How to Create Your Lofoten Elopement Timeline

Your Lofoten elopement is your chance to do your wedding your way! This day is all about you and your better half saying “I do” exactly the way you want to. Can you imagine this: gazing into each other's eyes on a secluded beach, the sound of waves crashing behind you as you exchange intimate vows. Does it get more perfect?

This special day should mirror you two and what makes your adventure-loving hearts tick - whether it's kayaking, hiking a mountain trail, or just taking in nature at its best.

If your dream elopement in Lofoten means saying your vows atop a mountain peak on a crisp and beautiful fall day or on a secluded sandy beach warmed by the midnight sun, you must plan everything ahead to ensure you can have a magical, love-filled and fun special day. Here’s how to create a Lofoten elopement timeline that lets your individual love story shine.

Tip #1 - Plan a Full Day

You might wonder, "How can an elopement last a whole day?" Well, when you’re adventuring in Lofoten’s epic landscapes, it’s pretty much impossible not to lose track of time! Enjoy the morning walking hand-in-hand along the beach, stealing kisses as you head to a hidden lake surrounded by jagged mountains, hike a mountain and pop some champagne to celebrate while enjoying the midnight sun…you get the idea!

This is a chapter in your love story, so you want to give it plenty of time to unfold naturally. Don't feel pressured to cram everything into a few hours. Instead, plan an entire day dedicated to exploring, celebrating your love, and soaking in the magic of Lofoten. Rushing through your elopement fails to honor the beauty of your special occasion. 

So, build in plenty of time for pre-ceremony prep. The same goes for the actual vow exchange and an extended session of elopement photography in Lofoten to truly capture you two blissfully in love. Don't forget to allow time for popping a bottle of champagne while toasting your future, or for your first dance on the beach.

Tip #2 - Choose the Best Light

Lofoten's otherworldly landscapes look their best, bathed in breathtaking lighting. Schedule your elopement in Lofoten to take advantage of nature's radiance. During spring, autumn, and winter, plan your days around sunrise and sunset, this gives the best soft yet magical light for your photos. Lofoten's summers bring the magical midnight sun;this means you have 24 hours of light for outdoor activities. You can enjoy the day together in the sun and still have enough light for a later ceremony and portraits bathed in a warm glow while saying your vows. If it's a cloudy day that’s even better! Clouds create nice even lighting which is extremely flattering in photos.

Tip #3 - Be Flexible

When you're planning your elopement to be outside in nature all day, you’re going to have to go with the flow. Lofoten weather is moody which is great for photos but unexpected weather can throw you a curveball, or things just might not always go as you expect. Don’t stress! It just means you might need to adjust your timeline based on the weather. Flexibility is key, so don't forget to pinpoint a back-up day as a total last resort. You can reschedule your Lofoten elopement, but only if absolutely necessary! Don’t worry though, there will always be plenty of alternative options if Mother Nature throws a wrench in your plans.

Tip #4 - Decide Where You Want to Get Dressed: At the Cabin or Wedding Location?

Depending on your ceremony location and how far you need to hike, choosing where to  change clothing can affect how your day plays out. After all, if you are planning on walking or hiking to your ceremony location, dragging your drop-gorgeous wedding gown through muddy trails might not be the most practical and comfortable option. Perhaps, carefully packing it and carrying it with you and everything you need to get ready at the ceremony location is the better choice.

Alternatively, if you are up for trekking in your wedding attire or aren’t planning on walking too far you can get dressed in your wedding outfit at your cabin and layer protective clothing on top. If you are having your ceremony at the beach or during a lighter walk, this is a great idea and you can even have your first look at your cabin. It’s up to you where you would like to put on your wedding outfits, but ultimately comfort and practicality should be the decision maker.

Tip #5 - Do What You Want

Your elopement is your real wedding. You and the love of your life have one chance to make it forever memorable. You should do whatever speaks to your innermost and basest feelings. If you want to kayak, hike, take a boat ride to a secluded beach or have a picnic lunch surrounded by the mountains, plan your day doing whatever your heart desires. Enjoy a slower paced day of relaxation or non-stop adventure.

Tip #6 - Create a Detailed Timeline

Make a detailed schedule to ensure your Lofoten elopement unfolds beautifully and without a hitch. Allow ample time as things always take a little bit longer than you expect. Remember to build in travel time between locations and give some wiggle room for unpredictable weather.

More importantly, break down your timeline into four broad categories:

Getting Ready and Pre-Ceremony Activities

Traditionally, you will get ready separately, building anticipation until the moment of your first look. This generally includes the process of doing your hair, make-up and getting dressed. You will want to give yourself plenty of time for this, taking photos, and any last-minute touches. A newer tradition is to have a first look before the ceremony which allows you to a quiet moment seeing each other all dressed up in your wedding clothes before saying "I do."

Ceremony

This is the heart of your elopement in Lofoten and the moment you have been waiting for. You will have chosen your ceremony location before which you will either drive or hike to. When you get to your location you will exchange your vows and rings. What your ceremony will look like is up to you, whether you are have a symbolic or legal ceremony.

Post-Ceremony

You're married! Pop the champagne and celebrate the moment. If you have any guests with you, gather them together to celebrate your newly wed status and get a group photo. After capture the joy and connection of your special day with a stunning elopement photography session in Lofoten.

Just because you're eloping doesn’t mean you can forget about food! Whether you choose a simple picnic or would like to stop for a decadent dinner at a restaurant, celebrate your union in a way that feels special to you.

First Dance or Gift Exchange

Weave in any personal traditions you'd like to include, such as a first dance beneath the midnight sun or exchanging meaningful gifts.

Conclusion

The most important thing about your Lofoten elopement to do what sets your hearts on fire. Celebrate your love by crafting a Lofoten elopement timeline catering to your wildest dreams. Remember, it's all about doing it your way and cherishing every moment of this incredible adventure.

If your planning your Lofoten Elopement send me a quick email here or check out my elopement packages.