It goes without saying that an outdoor wedding venue requires a backup plan. An outdoor wedding venue in Iceland however, typically requires a plan B, C, D and beyond!
Iceland is well known for its temperamental weather. Think, torrential rain, hail, sleet, dangerous fog, windstorms, sandstorms, snowstorms … you get the idea. So when a gigantic blizzard descended on Ashley and PW’s planned ceremony location, the Iceland Wedding Planner team calmly swept into action and pointed the Superjeep towards this rather spectacular alternative.
The result was a beautiful snowy ceremony beside a waterfall, followed by a full day exploring the Icelandic highlands. Plan ‘B’ never looked so good! As told to BWB by Ann Peters of Iceland Wedding Planner.
The Couple
Ashley + PW are from North Carolina. Meeting by way of common interests is one of my favorite ways that couples meet. For example, Ashley and PW met for the first time in a runners’ group. Exercise being important to them both is a commonality but, they had also shown up to meet new people. Following that afternoon’s run they found out that coincidentally, they both also worked in the same hospital!
From their first trip to Mont Blanc to countless others to Alaska, Patagonia, Eastern Europe, and even to Morocco, it’s fair to say these two thrive on adventure. Ashley had actually been to Iceland previously, and was dying for PW to experience its endless beauty too. So, it was an easy decision once they were engaged to choose Iceland for their elopement. February was actually the best time in their schedules to travel and they embraced the idea of having a winter wonderland wedding!
The Destination – The Icelandic Highlands
Their ceremony location was actually a “plan b” spot because as we neared their original choice, there was heavy fog and blizzard-like conditions. Our Iceland Wedding Planner team made a judgment call based on the conditions and the time it was taking to switch to “plan b.” That’s the beauty of Iceland though, that even a plan “b” is just as (and if not more, most times) stunning than the first. By choosing to “plan” Ashley and PW were able to explore this waterfall from all sides as well!
Time of Year
The wedding took place in mid-February, which is typically the snowiest time to come to Iceland, especially if heading into the Highlands. The daylight hours are between 9:45am-5:30pm, so it was important to them they used every inch of it!
The Wedding Planning Process
PW and Ashley contacted our Iceland Wedding Planner team in November looking to have a February wintery elopement adventure. Although the planning time was short, it did not lack in adventure or luxurious details! The only difficulty was having to plan “b” the ceremony location and two of the other planned locations due to blizzard conditions.
The Wedding Day
Ashley and PW began their morning together well before sunrise at one of Iceland’s only 5-star luxury hotels. A snow-globe like ceremony awaited them at a hidden waterfall in the Icelandic Highlands. Following the ceremony, they explored the waterfall while the elopement photographer captured their journey of discovery.
Next on the agenda was a traditional Icelandic Hot Dog BBQ (of lamb hot dogs) at an even taller, totally different looking waterfall with endless blue skies! At the next location, the weather was so stunning and calm that the photographer was able to get the drone up to capture these two lovers at yet another waterfall and a beautiful mountainous area. Lastly on the adventure schedule was an iceberg filled black beach! Sooo dreamy!
Our Iceland Wedding Planner team are firm believers that even though a couple elopes somewhere spectacular, they should still be spoiled with luxurious details that make them feel like VIP’s! So, after returning to the hotel and having a little rest, these two delighted in a romantic and cozy styled reception dinner for two in front of a fireplace!
Advice for Others Considering an Elopement in the Icelandic Highlands
No matter what location or country you choose, make it your own. Dare yourselves to embark on an incredible EXPERIENCE together, not just a “wedding day” in a pretty location. Take the time to EXPLORE, DISCOVER, and be in the moment together!
Ashley & PW’s Iceland Wedding Vendors
Wedding Planner: Iceland Wedding Planner
Wedding Photographer: Your Adventure Wedding
Accommodation: Hotel Grimsborgir, Selfoss, Iceland
Transportation: Katlatrack
Bridal Flowers: Southern Girl Weddings
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