“Iceland was our first trip we took as a couple,” recall newlyweds Shelbi + Shawn. “The landscape and history left us speechless and wanting more. We’ve revisited multiple times and since renamed it our second home. Our third trip, we left engaged.”
If you’re into stunning scenery (and who isn’t?), you’ll probably fall in love with Iceland just like Shelbi + Shawn did. “When planning our wedding, it became no surprise that Iceland would be the location of our special day,” the couple says. So they teamed up with photographer couple Daria + Hjalti of Ást og Hraun and set about planning an elopement full of Icelandic adventure along the country’s southern coast.
Black sand beaches. Black wedding dresses. A cascading waterfall. These photos are breathtaking, and we can’t wait to give you a taste of Shelbi + Shawn’s moody + romantic day!
Getting Ready
The couple started their elopement day getting ready together at Black Beach Suites.
“I am very minimalistic, and wanted to stand true to that. No flower bouquet, no cake, no dance party; just us. So when it came to finding a dress I thought I wanted the same. Something simple,” remembers Shelbi. “I very untraditionally ordered a simple dress online to be shipped and tried on in my bedroom. I tried it on and didn’t feel right. Just because I wanted to keep things minimalistic didn’t mean the dress had to be!”
Just look at that pristine high bun! Such a sophisticated version of the bridal updo.
We’re loving Shelbi’s pale pink french almond shaped wedding nails.
Take a look at our list of neutral + natural nails for even more minimalistic nail inspo.
Okay. We’re in love. The Frances High-Neck Lace Sheath Wedding Gown from Watters is a delicate sheer lace masterpiece.
An adventurous Icelandic elopement definitely calls for a chunky sole pair of wedding boots!
The First Look
We love that Shawn went for a no-tie, open collar look with his black wedding suit.
Look through our list of the best long sleeve wedding dresses to embrace Shelbi’s long sleeve bridal energy.
And check out our collection of the best high neck wedding dresses if you’re loving this neckline like we are!
The Ceremony
“An intimate celebration which highlighted adventure was our inspiration,” the couple says. “The day included a unique ceremony held by Asatru priest in the midst of nature’s artistry.”
Officiant Haukur Bragason bound the couple together in the presence of a small handful of their nearest + dearest.
We love the simplicity of Shelbi’s diamond wedding band.
And how beautifully it pairs with her classic, single-stone engagement ring!
The Adventure Begins
“After the ceremony, we spent the remaining hours exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscape alongside our photographers Daria and Hjalti from Ást og Hraun,” say Shelbi + Shawn. “Their remarkable talent effortlessly captured our unfiltered intimacy and pure emotion. We owe it to them for bringing our dream to life.”
“Our elopement was unforgettable for so many reasons, and entirely thanks to Daria and Hjalti. It was such a joy working with them. Their energy and passion did not go unnoticed. It truly was special, to see their eyes light up before executing the most perfect shot! Our hearts are so full, such an intentional and personal experience. And as you can see, a work of ART.”
Take a look at this erupting Icelandic volcano elopement for even more absolutely epic Iceland elopement inspo.
Our elopement location roundup, The 25 Best Places To Elope For Jaw-Dropping Photos, will definitely be helpful if these incredible shots have you thinking about tying the knot somewhere stunning.
Kvernufoss
Next, the couple embraced the moody mists at the base of the waterfall Kvernufoss.
For this part of the day, Shelbi let her hair down and made a dramatic change into the Timeless one-shoulder frill-layered ball gown in black from Milla.
“Because two is better than one, we have the black dress,” says the bride. “A contrast of sorts, dramatic, a true dream incarnate.”
Dive into our collection of the most beautiful black wedding dresses if an all-white wedding day doesn’t sound like your bridal vibe.
Our Advice
It was very important to us and we want to use it as a piece of advice: hire local. Coming from out of state or in our case out of the country, find ways to honor the people, land, and traditions. Additionally, truly do it your way! We were able to look back on the day and say it went exactly how we dreamed.
Skógafoss
Finally, the couple embraced the moody mists at the base of the waterfall Kvernufoss, a meaningful location for them and a surprise stop organized by their photographers.
Our Favorite Memory
After a long heart filled day, Daria and Hjalti encouraged us to continue to one last unplanned location. We were met with solitude, an ethereal presence, at the mouth of Skogafoss. The same place we stood six years prior, he said “How do we take it all in? I don’t want to leave,” and “We will get married here.” A full circle moment against a misty backdrop, dancing, laughing, embracing one another in the light of darkness welcoming the midnight hour.
Congratulations, Shelbi + Shawn on your moody + romantic elopement in Iceland. GWS wishes you so much happiness!
Wedding Vendors
Photography: Ást og Hraun // Wedding Dress: Watters Designs // Wedding Dress: Milla // Officiant: Haukur Bragason // hotel: Black Beach Suites
