When Lisa and Ryan decided to say “I do,” they didn’t want timelines, guest lists, or the usual wedding day whirlwind. They wanted quiet. Beauty. A setting that felt bigger than themselves. That search led them back to the place where their love story deepened—Iceland. 

Their journey began in 2020 while working as nurses during the pandemic. Just weeks into dating, they watched the series Down to Earth and were captivated by the wild, untouched scenery featured in one episode. Lisa booked flights that same night, and six weeks later they were exploring the Ring Road. One night beneath the Northern Lights, Ryan said “I love you” for the first time. 

So when it came time to choose a wedding location, there was no debate. An elopement in Iceland was the only choice. They picked Reynisfjara Beach and Solheimajokull Glacier, two breathtaking backdrops that capture the country’s nickname, “the land of fire and ice.” Rather than building a full vendor team, they hired just one person. Junebug vendor Christina Raytsiz whose talent, warmth, and transparent pricing made her an easy yes. “She was more than a photographer,” Lisa said. “She helped us plan, pick locations, suggest attire, and even brought us hand warmers.”

What We Love About This Elopement in Iceland

• The couple returned to the country where Ryan first said “I love you”
• A color palette chosen specifically to pop against Iceland’s moody scenery
• Their photographer doubled as a planner, location scout, and stylist
• A sunrise vow exchange on a rock overlooking Reynisfjara’s black sand beach
• Post-ceremony pizza in downtown Vik, still in wedding attire

Featured Vendor:

Chris Ray Photos

Turning One Trip Into a Vacation, Wedding, and Honeymoon

Because they had already booked flights to Iceland for November, they folded their wedding into that trip, turning it into a three-in-one—vacation, wedding, and honeymoon. “It was for a fraction of the cost of doing each separately,” Ryan explained. They funneled their budget into what mattered most to them, photography, attire, and experiences, while keeping the venue free.

To make the day stress-free, they got ready together at their Airbnb, helping each other with final touches before heading to their first look. The only timeline was the sun.

A Vow Exchange as Intimate as It Gets

At sunrise, their photographer, Christina, positioned them on a rock formation overlooking the black sand beach. The golden light hit their faces as they read their vows. Just the two of them, the ocean, and the waves crashing below.

“We could authentically be ourselves, without the nervousness of reading our deepest promises in front of a crowd,” Lisa said.

Celebrating Their Elopement in Iceland With Pizza in Wedding Attire

After hiking the glacier for photos, hunger set in. Still in wedding attire, they ducked into Halldorskaffi in downtown Vik, where the staff baked them a fresh pizza and celebrated their day with them. “We laughed the entire time, changing into hiking clothes in the bathroom. It was the best pizza and service we’ve ever had,” Ryan recalled.

What They Wish Every Couple Knew About Eloping

For Lisa and Ryan, there’s nothing they would change. “Focus on what you value together,” Lisa advised. “The hair will fall, makeup will fade, food will be eaten, and decor will come down. But the photos, words, memories, and marriage will last a lifetime.”