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Marion Lefevre Photography

HOW TO PLAN AN INTIMATE WEDDING IN LAPLAND

The guide to getting married in Finnish Lapland

Lapland is the land of ancient forests, serene lakes and untouched wilderness, creating the perfect atmosphere.

Considering to have 
YOUR WEDDING IN FINNISH LAPLAND?

Imagine exchanging vows in a quiet forest, surrounded by the ethereal glow of the snow. The region offer an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, unique experiences, and romantic settings that make it the perfect wedding destination.


I'm Marion, a local photographer with a deep love for the Arctic. With years of experience capturing intimate weddings, I bring both creativity and seasoned expertise to help you plan the perfect wedding day(s). Beyond just taking beautiful photos, I'm here to guide you every step of the way, making sure your wedding is true to you and your story.

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1. ENVISION YOUR WEDDING DAY(S).
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Imagine exchanging vows in the forest surrounded by snow glistening in the soft light. The fresh, crisp air fills your lungs, the tranquility and purity of the surroundings enhancing the solemnity of the occasion.

After the ceremony, enjoy unique activities by exploring the wilderness on a hike, hunting for northern lights on a reindeer ride or snowmobiling to a secluded summit. Imagine a reception in a cosy log cabin serving delicious traditional cuisine, offering a true taste of the north.

By immersing yourself in these vivid and enchanting images, you can truly begin to dream and envision your wedding day.​ Ask, "what is unique to us?", "what do we enjoy doing together?". Your wedding day should be a reflection of who you are and how you dream to start your married life together.

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ITINERARY EXAMPLE

Having two days celebration will allow you to experience both the intimacy of an intimate wedding and joy of celebrating with your loved ones. This itinerary is suitable for an adventurous couple wanting a micro wedding in Lapland (5 to 20 guests).

 

DAY 1 - ADVENTURE THE WILDERNESS (NO GUESTS)

09.30 - Meeting at your cabin.

10.30 - Drive to the hiking location.

11.00 - Snowshoe hike to the top of the hill stopping for a few photos along the way.

12.00 - Break at the lean-to-shelter to share a picnic around the open fire.

13.00 - Writing of your vows surrounded by the views.

14.00 - Head back to your cabin and rest for the next day.

DAY 2 - THE WEDDING DAY (WITH GUESTS)

08.30 - Meeting at your cabin for brunch.

09.30 - Getting ready at your cabin.

11.00 - First look in the surroundings.

11.30 - Drive to the wilderness to exchange your vows privately

12.00 - Short walk while taking portraits.

13.00 - Drive to the ceremony location.

14.00 - Ceremony.

14.30 - Wedding Lunch/Dinner at your venue.

16.00 - Cake-cutting.

17.00 - First dance.

18.00 - Departure for a northern lights reindeer safari with guests.

19.00 - Change into outdoor clothing.

19.30 - Reindeer Safari.

23.00 - Head back to the cabin.

2. GUESTS or JUST THE TWO OF YOU?

Intimacy

If you dream of an intimate, private ceremony focused solely on the two of you, getting married intimately might be the perfect option. On the other hand, if sharing this special moment with family and friends is important, inviting guests will add a celebratory atmosphere.

Budget

Accounting for travel and accommodation costs for guests is important. Decide if your budget can accommodate these additional expenses. Remember that a smaller guest list or no guests at all can significantly reduce costs.

Logistical

Think about the logistics of organizing a wedding in a remote location. Coordinating travel, accommodation, and activities for a group can be challenging. If the prospect of managing these details feels overwhelming, a smaller guest list or no guest at all might be more appealing.

Experience and atmosphere

Reflect on the type of wedding experience you want. A larger gathering can create a lively, festive atmosphere, while a smaller or guest-free wedding offers a more serene and personal experience. 

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3.THE BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR A WEDDING IN LAPLAND?

Winter wedding (December to March)
During these months, the north is covered in snow, offering an ethereal atmosphere with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. This season is perfect for a cozy, romantic wedding. However, be prepared for very cold temperatures and limited daylight hours. 

Summer wedding (June to Mid-August)

The arctic region experience almost 24 hours of daylight, warmer temperatures, and lush green landscapes. This season is ideal for outdoor ceremonies and exploring nature. Keep in mind that there will be no Northern Lights, and the constant daylight can be challenging for those not accustomed to it.

