Iceland Vow Renewal | Kristin & Fred
Kristin and Fred’s Iceland vow renewal at Skogafoss Waterfall was nothing short of incredible. With towering moss-covered cliffs and the thunderous roar of one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls as the backdrop, their love story unfolded in one of the most awe-inspiring places I’ve ever had the privilege of photographing.
There’s no better place for an adventurous vow renewal or elopement than Iceland. Its jaw-dropping scenery makes every moment feel cinematic, while the experience of exploring together creates memories you’ll cherish forever. From dramatic waterfalls to quiet black sand beaches, Iceland really has it all.
Why Choose Iceland for Your Vow Renewal or Elopement?
Iceland is the perfect destination for couples looking for a blend of adventure and romance. The dramatic landscapes create a setting that feels almost otherworldly. Personally, I can honestly say that twice in my lifetime, I have become emotional simply by being in the presence of Mother Nature’s beauty, and this was one of them. If you’re curious, the other time was in Loch Vale at RMNP.
Looking back, the natural beauty coupled with the most authentic love shared by the couple is so inspiring. And if you choose to elope or renew your vows in Iceland, you will not regret it! There is truly nothing like it.
That said, planning a destination elopement or vow renewal isn’t without its challenges. Travel arrangements, weather unpredictability, location scouting, and permits can quickly become overwhelming. But that’s where I come in.
Some of the Most Beautiful Iceland Elopement Locations
There’s no shortage of epic spots in Iceland for you to simply visit or exchange your vows. The best spot for you will depend on the kind of backdrops you envision for your big moment and, of course, things like seasonal weather, crowd levels, and accessibility. These are some of my suggestions, but again – there are so many options for you!
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the most unique places I’ve ever seen. Its volcanic black sand, dramatic basalt columns, and crashing Atlantic waves create an otherworldly setting. It’s perfect for couples who want a moody, cinematic vibe, but you’ll need to stay mindful of the powerful sneaker waves that can appear unexpectedly. However, staying safe is easy enough with the right guidance.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
For couples who want a little extra adventure (and don’t mind getting misted), I recommend checking out Seljalandsfoss. What makes this spot stand out is that you can walk behind the tall, beautiful waterfall! Imagine exchanging vows with the sunlight glowing through the spray—it doesn’t get much better than that. Wear waterproof gear for this one and pack a change of clothes. The spray can soak you quickly, but it will be worth it!
Diamond Beach
Imagine a black sand beach dotted with chunks of ice that glisten like diamonds (hence the name) under the Icelandic sun. The contrast between the sparkling ice and the dark sand is jaw-dropping. Sunrise or sunset is the best time to visit for soft, dreamy light.
Thingvellir National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers both historical significance and natural beauty. It’s where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating dramatic rifts and crystal-clear streams. Here’s a variety of different landscapes to see and explore, like valleys, rugged rock formations, and water views. And if you want to have a real adventure, you can go diving between the tectonic plates at the Silfra Fissure!
The Highlands (Landmannalaugar)
The Highlands, specifically the Landmannalaugar region, feel like Iceland’s hidden treasure. The colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming geothermal vents, and rugged lava fields make this area a paradise for adventurous couples. It’s remote, serene, and untouched, offering an opportunity to connect not just with each other but also with the raw beauty of Iceland. Keep in mind, though, that the Highlands are only accessible in summer and require a 4×4 vehicle to reach.
Skogafoss Waterfall
Skogafoss Waterfall is one of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, and for good reason. With its towering 200-foot cascade and the thunderous sound of water meeting the earth, it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring. Moss-covered cliffs frame the waterfall, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a double rainbow glimmering in the mist.
While it’s no secret that Skogafoss is a popular spot, arriving early in the morning or closer to sunset can help avoid the crowds. For an added touch of adventure, you can climb the stairs alongside the waterfall for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
And Skogafoss is exactly where Kristin and Fred decided to exchange their vows.
