Before you pop the champagne in celebration of choosing a destination wedding location and become totally intoxicated with the idea of getting married in Iceland, there are a few things you should know before you start Iceland Wedding Planning.  Today, we would like to advise you on 15 Things You Should Know Before Having a Wedding in Iceland…

1. Unpredictable Weather – No joke folks, Iceland is easily the most unruly weather place in the world. It doesn’t matter if you’re getting married in Iceland on December 1^st, July 1^st, or October 1^st.  You can have an Iceland wedding or elopement full of rain, sun, sleet, snow, sand storms, 15mph winds or gale force winds, who knows!  The weather being so unruly through is part of the reason why you have such a vibrant landscape scenes, especially in Southern Iceland.  You will need to come to terms with the possibility of challenging weather (and go out and play in it so you can get those AMAZING Iceland wedding photos, okay?), because there is a high probability that it may happen.  So please be prepared (IE, Rain gear, Hot Hands, Have your Iceland Hairstylist super pin your hair back/up, use MAC cosmetics – HELLO waterproof Iceland wedding makeup, and an Iceland Wedding Coat)!

2. Icelandic Holidays and Events– There are MANY. Why does this matter to you?  In the countryside, many times restaurants will have limited hours or be closed.  Also, if you will be having an Iceland Wedding or Icelandic Elopement, you will need to get your marriage paper work / license from the regional District Commissioner and they are closed on Icelandic Holidays and only work M-F (outside of holidays) typically from 9-2pm GMT.  Likewise many times Icelandic celebrants will not work on the National holidays so keep that in mind when choosing a Iceland wedding date.  Have a look HERE to peruse the dates.  It is also very important for you to know what events may be happening during your desired wedding date… The last thing you want to do is pick a day/weekend and location that is going to be way over populated and filled with people EVERYWHERE or worst yet, sharing your wedding space with another couple!  Note: Our clients need not worry because we do not plan weddings at mainstream locations where this happens.

3. Driving in Iceland: We have a fantastic previous blog post HERE on that topic. If you don’t want to read then at least click on the below:

www.safetravel.is

www.road.is

www.vedur.is

4. Iceland is not a cheap country, regardless of how cheap your plane ticket is.  It is in fact one of the most expensive in Europe and most certainly in the world.  Remember: Iceland is an ISLAND and most of everything is imported (including most food) making it high priced to eat, adventure, and shop. Examples: Rental cars here in summer for an economy car range between $80-100 USD per day; Breakfast for 1 person $18 USD; lunch for 1 person: $28-35 USD; Dinner $48-65 per person.  There are only 4 American fast-food joints here also, KFC, Taco Bell, Subway, Quiznos and they are still fairly expensive to American terms (no dollar menus like you’re use to).  So unless you only want your diet to consist of hot dogs, I would urge you to be ready and save up.

5. Credit Cards (VISA / Master Card) are accepted 98% of the places you’ll go and most restaurants will also take AMEX. No need to exchange money (ISK – Iceland Kronurs) unless paying people on your Iceland wedding day (Celebrant, Iceland Hairstylist or Makeup Artist) or unless you want to buy a Pylsur from the famous hot dog stand or a snack from the downtown Reykjavik food trucks.

6. Icelandair “My Stopover” – This is one tidbit I wish was happening way back when I was first married here in Iceland (way back when before it was cool) because I think my guests would have LOVED to take advantage of it. What is Icelandair’s offer of a “Stop Over?”  They allow you to do a practically “free” stop in Iceland for up to 7 days on the beginning of your trip or after it.  Which means you could fly from NYC to Iceland (hold your Iceland wedding or elopement) for up to 7 days and then go honeymoon in some other awesome European destinations (like to Norway, France, Scotland, etc).

7. Natural Wonders in Iceland can be Dangerous!  No joke folks and that perfect Instagram photo or selfie is not worth your life, okay?  Examples of where to take heed:

• Fjadrargljufur Canyon – Heed the roped path okay? The place is often a mud slip-and-slide and falling 200 meters isn’t on the Iceland wedding agenda.

