Guide to elope in Lapland and wedding packages
Lapland Intimate Wedding & Elopement Guide
If we could get married again, we would elope in Lapland.
I studied at the University of Lapland in Rovaniemi, so I got to know the place properly. In winter, everything disappears under the snow. The only sounds are your own. In summer, the sun doesn't set at all — you eat dinner at midnight, and it still looks like afternoon.
My favorite elopements are the ones where nature is part of the day, not just the backdrop. Lapland does that. It's quiet in a way that lets you actually be present.
Experience over photos. Always. If you're dreaming about Lapland, keep reading.
Why Get Married in Lapland?
Lapland's ancient fells, frozen lakes, and endless quiet make it one of the most unique places to elope in Europe.
Updated 28th of January 2026
24/7 DAYLIGHT FOR TWO MONTHS
We Finns don't usually even understand how unique our summers are. For those who venture north of the Arctic Circle, the sun does not set at all from May to August, while further south, the sun can be visible for nearly around the clock during June and July.
When nights are almost as light as the day, it is possible to do all the same things that you would do during the day. It’s fascinating to see the incredible change of the light. The sun has a reddish-yellow colour - almost like during sunrise or sunset, and everything around you is very warm.
Reasons to celebrate in Lapland
Lapland elopement guide
The Finnish term Jokaisen oikeus literally means that everyone can walk freely in nature, anywhere they want, as long as they are 50 metres from houses. That also means you can have your ceremony anywhere in our spectacular nature, and there are no restrictions. Besides that, you can put your tent anywhere and taste our nature’s mix - berries and mushrooms.
Right to roam
quietness and clean air
The air in our country is literally cleanest in the world and landscapes are second to none. Endless fells, frozen lakes, snow-covered forests—and almost no one around. There's a reason Finland has been named the happiest country in the world for years in a row, and I think a lot of it comes from places like this. There are many reasons why eloping in Lapland might be the best decision you can make.
THE LAND OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN
What makes Lapland so special?
If you're familiar with the Nordic countries, you're aware that the weather can be quite variable, but Lapland is generally more predictable than you might think. No matter the season, I always have backup plans. The weather in Lapland can shift quickly, but that's part of the adventure.
When to Get Married in Lapland?
What time of year should we marry?
Winter (From November to April)
Winter in Lapland is demanding, so it's crucial to equip yourself with proper attire and a dose of Finnish sisu, which embodies determination and resilience. Winter affects everything: pace, light, planning, clothing, and mindset – but when handled well, it offers some of the rawest and most unforgettable wedding day emotions I’ve ever photographed.
During the summer, the Midnight Sun casts a special glow, making the surroundings extraordinary. This natural phenomenon keeps the night almost as bright as the day, with the sun hovering just above the horizon. You can enjoy hiking and other activities all night long under the continued brightness of the sun.
Summer (From May-June to August-September)
Autumn (From September to November)
In autumn, Lapland transforms as the forests burst into vibrant colors, creating a stunning display known as "ruska." The shorter days and cooler temperatures make this a perfect time for cozy outdoor activities like berry picking and nature walks under the colorful canopy. As the sun sets earlier, you also get the chance to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, adding a magical touch to the crisp autumn evenings.
There are multiple options for your elopement ceremony in Lapland. You don't need a wedding permit in Finland, so you're free to hike into nature and have your ceremony wherever feels right for you.
If you're inviting friends or family, I recommend renting a small cabin as your base, Lapland has some amazing ones in the middle of nowhere.
Most couples who contact me don't really know where to start, and that's completely fine. That's actually the beauty of it. I'll help you find the right place. I don't usually share specific locations publicly because I want to keep them quiet and protect them from erosion, but I'll share everything with you once we start planning.
The most beautiful locations to get married in Lapland
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is a well-known destination in Lapland, famous for its glass igloos and Arctic experiences. However, its popularity means that it attracts large numbers of tourists, which can make it difficult to find the privacy and seclusion that many couples desire for their elopement.
