So, you’ve been invited to a wedding in Iceland? First of all—lucky you! Iceland isn’t just another wedding destination; it’s a full-blown cinematic experience. Picture this: the couple says their vows under the northern lights, with waterfalls crashing behind them, while a soft mist gives everything a mystical glow. Sounds magical, right?
But before you throw your best outfit into a suitcase and board the next flight to Reykjavík, there are a few things you need to know to make your trip smooth, stylish, and unforgettable. Let’s get into it!
1. Icelandic Weather: The Ultimate Wild Card 🎭
Imagine waking up to a sunny morning, stepping outside, and—boom!—sideways rain, hurricane-level wind, and maybe even a bit of snow. That’s Iceland for you.
✔ Rule #1: Always be prepared for four seasons in one day.
✔ Rule #2: Layers are life.
Here’s what to pack for the ultimate Iceland wedding survival kit:
✅ A waterproof jacket (it’s your best friend)
✅ Warm base layers (merino wool = magic)
✅ Stylish, yet practical boots (no heels on lava fields, please)
✅ A cozy Icelandic wool sweater (lopapeysa—both trendy & warm)
✅ Gloves, hat, scarf (yes, even in summer!)
✅ An eye mask if it’s a summer wedding (because the sun never sets)
Pro Tip: If you’re attending an outdoor wedding at stunning locations like Seljalandsfoss (visiticeland.com) or the black sand beaches of Vík, waterproof everything is a must. No one wants soggy socks during the vows.
2. Fancy Footwear? Think Again.
High heels and Iceland do not mix. Between uneven terrain, gravel roads, and the occasional glacier walk, wedding guests who choose stilettos may find themselves sinking faster than the Titanic. Instead, go for waterproof boots, sturdy flats, or stylish ankle boots.
Bonus Tip: If you’re attending a Viking-style wedding, consider embracing the theme with some rustic leather boots. It’s practical and aesthetic. Win-win.
3. The Midnight Sun vs. The Northern Lights
When’s the wedding? Because Iceland is a land of extremes:
☀ Summer weddings (May–August) = nearly 24 hours of daylight. That means partying all night without realizing it’s 3 a.m. (oops). Pack an eye mask if you actually want to sleep.
🌌 Winter weddings (September–April) = dark skies + northern lights. If you’ve always dreamed of seeing the aurora borealis, check the Aurora Forecast (vedur.is) for the best chance to catch the show.
4. Expect an Epic Ceremony (With a Viking Twist?)
Icelandic weddings aren’t your average ballroom affair. Whether it’s exchanging vows on a glacier, inside a tiny turf-roofed church, or standing at the edge of a waterfall, the ceremony will be unforgettable.
And if it’s a Viking wedding, expect:
⚔ Horned goblets of mead
🔥 Fire rituals
📜 Old Norse blessings
Whatever the setting, prepare for emotional, breathtaking moments—and probably some wind-induced hair chaos.
5. The Alcohol Situation (A.K.A. Why Duty-Free is Your Best Friend)
Drinks in Iceland = expensive. If you like to celebrate with a glass (or five), do yourself a favor and buy alcohol at the duty-free shop at Keflavík Airport. It’s way cheaper than buying drinks in town.
At weddings, expect a mix of Icelandic beer (Einstök is a good one to try!) and local schnapps called Brennivín (which tastes like licorice and regret, but you have to try it at least once).
6. Hangover Cure? Iceland’s Got You.
Too much Brennivín? Don’t worry—Iceland has built-in recovery stations.
🔥 Hot springs are the ultimate hangover cure. The famous Blue Lagoon (bluelagoon.com) is always a solid choice, but if you want something less touristy, try:
- Seljavallalaug (a remote geothermal pool in the mountains)
- Secret Lagoon (secretlagoon.is)
- Sky Lagoon (skylagoon.com) for a fancier spa experience
A long soak in mineral-rich waters will have you feeling brand new.
7. Get Ready for the Rúntur (a.k.a. All-Night Partying)
Icelanders know how to party. If the wedding is in Reykjavík, the night does not end after the reception. Instead, you might find yourself on a rúntur—the Icelandic version of a bar crawl. Bars stay open until 4-5 a.m., so pace yourself!
8. Icelandic Wedding Food: What’s on the Menu?
Icelandic wedding food is an adventure. Expect delicious lamb, fresh seafood, and quirky local treats like:
🍞 Rye bread ice cream (yes, it’s a thing)
🦈 Hákarl (fermented shark—don’t ask, just try it)
🧀 Skyr (like Greek yogurt, but better)
9. Renting a Car? Read This First.
Many wedding venues are outside the city, so renting a car is smart. But Iceland has rules:
🚗 Get a 4×4 if you plan on driving in the Highlands.
🚗 Never drive off-road (it’s illegal and damages nature).
🚗 Wind is no joke—hold onto your car doors!
🚗 Check road conditions on road.is before heading out.
10. Give Yourself Time to Explore
If you’re coming all the way to Iceland, stay a few extra days. Some must-see spots:
🌋 Golden Circle: Geysers, waterfalls, and a national park.
🌊 South Coast: Epic black sand beaches and glacier lagoons.
🏔 Skaftafell: Perfect for hiking and glacier exploring.
🌌 Silfra Fissure (dive.is): Snorkel between two continents.
Final Thoughts: Capture the Magic
Icelandic weddings are pure magic—and they deserve to be captured perfectly. From windswept kisses under the northern lights to barefoot walks on black sand beaches, these moments are worth remembering forever.
I specialize in photographing destination weddings in Iceland, capturing the raw beauty, emotion, and adventure of the day. Want your love story told in breathtaking images? Let’s make it happen.
📸 Explore my portfolio here
💍 See my wedding packages here
📩 Contact me here
Let’s make your wedding memories as unforgettable as Iceland itself. 🌿💍✨
