“What if we said ‘I do’ under the Northern Lights?” Sarah whispered, eyes twinkling.
“That sounds incredible… but what if they don’t show up?” Jake hesitated.
“Well, at least we’ll be in Iceland, and that’s already magic.”
And just like that, another couple set off on the most enchanting adventure of their lives.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding where nature’s most breathtaking light show becomes your backdrop, then an Aurora Borealis wedding might be your perfect fairytale. Let’s dive into how to make this dream a reality—with all the best locations, expert tips, and a sprinkle of humor (because let’s be real, it’s going to be cold).
Why a Northern Lights Wedding is Pure Magic
Forget fairy lights and candles—Mother Nature has the ultimate wedding decor. The Aurora Borealis, an ethereal display of shifting green, purple, and pink hues, has fascinated people for centuries. Vikings once believed it was a reflection of fallen warriors, while Finnish folklore speaks of a celestial fox whose tail sparks the lights as it dashes across the sky.
For you? It’s the most breathtaking way to begin your forever.
Best Locations to Get Married Under the Northern Lights
You need two things for a successful aurora wedding: a dark sky and the right latitude. Here are the top spots where your dream can come true.
1. Iceland – Ice Caves & Dancing Lights
Iceland’s wild landscapes make it the ultimate wedding destination. Imagine exchanging vows on a black sand beach or inside a stunning ice cave. Top spots for aurora-watching include:
- Thingvellir National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with incredible scenery.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Where floating icebergs create an unreal setting.
- Vík – A black sand beach with towering basalt columns.
Plan your Iceland wedding
2. Norway – Arctic Fairytale in Tromsø
Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle, is known as the Northern Lights capital of the world. It offers:
- Snowy mountain peaks for an elopement with epic views
- Glass igloos for a cozy wedding night under the auroras
- Dog sledding and reindeer encounters for the ultimate adventure
Explore Norway wedding options
3. Finland – Cozy & Romantic Lapland
Finnish Lapland is straight out of a winter dream, complete with snow-covered forests and magical auroras. Rovaniemi, home of Santa Claus (yes, really), is a popular choice, with incredible venues like:
- Glass-roofed igloos and luxury lodges for a surreal wedding night
- Snowy pine forests for an intimate elopement
- Husky sled rides because why not?
Find Lapland wedding inspiration
4. Alaska – Wild & Remote Love Story
Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the best places in North America for a Northern Lights wedding. With crisp, clear skies and dreamy mountain backdrops, it offers:
- Aurora-viewing lodges with warm fireplaces
- Remote glacier elopements for ultimate adventure seekers
- The Midnight Sun during summer if you want a double experience
Plan your Alaskan elopement
Best Time to Plan Your Aurora Borealis Wedding
Timing is everything. The Northern Lights are most visible between September and April, when nights are long and skies are dark. The peak months for strong aurora activity are December to February.
To increase your chances of catching the lights:
✅ Check the Aurora forecast (NOAA Aurora Forecast)
✅ Avoid full moon nights (moonlight can wash out the aurora)
✅ Stay at least 3-4 nights (nature doesn’t follow a schedule)
How to Capture Breathtaking Aurora Wedding Photos
📸 Find an experienced photographer – Shooting in extreme cold and low light requires skill.
📸 Hold your poses (but don’t freeze) – Long-exposure photography means you need to stay still for crisp shots.
📸 Wear layers! – Yes, you want to look stunning, but frostbite isn’t a great wedding memory.
📸 Use fairy lights – If the aurora takes a night off, string lights add an enchanting glow to your photos.
What If the Northern Lights Don’t Show Up?
The aurora is unpredictable, but don’t panic—your wedding can still be magical:
✨ Create your own glow – Use candles, lanterns, and twinkle lights to add warmth and romance.
✨ Embrace the adventure – Imagine saying vows in an ice cave, on a glacier, or next to a roaring Arctic waterfall.
✨ Enjoy the Arctic charm – Cozy up with hot cocoa, a bonfire, and a fur-lined blanket under the stars.
Your Northern Lights Wedding Checklist
✔ Pick a location with high aurora activity
✔ Choose a date between September and April
✔ Check the weather & aurora forecast
✔ Dress warmly (thermal leggings under your wedding dress = lifesaver!)
✔ Book an experienced Northern Lights photographer
✔ Plan backup options for a stunning ceremony, auroras or not
Final Thoughts: Ready to Say ‘I Do’ Under the Lights?
A wedding under the Northern Lights isn’t just about the photos (though, let’s be honest, they’ll be EPIC). It’s about adventure, romance, and beginning your forever with a celestial blessing.
And if you’re ready to make this dream a reality, I’d love to help capture your love story under the Arctic sky. 💫
✨ Check out my latest blog posts for more destination wedding inspiration.
📷 Explore my photography packages to find the perfect fit.
📩 Ready to plan? Let’s chat! Get in touch here.
Let’s create some happy moments—under the Northern Lights. 🌌💍