Santa Claus Village is a super popular tourist destination in Rovaniemi, especially during the winter months. The constant crowds and commercial atmosphere can make it difficult to find the intimacy and seclusion that many couples seek for their elopement. But if you want to see the commercial side of things, feel free to check out Santa Claus Village - but for an elopement, it's big no if you ask me.
Ice Hotels in Lapland, while stunning and unique, are primarily designed for tourists, often leading to a busy and crowded environment. These hotels are typically located close to each other, which can detract from the sense of privacy and seclusion that many couples desire for their elopement.
POPULAR DESTINATIONS I WOULD AVOID FOR A SECLUDED wedding in Lapland:
Ylläs and Pallas are connected by one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Lapland. The fells here are big and open, and in winter, the snow-covered landscapes stretch as far as you can see. There's a quietness here that's hard to find anywhere else. The area has charming villages nearby, but once you're on the fell, it's just you and the wilderness.
Best locations for your wedding ceremony
The Best Places to get married in Lapland
Ruka-Kuusamo is one of those places that has a bit of everything. You've got fells, forests, rivers, and some of the most dramatic frozen waterfalls in Finland during winter. It's wild but accessible, you can be in the middle of nowhere in 20 minutes. Because it's not as well-known internationally as some other parts of Lapland, you'll often have these places to yourselves.
Saariselkä is an easy gateway to the wilderness. The Urho Kekkonen National Park starts right from the village, and within an hour of walking, you're completely alone in the fells. In winter, this is one of the best places for northern lights. In autumn, the fall colors here are some of the most vivid in Lapland. It's accessible but still feels wild.
Pyhätunturi is one of the oldest fell areas in Lapland, and you can feel it. There's something ancient about the place—the forests, the ravines, the silence. It's smaller and less crowded than many other ski resorts, which makes it perfect for an intimate elopement. The Pyhä-Luosto National Park is right there, with old-growth forests and stunning views from the top.
cross country skiing and Downhill skiing
Lapland elopement and wedding ideas
Enjoying your special day
Cross-country skiing allows you to explore remote, serene landscapes, making your elopement day about endurance, connection, and the peacefulness of nature. Meanwhile, downhill skiing offers the excitement of the slopes, where you can exchange vows at the peak, surrounded by stunning vistas.
Unique wedding Experiences in Lapland
I don't do cookie-cutter weddings. Every couple is different, and Lapland has so many possibilities and we'll find what feels right for you.
mountain biking and snowshoeing
Cathing northern lights (Check out my Northern lights elopement guide!)
husky sledding (Forget reindeer sledding, sorry)
reading your vows somewhere with nobody watching
writing personal vows in a peaceful cabin morning
walking slowly through a quiet forest or fell trail
What Your Lapland Wedding Could Look Like
This is what you get
Time to simply be together, without needing to entertain anyone
sharing a meal by fire or at a cozy small restaurant
The kind of closeness you’ll remember long after the photos fade
Here's what you need to know:
- You'll need an examination of impediments to marriage (called "avioliiton esteiden tutkinta" in Finnish). Apply at least a month in advance, since it can take up to two weeks. You'll also need a marital status certificate from your home country, less than 4 months old.
- You'll need two witnesses who are at least 15 years old. I'm usually one of them, and I know all the officiants who perform ceremonies in Lapland, so I can help you find the right person and another witness if needed.
- Civil ceremonies are short and simple. I always recommend adding your own vows or some music to make it more personal. I can definitely help you with this!
- For religious ceremonies, you'll need to make arrangements with the religious community directly.
Getting legally married in Lapland
legal requirements to get married in Lapland
Finland elopement packages
- When you look at your photos, I want you to see that story. The story of how you promised each other the rest of your lives, the love you felt, the connection, the great adventures you embarked on together on this day. If you feel it in the moment, you will feel in when looking at the photos. That’s what matters most to me.
