First, let’s cover the why in why you should consider eloping or having a wedding in Iceland.
With some destination weddings (take Mexico for example), you have to do your legal signing at home, making the ceremony really, in a sense ‘pretend’. BUT.. get married in Iceland and you’re legally married. No at-home loop holes required. Iceland’s marriage license is recognized by many many countries including Canada and the States. Of course, there’s still paperwork and formalities to cover in advance (documents must be submitted at least 3 weeks prior to the date of the wedding) but with an Icelandic marriage commissioner your ceremony will be binding (and real).
Heard of the midnight sun? I talk about the importance of good light all the time but here at home we’re chasing a pretty normal sundown schedule with about an hour of ‘golden’ light before sunset. Because of where Iceland is located, in the winter there is more hours of darkness but in the summer that good light almost never goes away. From May to July the midnight sun is a stunning phenomenon that can contribute to the most stunning views and vibrant colours. The other bonus here is that you can avoid the crowds. Some of the popular destinations can be busy with tourists in the afternoon but head there for portraits late in the evening and you’re likely to have it all to yourself.
Think of the endless timeline options too? What about a reception dinner first, amazing food and wine and company? Then a ceremony after, let’s say 10pm? Followed by a midnight dip in a natural hot spring. Leaning towards a wedding in the winter or fall? Two words. Northern Lights.
Next reason. The wedding and honeymoon combo options when it comes to booking flights. Iceland is ideally situated between North America and Europe and offers a free stopover package for up to a week when flying between the two. Book a honeymoon in Europe, stop over in Iceland on the way to tie the knot. Simple!
