What if your wedding guest list included just the two of you, a few curious turtles, and the warm breeze of the Indian Ocean? No seating chart drama. No crowded ballroom. Just you, your love, and one of the most exclusive private islands in the world — North Island, Seychelles.
If you’ve been dreaming about a barefoot ceremony, champagne at sunset, and a setting so surreal it feels like a movie, let’s dive into how to make this dream destination wedding a reality. Spoiler alert: it’s going to be unforgettable.
First, What (and Where) is North Island?
North Island is a private island in the Seychelles — and we mean private. With only 11 ultra-luxurious villas, each hidden among the lush greenery or along the pristine beaches, it’s the kind of place where you’re more likely to see a nesting turtle than another tourist.
This exclusive eco-resort, part of the Wilderness Safaris collection, offers unmatched privacy and barefoot luxury. Celebrities (yes, royals too 👀) have tied the knot or honeymooned here. But don’t let that intimidate you — this paradise is for couples who want to unplug from the world and plug into each other.
Explore more about the island itself here: North Island, Seychelles
When Is the Best Time to Get Married on North Island?
Good news: Seychelles enjoys warm tropical weather year-round. But if you’re looking for the sweet spot, aim for:
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April to May or October to November: These shoulder seasons offer calmer seas, clear skies, and fewer guests overall.
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Avoid January and February, which are typically rainier.
Pro tip: ask your wedding photographer (hi, it’s me!) about golden hour times — Seychelles sunsets are cinematic.
Legalities: Can You Legally Get Married Here?
Yes! Seychelles is one of the easiest places for foreigners to get legally married. Here’s the short version:
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You’ll need to apply for a civil wedding license at least 11 days before the ceremony.
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Required documents: passports, birth certificates, proof of marital status, and divorce/death certificates if applicable.
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The North Island team will help handle all of this — truly.
Still want the stress-free version? Many couples do the legal paperwork at home and opt for a symbolic ceremony on the island.
What’s It Like to Get Married on North Island?
Imagine this: you wake up in your oceanfront villa, birdsong in the air, sunlight filtering through the palm trees. Breakfast is served privately on your deck. You spend the morning in a couples’ spa ritual, then slip into your attire — barefoot or bejeweled, your call.
The ceremony takes place on Honeymoon Beach, a powdery stretch of sand where the only sound is the gentle crash of waves. Or perhaps you choose the forest path, lined with tropical foliage. You say “I do,” champagne in hand, and dance your first dance under the stars, no shoes required.
Want a sneak peek? Browse the dreamy aesthetic at Wilderness Weddings.
Real Talk: How Much Does It Cost?
North Island is a splurge, no doubt — think ultra-luxury. Nightly rates for villas start around $7,000+ per night, all-inclusive (yes, private butlers and sunset cruises included).
Weddings are fully customized, so costs vary, but here’s what couples typically book:
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3–5 nights accommodation
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Private ceremony coordination
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Decor, florals, cake, and dining
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Photography, hair, and makeup
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Optional excursions (diving, private yacht charter, island hike)
If this sounds like “yes, please,” we should definitely talk photography…
Why North Island is Perfect for Intimate Destination Weddings
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Zero distractions: It’s just you, nature, and your forever person.
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Eco-conscious luxury: Sustainability without sacrificing style.
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Total personalization: No cookie-cutter packages.
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Unreal photography: Think glowing beaches, misty mountain backdrops, and starlit dinners.
Whether you elope or bring a few loved ones, North Island is where fairytales touch the shoreline.
A Few Fun Tips for Planning
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Don’t pack heels — sandy toes look better in photos anyway.
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Match your outfits to the surroundings: light linens, soft neutrals, island florals.
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Plan a “day-after” adventure shoot — snorkeling, hiking, or just lounging in a hammock with mimosas.
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Give your guests (if you invite any) a “Survival Kit” with reef-safe sunscreen, fans, and local coconut treats.
FAQ Time
Can foreigners legally marry in Seychelles?
Yes! It’s simple, recognized internationally, and North Island helps handle the paperwork.
Do I need a wedding planner?
Not really — North Island offers full wedding concierge service.
Is it good for elopements?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most romantic, private destinations on Earth.
Can we bring a photographer?
Yes, and I’d be thrilled to join you. My style is cinematic, emotional, and tuned to every golden beam of Seychelles light.
Let’s Make Your Island Wedding Magical
Planning a wedding on North Island deserves more than snapshots — it calls for soul-stirring photography that captures the magic, movement, and quiet moments in between. I’ve spent years photographing love stories across Europe and tropical paradises, with a deep love for intimate, luxurious, and wildly romantic celebrations.
✨ Ready to see what your North Island love story could look like?
Just imagine the sound of the waves, your dress catching the breeze, and that moment when you look at each other and realize… you made it. Let’s capture that — beautifully.