• Geysir – Stand behind the designated ropes because I promise, 3^rd degree burns will ruin your Golden Circle tour.

• Gullfoss Waterfall – In winter (December-March) the path down to the waterfall is closed for a reason and the reason is because it is ICY and you could plummet to your Niagara Falls style death. But then during Spring/Summer/Fall – Don’t take silly risks either.  The other day I saw a photographer on Instagram post a photo of a couple standing on a moss cliff edge inches from the powerful waterfall (search the “icelandwedding” hashtags for around May 11^th 2016 and you’ll see it).  Moss/Dirt piles are unstable and dangerous and that is why you should not venture off the roped path. Too many tourists before you have made that area unstable and you could now be the one that serves as the risky example.  Think about consequences, not “the perfect shot,” okay?

• Godafoss / Dettifoss Waterfall (Northern Iceland waterfalls) – Be careful here too folks. The above warning applies to these waterfalls too.

• Jökulsárlon Glacier Lagoon – So we all know ice melts and is generally unstable, right? Only hop onto ice that is fully stable on LAND, not with water under it.  Otherwise you could be a laughed at news article and face fines if the Iceland Search and Rescue team have to come rescue you like these silly tourists.

• Reynisfjara Beach – This beach is gorgeous, yes. However during the winter months (November-April) this location has limited accessibility because of the strong currents/waves.  So the cave or the basalt rocks will not be accessible to you, so just come back in summer okay?  But know, even in summer venturing out into the water at this black sand beach is not a good idea.  Remember what I said about strong currents?  I’m not joshing.

Don’t tempt fate and respect nature.

8. Arctic Char: It’s more delicious than salmon, order it wherever you go and never ever be disappointed.

9. Best Places to see Icelandic Wildlife:

• Reindeer Deer – Egilsstaðir (Eastern Iceland)
• Puffins – Vestmannaeyjar or Dyrholaey (Southern Iceland)
• Whales – Husavik (Northern Iceland)
• Arctic Foxes – Hornstrandir /Ísafjarðardjúp (Westfjords)

10. If you’re planning on going the budget route and camp around Iceland, I encourage you to get the “Camping Card.”

11. Duty Free Upon Arrival is one of my favorite things about flying into Iceland. Why?  Mainly because the alcohol sold there has a better selection and a fraction of the cost of what it costs in stores around the country. Second, because you can order online and in advance.  So for someone who HATES shopping, I can place my order online, give them the reference number upon landing and then they have it ready and ring it all up for me right then and there.  You should try it out, HERE.  Also see a calculator for how much alcohol you can purchase upon arrival HERE.  Remember though, you still must stay within the usual customs boundaries if you do not wish to pay duty.  See those rules again HERE.

12. Tax Free Shopping all around the country! Most of the places you’ll want to buy Icelandic wool sweaters, blankets, souvenirs, etc, have a Global Blue sticker outside of their door which means you’ll get money back (if you spend more than 6,000 ISK per purchase).  So make sure you ask for the form / receipt upon check out if the location participates!  Fill it out and then when you’re leaving Iceland, you will follow the signs to “Tax Refund.”

13. Will your phone work in Iceland? Check with your provider before you come here.  Otherwise… If you’re not going to be doing “f-roads” or offbeat adventuring and you have a GPS with Icelandic maps installed, then you can get away with just using your cell phones on wifi.  Best option: If you have “unlocked” phones you can buy a SIM card to put in your phone (they sell in the Duty Free Shop nearby to where you get your checked luggage).  Otherwise another option would be buying a cheap prepaid phone at duty free upon arrival, but I would suggest you pre-buy to ensure they have ready and in stock when you arrive.  See HERE.

