Imagine this: You’re standing on a dramatic cliffside, the wind tousling your hair, your partner’s eyes locked with yours. A waterfall roars in the background, and just as you exchange vows, the Northern Lights flicker across the sky like nature’s own fireworks. Sounds like a dream, right?
Well, before you start packing your bags for Iceland, there’s one little question to answer: How far in advance should you actually book your wedding in Iceland?
Spoiler alert: The sooner, the better! But don’t worry, I’ve got all the details to help you plan the perfect timeline—whether you want a summer wedding under the midnight sun, an intimate winter elopement, or a fall ceremony surrounded by golden landscapes.
The Short Answer: When to Book Your Iceland Wedding?
For most couples, the sweet spot is 12 to 18 months in advance, especially if you’re planning a wedding during peak seasons (summer or autumn). But if you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement, you might be able to pull it off with 6-12 months of planning.
If you’re a last-minute adventurer and don’t mind some flexibility, 3-6 months might work—but expect to compromise on venue and vendors.
Best Time to Get Married in Iceland (and When to Book!)
🌞 Summer Weddings (June – August)
Why choose summer?
- The midnight sun gives you endless daylight for photos.
- Mild temperatures (by Icelandic standards).
- Lush green landscapes and accessible highland locations.
📌 Booking timeline: 12-18 months in advance.
📌 Best spots: Seljalandsfoss (see here), Hotel Budir (visit website).
📌 Things to consider: Expect more tourists, so plan for sunrise or late-night ceremonies for privacy.
🍂 Autumn Weddings (September – October)
Why choose autumn?
- Fewer crowds and dramatic golden landscapes.
- Temperatures are still bearable (but bring a coat).
- The first chances of seeing the Northern Lights!
📌 Booking timeline: 9-12 months in advance.
📌 Best spots: Vik’s black sand beaches (visit site), Skogafoss waterfall.
📌 Things to consider: Less daylight means planning your ceremony around the sunset.
❄️ Winter Weddings (November – March)
Why choose winter?
- The Northern Lights could be your wedding backdrop!
- Fewer tourists = more intimacy.
- Snow-covered landscapes for a true winter fairytale.
📌 Booking timeline: 6-12 months in advance.
📌 Best spots: Ice caves, frozen waterfalls, private lodges.
📌 Things to consider: Some areas are inaccessible due to snow, and daylight is limited to just a few hours.
🌸 Spring Weddings (April – May)
Why choose spring?
- Waterfalls are at their most powerful due to melting snow.
- Less crowded than summer, but still mild weather.
- A great balance between cost and beauty.
📌 Booking timeline: 6-12 months in advance.
📌 Best spots: Kirkjufell mountain, Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
📌 Things to consider: Some highland locations may still be inaccessible.
Booking Your Venue & Vendors: What You Need to Know
🏨 Venues
- Luxury hotels & lodges: Book 12-18 months ahead. Example: Hotel Budir.
- Outdoor locations: More flexible, but permits may be needed (apply 6+ months ahead).
📸 Photographers & Videographers
- Iceland’s top photographers book fast—aim for 12-18 months ahead (Check my availability: here).
💄 Hair & Makeup
- Iceland’s beauty industry is small but in demand. Secure an artist 6-12 months ahead.
Legal Requirements: What Paperwork Do You Need?
Yes, foreigners can get legally married in Iceland! But there’s some red tape:
✔️ Documents must be submitted at least 3 weeks before the wedding.
✔️ You’ll need:
- Passports
- Birth certificates
- Certificate of marital status
- Divorce/death certificate (if applicable)
📌 Full details: Icelandic Government Website
Last-Minute Weddings in Iceland: Is It Possible?
YES! If you’re eloping and don’t mind being flexible, you can plan a wedding in 3-6 months.
Tips for last-minute weddings:
✔️ Choose weekday dates for better availability.
✔️ Opt for a remote location (less competition).
✔️ Work with a local wedding planner to handle logistics.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Iceland Weddings
❓ Can foreigners get married in Iceland?
✅ Yes! Just submit your paperwork 3 weeks before the wedding.
❓ How much does a wedding in Iceland cost?
✅ Costs range from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on vendors and travel.
❓ What’s the best month to get married in Iceland?
✅ June to August for warm weather, winter for the Northern Lights.
❓ Do I need a wedding planner?
✅ Highly recommended for permits, logistics, and unpredictable weather.
❓ Where can I find the best Iceland wedding photographer?
✅ Right here! 😉 Check out my work.
Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Book Early & Enjoy the Magic!
Iceland is one of the most breathtaking places to get married, but booking at the right time is key.
✔️ 12-18 months ahead for summer/autumn.
✔️ 6-12 months ahead for winter/spring.
✔️ 3-6 months for a spontaneous adventure elopement.
🎥 Want to make your Iceland wedding unforgettable? Let’s create magic together! Check out my photography packages here: Your Happy Moments – Investment.
📩 Have questions or need help planning? Contact me here: Let’s Chat.
✨ Let’s turn your Iceland wedding dream into reality!
