When Shelbi and Shawn began planning their big day, they knew they didn’t want anything conventional. No big venue, no reception, no bouquet—just the two of them in a place that was deeply meaningful to their story. Their minimal Iceland elopement wasn’t just a wedding, it was a chance to honor their love in a setting that had shaped them from the very beginning.

“Iceland was the first trip we took as a couple. The landscape and history left us speechless and wanting more,” they shared. Their love for the country only grew with each visit, and by their third trip, they were engaged. Choosing Iceland as their wedding destination felt like the most natural decision in the world.

Their adventure led them to an unexpected gem—an inselberg on a black sand beach, a spot that wasn’t even on their itinerary. “We came across a place that was not in our plans. A large inselberg on a black sand beach.” A spontaneous hike turned into a memorable adventure. Shelbi, eager to explore, found herself hiking alone to the summit while Shawn waited below, anxiously watching the clock. As the fog rolled in, Shelbi reached the top and found complete solitude, while Shawn, concerned, began to panic. “When deciding the ceremony location, it was perfect. It was where we had already shared an unforgettable experience—navigating through the challenges of getting lost and finding each other again.”

Featured Vendor:

Ást og Hraun

When it came to their wedding attire, Shelbi and Shawn stayed true to their minimalist style, but with their own personal twist. “The color black is Shawn’s go-to for everything fashion-related. So an all-black suit was fitting for the occasion. Also paired with Vans, came as no surprise as his collection is in the multiples.” Shelbi, initially aiming for simplicity, found herself drawn to a dramatic black dress. “Just because I wanted to keep things minimalistic didn’t mean the dress had to be! I typically dress with eclectic and timeless pieces, and this is what the dress should be. And because two is better than one, we have the black dress.”

Nail the winter bride look with our roundup of cute wedding boots, from western and glam to adventurous weather-proof styles.

Their ceremony was as unique as their relationship—an intimate affair held by an Ásatrú priest, set against Iceland’s dramatic and moody backdrop. “The ceremony was beyond expectations. His words, we will carry for a lifetime. I could not stop crying, which I never ever do.” They also couldn’t speak highly enough of their officiant, Haukur Bragason, who canceled his own plans and drove five hours to be there for them.

Related: Should I Have A First Look At My Wedding?

Recommended Reading: How To Find And Choose Your Wedding Officiant?

Related: Ways To Involve Loved Ones In Your Elopement

The couple’s minimal Iceland elopement continued as an adventure, capturing the raw emotions of the day with the help of their talented photographers and Junebug vendor, Daria and Hjalti from Ást og Hraun. “Our elopement was unforgettable for so many reasons, and entirely thanks to them. It was such a joy working with them. Their energy and passion did not go unnoticed.” Daria and Hjalti’s ability to capture the couple’s intimate moments made the day even more memorable. “It truly was special, to see their eyes light up before executing the most perfect shot!”

A special moment came later in the day when Daria and Hjalti suggested a final unplanned stop at Skogafoss. The couple returned to the place where, six years earlier, they had shared a significant moment: Shawn had asked, “How do we take it all in? I don’t want to leave,” and Shelbi had responded, “We will get married here.” Now, they were back, dancing, laughing, and embracing in the misty beauty of the falls as midnight approached.

In addition to showcasing their personal style, they also found practical ways to keep costs down. In addition to their unique and personal style, they also made ways to keep their budget manageable. “We were able to cut costs since we did not have a reception. No venue fee! We got pizza to go and ate as we traveled around.” Without flowers, cake, or a venue, they had the freedom to splurge on two dresses. “Eloping is a hard decision for most, but it was entirely perfect for us. We are proud of making a choice for us.”

Shelbi and Shawn’s minimal Iceland elopement wasn’t just a wedding—it was a chapter in their story, set in a country that’s meant so much to them. It was exactly what they wanted, from the intimate ceremony to all those raw, real moments captured by their photographers.

If you’re thinking about eloping, they have one 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.” Their elopement was more than just a day to celebrate love—it was made even more special by the incredible people who helped bring it all to life.