Autumn wedding (End of August to start of October)

For a quieter, picturesque setting with stunning fall foliage, end of August to October is an excellent choice. The autumn colors are beautiful, and the longer nights offer a chance to see the Northern Lights. It is the perfect season!

4. FIND YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER.
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Availability

Lapland attracts many couples, making top photographers highly sought after. Booking early ensures you secure a talented professional before they become unavailable.

Guidance in Planning

​An experienced local photographer can offer advices on the best times of day and the best locations. If you choose the right photographer, they will also help with the paperworks and so many other moving parts involved. 

Coordination with Other Vendors

Photographers often work closely with other vendors such as wedding planner, florist, and venue. Booking your photographer first can help you tap into their network, making it easier to find experienced vendors.

 

Peace of Mind

Having a trusted and talented photographer booked early provides peace of mind. You can focus on other planning aspects, knowing that you are in capable hands.

5. THE BEST CEREMONY LOCATIONS.

Pyhä-Luosto National Park
This national park offers stunning landscapes with ancient forests, fells, and scenic views. You can exchange vows at the top of a fell with panoramic views or in a serene forest. The rugged beauty and tranquility make it a perfect secluded spot.
 
Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
This park is known for its rolling fells and breathtaking vistas. A ceremony at the top of one of the fells provides a stunning backdrop and adventure. Alternatively, you can choose a peaceful lakeside location or a secluded spot in the ancient taiga forest.

Riisitunturi National Park
Known for its beautiful fell landscapes and wintery spruce trees covered in snow, Riisitunturi offers a magical setting for a winter wedding. The top of Riisitunturi Fell provides panoramic views over the surrounding wilderness.

Sonka
Located in the Rovaniemi area of Finnish Lapland, Sonka is a scenic view point offering the perfect setting for a ceremony. The surrounding wilderness offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The location is also incredibly quiet and 
private.

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6. ACCOMODATION

Explore Accommodation Options

Enjoy modern comforts in cozy hotels and resorts or snuggle up in a charming cabin. Consider staying in a glass igloo. For private rentals, check Airbnb or Booking, from quaint cottages to spacious houses, they are offering great value.

Stay Close to the Action

Find accommodations that are near your ceremony location. This makes it easy for everyone to join without worrying about long travel times.

Recommendations and Read Reviews

Look for places with great reviews to ensure they meet your expectations. Ask for recommendations.

Book Early

Lapland is a popular destination, especially during winter. Secure your dream accommodations by booking well in advance.

Plan Easy Transportation

Ensure there’s convenient transport from the accommodation to your venue. You could arrange shuttle services or hire cars.

Accommodations I love :

  • Rovaniemi : Vaattunki Wilderness Resort - A beautiful resort lodged by the river and trail head.

  • Rovaniemi : Yurt District - For a unique and non-traditional stay.

  • Rovaniemi : Villa Snowest - Located in the middle of the wilderness it is perfect for big groups and even for a ceremony on the lake facing the villa!

  • Ylläs: Aurora Estate – A boutique hotel with a personal touch, ideal for a cozy and intimate stay.

  • Pyhä: Kurula's resort - the perfect wilderness accommodation to slow down and stay near the trails.

  • Saariselkä : Aurora Queen Resort - The most luxurious wilderness stay in Ivalo. 

  • Kuusamo : House of Northern Senses - A homey nordic accommodation right at the gate of the scenic Konttainen hike.

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7. HOW TO GET MARRIED : THE LEGAL DOCUMENTS

Getting married legally in Finland as a foreigner involves several steps and requires specific documentation (I will help). If the idea of going through the paperwork is too daunting, a legal ceremony in your home country and a symbolic ceremony filled with meanings in Finland is also an option.

Documents Required

1. Valid passports.

2. Certificate of No Impediment. You will get this document from your home country.

3. All documents should be in English or Finnish. If they’re not, you may need to have them translated and possibly legalized or apostilled.

Book your ceremony officiant

I will contact the local register office (DVV) in Finland where you plan to marry.

Final Steps

After the ceremony, you will get an official marriage certificate with apostille. This may be necessary for changing your name or updating your marital status in your home country.

Who can get married in Finland?