Kristin & Fred’s Skogafoss, Iceland, Vow Renewal
There are few places in the world that can truly take your breath away, and Skogafoss Waterfall is one of them. Kristin and Kristin exchanged their vows in this awe-inspiring place, and it was nothing short of magical. And while the setting was breathtaking, what truly stood out was Kristin and Fred’s love for one another. After exchanging their vows, they simply let themselves be in the moment. Kristin kicked off her shoes and ran barefoot through the black sand. Fred laughed and chased after her. It was like watching two kids in love, and I couldn’t have been more honored to witness and capture it.
As I mentioned earlier, Skogafoss is a popular tourist destination. When we arrived, we weren’t alone. The parking lot was filled with cars and tour buses, and there were plenty of visitors exploring the area. That being said, if sharing the space is not a concern for you, then finding a photographer who is comfortable with shooting and editing in a way that no one will ever know just by looking at your images that you were not alone is very important.
Not to be too cheesy, but I’ve said before that I left a piece of myself at Skogafoss that day. Maybe it was the sheer beauty of the landscape or the overwhelming love between Kristin and Fred, but something shifted in me as a photographer and as a person. That moment deepened my appreciation for the world’s beauty and reminded me of why I love what I do.
When to Plan Your Iceland Adventure
Another important aspect of planning your Iceland vow renewal or elopement is the timing. Iceland is one of those places where the landscapes and your experience will change dramatically depending on when you visit.
Summer is arguably the best season to visit Iceland, as the country basks in the glow of the midnight sun, giving you nearly 24 hours of daylight to explore. The landscapes are covered in lush greenery, the waterfalls are fully flowing, and you have access to the Highlands. However, it’s also the most popular tourist season, so you need to plan early to lock in accommodations. Also, keep in mind that summer will be a more expensive time to visit due to the demand.
Fall is another good time to visit Iceland. The weather cools down, fall colors start sweeping across the landscapes, and it gets a bit quieter. At the start of October, you may already be able to see some Northern lights, although they are most common in the winter months.
Winter is one of the more challenging times to visit and elope in Iceland, with daylight limited to just a few hours each day and the weather getting colder and rougher. But if you like all the winter vibes and would love to experience the Northern lights at their finest, then winter could also be a good fit.
How to Make the Most of Your Time in Iceland
To truly experience Iceland, I recommend spending at least 5-7 days exploring. This gives you enough time to settle in, enjoy your vow renewal, and soak up the scenery without feeling rushed. If you have the time, extend your trip to 10-14 days to circle the Ring Road and experience the full range of Iceland’s beauty.
In addition to your vow renewal, consider adding some unforgettable activities to your trip, like a glacier tour, visiting the hot springs, going whale watching, or hiking through all the stunning landscapes.
Fred and Kristin chose to have dinner and explore downtown Reykjavik during their elopement, and I was happy to be there to capture it. Not to be dramatic, but as your photographer, these little moments are what I live for. I want to be there for the ceremony, the preparations, the travel, and everything in between to deliver a truly documentary-style piece of art that is not only beautiful but will be able to tell the story of your love for years to come.
Let’s Plan Your Iceland Vow Renewal or Elopement Together!
Kristin and Fred’s vow renewal was more than just a photoshoot for me. It was a reminder of the beauty I get to witness as a photographer—not just in the landscapes but also in the love stories I’m privileged to tell.
This experience left me with a new appreciation for the world and for my art. It also solidified my commitment to helping couples navigate the complexities of destination elopements. I want to take the stress off your plate so you can focus on what really matters.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement or vow renewal in Iceland, I’m here to help you make it happen. Reach out to me here, and let’s create something unforgettable together!
Shoutout to:
Host: Ellie McKinney
Hospitality Coordinator: Retreat Companions
Dresses: Champagne & Lace Bridal & Raw & Golden Rentals
Content Creator: Yazmin Jade
