Vestrahorn Beach, Iceland Elopement
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Charlie and Matt wanted drama and adventure for their wedding day, and they found it in spades in Iceland. The weather in April in Iceland can be finnecky, but they were very lucky with a tremendous clear day to celebrate their love.
The day started at Vestrahorn beach in the morning and the beauty of the mountain was an incredible backdrop to say their wedding vows.
How was the location chosen?
From Rose, the photographer: Charlie and Matt knew they wanted this beach when we hopped on our initial call. The massive cliff faces plummeting right into the black sand beach was an easy sell.
The location itself is very easy to access- it is walk up! It is however nearly 7 hours from Reykjavik which means a bit of a drive. However the remoteness is part of the appeal.
You can have both a legal and a symbolic ceremony here.
Do you need any special permits or permissions to get married or have a photo session here?
The Viking Cafe, which resides at the entrance to the beach, charges a small $10 fee to enter. It is my understanding that photography is permitted here upon paying the entrance fee. As long as no props or other objects were being brought onto the site.
what about Sustainability or leave no trace for this area?
From Rose, the photographer: The couple only wanted minimal components to their wedding day – so yes it was definitely a consideration and a part of the planning!
All of Iceland and tourism more generally is met with great care in my business. I am LNT certified and make sure to follow the guidelines whether the location is in my backyard or internationally.
what are your top tips for planning an elopement in this area?
From Rose: Be prepared for all the weather! Iceland is notoriously windy, and with that comes rain and all sorts of conditions. Elopements in Iceland should be met with patience and care, and frankly a sense of humor because if you choose to get married in Iceland you choose to take on Mother Nature!
Weather wise the best time to visit would be in the summer! Crowd wise, I would suggest the shoulder seasons (April-May & Sept-Oct).
How did the Couple meet?
At their local pub, although once they knew of each other they realised they had been at the same college for 2 years, getting on the same bus every week and even classrooms on the same floor but they never met. Oh they also had the same driving instructor and lived in the same town for the whole of their lives!
What made them choose an elopement in Europe, in this area in particular?
Charlie and Matt live in London, and are huge travelers! When getting married was on the table, they knew they wanted something adventurous and epic so they landed on Iceland! It was a new country for both of them, and from London a very easy flight up.
the vendors:
Photography: Matlai Photography
Celebrant: Ziggy, celebrant Iceland
Dress: Bustle and Bow