14. Grocery Stores in Iceland:
    1. Best American grocery items store: Kostur (sadly this store has no closed!)
    2. Hagkaup
    3. Kronan
    4. Bonus (cheapest)
    5. Netto (later hours)
    6. Costco (Note: They sell U.K products, not American)

15. Buying Alcohol in Iceland: Where can you buy Icelandic Beer, Spirits, Wine, and Champagne?  There is only one company allowed to sell outright and that is as follows:  Vinbudin.  Note: You can not buy alcohol in grocery stores (sorry my American friends).

I hope this informational post has helped you begin your planning for your Iceland wedding!

With a smile, Ann Peters + Team (Iceland Adventure Wedding Planners + Photographers)

© 2016, Iceland Wedding Planner /  Photos by Miss Ann, All Rights Reserved.

The post 15 Things You Should Know Before Having a Wedding in Iceland appeared first on Iceland Wedding Planner.

There are only a handful of locations that I’ve been to where I have felt at harmony in silence and extreme compulsions of excitement all at the same time and East Iceland definitely brought that out! 

Why?

One reason is because of the rich folklore that follows this area… Like the sea-worm monster (Wyrm or Lagarfljotsormur) hiding in the famed Lagarfljot lake area (which happens to be the deepest lake in Iceland) and many spots within the mountains and fjords being enchanted by elves.  I love Icelandic folklore =) The second reason is for the abundance of secret waterfalls both cold flowing and geothermal heated (Which is total heaven for me, being a huntress of secret waterfalls!).  Plus as a bonus, there are uniquely shaped mountains and secluded caves I have never ever seen before.  All of which would make a magical and unforgettable backdrop for your Iceland wedding photos!  Are you sold yet?

My most recent adventure to Iceland’s East Fjords:  I started my trek East from Vik after a gorgeous April wedding, so it was about a 7 hour drive (so from Reykjavik about 9-10 hours straight through or could have been a short 1 hour flight) and it was one of the most beautifully inspiring drives I have done within Iceland, especially once I got into the flowing fjord areas.  As I drove (even in the rain), I encountered tons of rolling hills through the mountains and I was side by side to the ocean, seeing reindeer jump alongside, and the landscape somehow became more vivid and rugged as the drive continued.

The urge I had to pull into every fjord town was uncanny.  …I kept thinking what amazing locations are down that road?  I.MUST.GO.  But sadly, being early April, many of the fjord towns were closed because the walls of snow are so big (even too big for super jeeps to get through).  Fun Fact: The town’s people (like in Mjóifjörður), often have to sail by boat to get their weekly grocery provisions through the months of November and May.  Being such a remote area as well, locales also say they often see Northern Lights shinning from late August to late April.  #WorthIt

Extreme sports junkies will get their fill in summer or in winter by exploring the landscape via super jeeps, ATV’s, snowmobiles, or going on winter hikes to isolated waterfalls and caves.  If you are a lower key adventure seeker you can kind solace in natural hot springs, bird watching, learn about what life was once like from an Icelandic farmer or fisherman, enjoy the silence of the earth under the stars (or the Northern Lights), or spend the day relaxing in one of Iceland’s best spa’s!

While out discovering East Iceland, you’ll find some of the most dynamic fjords I’ve ever seen, with names I can actually pronounce too =) Iceland’s deepest canyon also calls home to this area, which might one of the areas brightest most interesting gems.  The famed Vatnajokull Glacier can also be accessed from this side and you’ll also notice that the glacier seems whiter, the greenery is a vivid green I never knew existed and the black sand throughout this area is a shade of black I’ve never seen before.  Purity at its best lives in East Iceland.

The town of Egilsstadir and surrounding fjord towns, are one of the oldest areas of Iceland and vaunts some of the most amazing elements and hiking areas I’ve seen, all within 30-60 minutes or less of the town center.  There are also several restaurants within the town I found myself totally addicted to eating at, so rest assured if you visit, you’ll be well fed and appreciating in the locale delights!

