Volcano Wedding in Iceland
Getting married in from of an active volcano Fagradalsfjall in Reykjanes, Iceland
Weddings are about more than just the ceremony; they’re about the journey. For Jónsi and Sumarliði, their wedding was a testament to resilience, love, and the power of nature. What began as a wedding postponed by the pandemic soon transformed into something even more extraordinary—an adventure they will never forget, and one that I had the privilege of capturing in a wedding film that is as unique as their love.
The Road to the Wedding
Like so many couples, Jónsi and Sumarliði faced the heartbreak of having to postpone their wedding when COVID-19 shut the world down. Their original plans were put on hold as lockdowns and travel restrictions kept their dream day just out of reach. But as the months passed, they stayed hopeful, knowing that they would one day get to say "I do" in their own time.
Little did we know that the universe had something even more special in store for them—something that would turn their already remarkable wedding into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
An Active Volcano and a Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
When news broke that an active volcano had erupted in Iceland’s Fagradalsfjall region, I knew we were witnessing something extraordinary. The volcanic eruption was not only a rare natural phenomenon but also the perfect backdrop for a wedding that would defy all expectations. Despite the challenges that lay ahead—including unpredictable weather, volcanic gas pollution, and the inherent dangers of the eruption—we saw an opportunity to create something truly unique.
For Jónsi and Sumarliði, this volcanic eruption wasn’t just a spectacle; it symbolized their journey—an obstacle they could face together, turning adversity into something powerful and beautiful. This was their chance to have a wedding unlike any other.
Facing Challenges with Determination
As we made our way toward the eruption site, the weather was far from cooperative. The Icelandic winds howled, and ash clouds filled the sky, making everything feel otherworldly. The air was thick with volcanic gas, and the landscape, though mesmerizing, was incredibly raw and dangerous. But through it all, Jónsi and Sumarliði remained calm, determined to marry in this once-in-a-lifetime setting.
Their love and the strength they showed in the face of so many challenges became the true essence of the day. It wasn’t just about saying "I do" in a stunning location—it was about embracing the unpredictable, facing fears together, and celebrating their union in the most extraordinary of circumstances.
A Wedding in the Shadow of a Volcano
When the moment finally came, we stood in awe of the eruption, the lava flowing in the distance, casting an eerie orange glow over the couple. Against the dramatic backdrop of nature’s power, Jónsi and Sumarliði exchanged vows, their voices steady despite the wind, their eyes locked in a love that could not be shaken by anything—even an erupting volcano.
We were incredibly fortunate that, despite the challenges of the day, the weather calmed just enough for us to capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments. The volcanic ash in the air, the steam rising from the ground, and the molten lava in the distance all added an incredible sense of drama to the film, making their wedding day not just memorable but legendary.
A Wedding Film That Tells a Story
Capturing this wedding wasn’t just about documenting a ceremony—it was about telling a story. A story of love, resilience, and adventure. Jónsi and Sumarliði’s wedding film is a reflection of their spirit, their willingness to embrace the unknown, and the beauty they found in the most unlikely of places. It’s a film that tells the story of two souls who, despite everything, found the perfect moment to say "I do"—with an active volcano as their witness.
Despite all the obstacles we faced that day—from weather challenges to the dangers of volcanic gas pollution—we were incredibly lucky. Luck, yes, but also a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected challenges lead to the most extraordinary outcomes. The eruption may have been unpredictable, but the love between Jónsi and Sumarliði was unwavering—and that was the greatest beauty of all.
A Love as Powerful as Nature
The film I created for Jónsi and Sumarliði is more than just a wedding film. It’s a reminder of the strength and resilience of love, and of the breathtaking, unpredictable beauty that nature provides. Their wedding wasn’t just a celebration of their commitment to each other—it was a celebration of embracing life’s challenges, facing them head-on, and making memories that will last forever.
It’s a film that I’m incredibly proud of, not just because of the stunning location, but because of the story it tells. A story of a couple who made the impossible possible, and a wedding that no one will ever forget.
Credits
Planner: Pink Iceland
Officiant: Árni from Pink Iceland
Photographer: Styrmir & Heiðdís Photography