You do not need to be a resident in Finland to marry there, but you do need to comply with the legal requirements. You will need to be over 18 years old. Same sex marriages are celebrated in Finland.

It’s a good idea to start this process well in advance to ensure that we have all the required documents.

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8. GETTING THERE : THE FLIGHTS

Choose Your Destination Airport

  • Rovaniemi Airport (RVN): The main airport in Lapland, it's the most popular.

  • Kittilä Airport (KTT): Located near Levi, a famous ski resort.

  • Ivalo Airport (IVL): The northernmost airport in Finland, close to Saariselkä.
     

Find Flights

Most international flights to Lapland will have a layover in Helsinki (Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, HEL). You’ll need a connecting flight from Helsinki to your chosen airport. During peak tourist seasons (winter, especially around Christmas), there may be direct charter flights from major cities to Finland airports. Finnair is a great airline, I am always flying with them!
 

Booking

When planning a trip to Finland, timing is crucial. The winter months, from December to March, are the peak season, it's advisable to book well in advance if you are planning a winter wedding. Ensure you have sufficient layover time in Helsinki if you are flying with two different airlines. 

Transportation​

Consider renting a car, check shuttle services from the airport to your accommodation or download one of the local taxi apps (Taksini, Meneva, Uber).

9. FINDING YOUR VENDORS.

Planning a destination wedding can be either DIY or with vendors. Alternatively, hiring vendors like a caterer, private chef, florist, hair and makeup artist, videographer and transportation services can take much of the stress off your shoulders. I will also help coordinate other aspects of the wedding by recommending local vendors and offering logistical support (yep I do it all!). Consider your budget, guest count, and the importance of various elements to decide whether or not to hire vendors.

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10. BOOK ACTIVITIES.

Snowmobiling (December to April)

Explore the stunning landscapes on a snowmobile. You will access incredibly beautiful and secluded locations. This is a must for couples looking for an adrenaline boost!

Ice Climbing (December to March)

For the truly adventurous, ice climbing is a unique challenge. Climb frozen waterfalls under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Skying (December to April)

Explore the serene and snowy trails on a cross-country or downhill skiing adventure.

 

Sauna and (Ice) Swimming (all year round)

Experience the Finnish tradition of alternating between a hot sauna and a dip in an icy lake. This invigorating activity is a must-try.

Fat Biking (all year round)

Ride specially designed fat bikes through the trails. This is a fun and unique way to explore landscapes.

Hiking (all year round)

Whether that's exploring well carved trails or going on a snowshoeing adventure through secretly kept trails, hiking is a must!

SUP Boarding (From June to August)

Go through the beautiful river path and explore remote shores. Paddle boarding is a wonderful summer activity.

ATV (From June to October)

Explore the wilderness with the thrill of driving a 4x4 ATV. Stop along the way to capture the  majestic landscapes.

11. I AM MORE THAN JUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Beyond capturing stunning images, I'll help create meaningful moments,  intimate exchanges, spontaneous adventures, or quiet reflective times. I will help you plan your wedding around the ideal light and suggest picturesque locations that you might not have considered. I understand this isn't just about the photos, but also about the experience is crucial. I also deeply care about connecting with my couples, call me your friend from abroad! 

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YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER, FRIEND & COORDINATOR

Hi! I am Marion, your local wedding photographer. I grew up in France before to fall in love with Lapland and dedicate my life to the beautiful north. I create intimate weddings for adventurous couples, while capturing breathtaking photos that showcase your love amidst the stunning nordic landscapes. Your experience will be uniquely yours and beautifully captured. If you are looking for a meaningful way to get married, Lapland should be at the top of your destination wedding list!

INTIMATE WEDDING PACKAGES

How much does a destination wedding in Lapland cost

Starting at 2.200€

From 4 hours ceremony at sunset, up to multiple days adventuring rural Lapland and celebrating your love.

1. Unlimited planning assistance
2. At least one video call
3. Guiding on the wedding day
4. S
couting location options
5. Finding vendors
6. Elopement pdf guidebook
7. Curated timeline
8. Accommodation suggestions
9. Sneak-peek gallery under a week
10. Full gallery within 30 days

11. Your story artfully captured

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READY TO START DREAMING YOUR WEDDING?

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