Can you imagine yourself holding your Iceland Wedding or dreamy Icelandic Elopement, in one of Iceland’s largest forest areas?  Chasing secret waterfalls?

…Or what about romantically eloping by venturing up to the amazingly shaped pristine Snaefell volcano mountain and having herds of reindeer as your guests?  It’s possible and we’d love to hand craft some dreamy options for you to fill your adventure wedding desires!  Please contact us for more information on planning a wedding or elopement in East Iceland.

With a smile, Ann Peters + Team (Iceland Adventure Wedding Planners + Photographers)

© 2016, Iceland Wedding Planner /  Photos by Miss Ann, All Rights Reserved.

The post East Iceland Wedding Locations (Egilsstaðir Weddings) appeared first on Iceland Wedding Planner.

Do you remember their stunning Iceland wedding last April?  It was magical.  If you cannot recall right away, I encourage you to go back HERE or to Destination I Do  Magazine to swoon over their dreamy Iceland wedding day!

Bethany + Richard, we wish you an endless amount of more anniversary’s to share and we welcome you back to Iceland anytime =)  …savor this amazing time together!

With a smile, Ann Peters + Team (Iceland Adventure Wedding Planners + Photographers)

© 2016, Iceland Wedding Planner /  Photos by Miss Ann, All Rights Reserved.

The post Idyllic Iceland Wedding Anniversary appeared first on Iceland Wedding Planner.

Let me guess, you might be at the point right now, where you have bought your stunning Iceland destination wedding dress and are now totally confused about what would be an elegant add on for your ears, hands, or hair… Right?  Don’t worry lovely, I have you covered with some fresh ideas!

One of my favorite makeup artists Catina, from The Beauty Room has recently expanded her business scope to include some stunning bridal accessories via the lovely line of Chloe and Isabel.  Have you heard of this beautiful company before?  They have the most amazing mission statement I adore as follows:

Be Creative.

Be Confident.

Be You.

The jewelry screams: Gorgeous Me, Romance Me, Love Me, Kiss Me, Compliment Me, and Ravish Me all at the same time!  They have endless options in all of you beautiful ladies styles, as you’ll peruse below…

If your Iceland wedding accessory style is between Vintage Romance to Earthy Boho… Try this:

But then maybe you decide that being a Princess for the day is more up your alley and want to GLAM it up!  Options for you HERE pretty!

Or are you are a gal who doesn’t frequently wear jewelry?  So doing something more soft and understated like THIS may be more comfortable to don on your Iceland Wedding Day.

If you’re dying to take on the full on Hollywood Glam mode, I dare you to adorn THESE!

So many styles of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and headpieces to choose from!

Let your Iceland wedding adventure begin perfectly styled with warm inviting bling on around your neck, your hands or hair!  I can just see you now with THESE beauties adorning your beautiful Iceland wedding dress!

Endless options to consider, so take a few minutes to explore these beautiful and affordable Iceland wedding jewelry, via Catina’s website HERE.

I simply, cannot wait to be your Iceland wedding photographer and photograph these beauties on your bod!  …Now somebody PLEASE find a fast forward button so I can see what you picked!!!!

With a smile, Ann Peters + Team (Iceland Adventure Wedding Planners + Photographers)

© 2016, Iceland Wedding Planner, All Rights Reserved.

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The post Iceland Wedding Dress Accessories appeared first on Iceland Wedding Planner.

Today, you’ll find Shira + Matan‘s amazing Iceland adventure wedding celebrated on Destination I Do Magazine!  Go check out the amazing feature, here!

PS- Come back next week because we have on tap one of our BEST Iceland Wedding Blog Posts EVER (yes I dare to say that, for real)!

With a smile, Ann Peters + Team (Iceland Wedding Photographers and Iceland Adventure Wedding Planners)

© 2016, Iceland Wedding Planner /  Photos by Miss Ann, All Rights Reserved

The post Iceland Wedding Adventure Featured | Destination “I Do” Magazine appeared first on Iceland Wedding Planner.