Always included in your Lapland wedding packages:
My Philosophy: Experience over photos
- Personalized consultations and planning support, helping you with everything from choosing locations and activities to creating timelines, packing lists, ceremony ideas, and recommending trusted vendors.
- The 60+ Page Experience Over Photos-Guide is packed with valuable tips and insights to guide you through every step of your wedding journey
- As a trail runner and orienteerer, I’m there to help with location scouting, possible permit research, unique finds on accommodations, and hidden gems.
Unlimited recourses and help
- I have a decade of documentary photography experience. I know what elements help you remember how everything felt and how to build a story of your trip.
- I've won the World's biggest wedding photo competition, Junebug Best of the Best, twice: 2023 and 2019.
- With no photo limits, I carefully select and edit each shot in high resolution. Every package includes at least 40 images per hour, personal printing rights, and a secure online gallery with unlimited downloads, ensuring your memories are preserved beautifully.
Award-winning art & a Decade of documentary experience
Finland elopement photographer
+ Coverage from 4 hours, Half Day, Full Day, to 2-3 Days by Jaakko.
+ Explore anywhere in the rural areas, including the north, west, and south Finland.
+ A personalized Experience Over Photos Guide with my Exclusive 60+ Page Guide, Checklist, and resources to help you with locations, vendors, permits, timeline creation and everything that you might need for an unforgettable experience.
+ All your stunning moments and heart-warming photos in a secured & private online gallery
+ Sneak Peeks in 48 hours or less.
+ Travel & lodging fees all included for anywhere in Finland
Starting at € 5,800
(Ranges between €5,800 – €12,800)
Lapland Wedding & Elopement Packages
Finland elopement cost
Choose your elopement package
From multi day experiences to essentials
fun facts & deep thoughts
how i shoot
my work
get to know me
Hi, I'm Jaakko. Adventurer, outdoor enthusiast, husband, father, in love with the wild north. I once lived in Rovaniemi multiple years, and Lapland has stayed with me ever since. I shoot intimate weddings & elopements for people who want to honour their love through a meaningful experience and memories that last for a lifetime.
If you’re like me, a big wedding isn’t for you. Not if you really think about it. And I want you to be brave enough to say no to it. Because I wish my wife and I had been. And I'll be there to capture it all.
Your PHOTOGRAPHER
From start to finish, Jaakko helped us every step of the way - from providing his ideas, guidance, and expertise for locations, logistics, and how to really get into the mood/vibe for the day, to even researching and reaching out to vendors where we had difficulties (navigating Google in a foreign language was an obstacle).
Most of all, though, he brought such a genuine attitude and vibe, almost like we were old friends reconnecting after a long while. We really did feel at ease and comfortable, and without that, there’s no way we would have had such an amazing experience.
Trylani and Jerome, 2025
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“We didn’t know where to start or how to plan. What we love about Jaakko is that he’s passionate about finding the most breathtaking spots off the beaten path, far from tourist crowds. When you finally meet Jaakko in person, all your worries melt away — it feels like reconnecting with an old friend. You’ll find yourself not just with an amazing photographer, but with a lifelong friend.”
GIGI & BERNIC - eloped in 2025
“Planning an elopement in another country was intimidating, but Jaakko guided us through it all — helping us find locations, scouting ceremony spots, and showing us how to prepare. We never felt rushed or set to a specific timeline, and when things didn’t work out as planned, he always had solutions. For those on the fence, if there’s one person who is going to take your elopement as seriously as you and your partner, it’s Jaakko.”
RACHEL & ANDREW - eloped in 2025
"We met a photographer and a new lifelong friend. He was also so awesome in helping sort out some troubles for us that we had. These included how to find a celebrant who would marry us in an isolated area at midday, a few weeks before the day, and also what areas we should choose to have the elopement in, and the pros and cons for each. This helped us find a place to stay, and everything else fell into place around it."
TRISTAN & SURESH - eloped in 2024
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inspiration & ideas for your nordic elopement
