What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?
Our decision to elope was driven by a desire for a deeply personal and intimate experience. We wanted to focus entirely on our love and commitment to each other without the stress, expectations, and logistical complexities of a traditional wedding. By eloping, we were able to create a day that was truly our own — one that felt authentic, meaningful, and filled with moments we’ll cherish forever.
We chose to elope in Iceland because it felt deeply meaningful to both of us — it’s a place where we share family heritage, and its breathtaking landscapes made it the perfect setting for such an intimate and special moment. The dramatic scenery, from black sand beaches to cascading waterfalls, created an almost otherworldly backdrop that felt both powerful and serene. Standing together in a place tied to our roots, surrounded by nature’s raw beauty, made our commitment feel even more profound. It was the perfect way to honor our love, our history, and the beginning of our journey as husband and wife.
What is the most memorable moment of your day?
The most memorable part of our elopement was the overwhelming sense of peace and presence we felt throughout the day. Without any distractions or external pressures, we were able to fully immerse ourselves in every moment — walking hand in hand through the breathtaking Icelandic landscape, exchanging deeply personal vows in a place so connected to our family heritage, and embracing the quiet intimacy of a day that was truly just about us.
A particularly special moment was getting to take photos with the Icelandic horses. As an equestrian, it meant so much to me to share that experience with my husband, and the kindness of the family who welcomed us onto their farm made it even more meaningful. It was one of those moments that felt serendipitous like it was always meant to happen.
Beyond the stunning scenery and carefully planned details, what made the day unforgettable was how authentic it felt. It was a pure reflection of who we are as a couple—intentional, deeply connected, and completely present with one another. That feeling is something I’ll cherish forever.
What was your biggest splurge?
While eloping can be more budget-friendly than a traditional wedding, we prioritized experiences and high-quality photography to capture the memories. The most significant costs were travel, attire, and photography, but we intentionally kept other aspects simple to reflect our personal style and values. Although some prices may still be high, there are several areas where costs can be kept to a minimum.
What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?
The simplicity, the intimacy, and the freedom to make the day entirely our own made it all the more special. For anyone considering an elopement, I’d say trust your instincts, prioritize what feels meaningful to you, and embrace the experience fully.
Are there any additional details you’d like to share?
The couple traveled from Canada, having fallen in love with Iceland’s landscapes on a previous trip. Their day began with an emotional first look at Hotel Búðir, followed by a heartfelt ceremony at the black church of Búðir. They explored black sand beaches, and secluded waterfalls, and even spent time with Icelandic horses, making their elopement a truly unforgettable experience.
