Erika & Jared’s Wedding Adventure Exploring the Akureyri Region of Iceland
Erika and Jared traveled with their closest family to the Akureyri region of Iceland. Although it’s less visited than other parts of Iceland, it is just as beautiful… if not more for those who crave secluded wonders. These two hiked with their family to a mountain lake and explored other parts of northern Iceland together on their wedding day. Get all the details below.
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About This Small Wedding
“We love the north and Akureyri region with all of our hearts, although this part of Iceland is not popular for tourism. Of course, we always support the idea of an elopement there because you can spend your whole wedding day in complete privacy, meeting only birds! This elopement with the couple’s closest family is very special to us. It was a super warm day, full of sun, and the whole surroundings were in full bloom.
Erika and Jared had a very cozy getting ready and then we hiked up for 1.5 hours to the mountain lake for an evening ceremony.” [Jane & Tony, the photographers]
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Permits & LNT
“Iceland is a unique destination, since there are almost no locations that require any permits and fees to visit. The exact location of this wedding is in the north of Iceland, not far from Akureyri. It is very far away from the main and most popular sights of Iceland. So, there is a very slight hiking trail through the local farmland leading to the mountain lake.
You need to follow the general Leave No Trace guidelines like staying only on the hiking trail, staying away from the unique Icelandic moss, leaving no waste or anything artificial after the ceremony, and being quiet and respectful to nature.” [Jane & Tony, the photographers]
Learn more about leaving no trace during your adventure.
Top Tips When Eloping Near Akureyri, Iceland
Jane and Tony share their top tips when eloping in the area:
- We recommend visiting the location to check it out and explore the optimal hiking route (there are several) before the elopement day. Some trials need river crossings, and some are already closed by farmers.
- Prepare for a pretty intense uphill hike for about 1-1.5 hours, depending on your physical form.
- The location looks the best either at the sunset or at sunrise, because of the deep shadows you can hide in. It’s important to avoid midday time, especially in summer.
About The Couple
“Working with Erika and Jared was incredibly easy. We didn’t stage anything during the day, which we loved the most – we just witnessed their beautiful elopement day, their connection, and the beauty of their relationship and caring for each other.
The uphill hike to the mountain lake felt pretty brutal a times since there were almost no plain spots to breathe. Despite hiking in the wedding dress and suit, Erika and Jared were really battling it as warriors.” [Jane & Tony, the photographers]
Details We Love About This Small Wedding
“We’re in love with the whole day, as it was one of the most authentic weddings we’ve ever shot. Everything felt ‘right’! We loved getting ready together with the best friends and moms. The venue (the farm) is so pretty and we were really enjoyed the light and emotions from everyone.
We loved how united the guests were. The guests were helping the couple create some decorations on the farm, after that everyone was happy to hike all the way up to the lake. We didn’t hear or feel that anyone was not happy to do it. It surely supported Erika and Jared, which was such a joy to feel and see.” [Jane & Tony, the photographers]
Memorable Moments From This Elopement With Family
From the photographer:
“One of the most beautiful moments was when they (together with the whole wedding party) decided to have a rest after the hike before the ceremony. Erika and Jared were just sitting on the ground, smiling and watching the birds and beautiful blue skies, supporting each other. We didn’t stage the guests holding the veil to create some shade for Erika and Jared, and it turned out to be one of the most authentic and beautiful portraits we’ve shot on this day.
Of course, we were very touched by the vows Erika and Jared read to each other, the words of love, tears, and beautiful emotions were so true. Everyone (including us) were crying together with the couple.”
Vendors
Photography | ISKRA photography
Venue & accommodation | Selá Retreat
Photos From This Elopement Adventure