream elopement!
Anticipating Those Moments You Want Captured
I am a born and raised Wisconsin gal whose elaborate professional background has led me to the world of photography! Starting in the operating room before becoming a nurse that aided patients with their cancer treatments, I have been part of so many life-changing situations that what became most apparent to me was how precious life is. My NEED to capture and above all else, CELEBRATE special moments in the lives of all individuals has been fueled by this extensive background in the medical world, leading me to found Emerie Leigh Photography in 2022. Not a single one of my projects are approached in a “one-size-fits-all” manner - I want to be YOUR photographer for years to come!
Let's Capture Your Moment
Driving or Flying to Your Next Shoot
I am based in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, but I travel anywhere. I am a hop skip and jump away from Wisconsin and Illinois clients. Additionally, I fly internationally often for photography assignments and projects.
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Monday - Sunday:
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