HOW TO PLAN A WEDDING
IN FINLAND
The ultimate guide to getting married in the North
Finland is the land of ancient forests, serene lakes and untouched wilderness, creating the perfect atmosphere for an intimate wedding.
Considering to have
YOUR WEDDING IN FINLAND?
Imagine exchanging vows in a quiet forest, surrounded by the ethereal glow of the snow. Getting married in Finland offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, unique experiences, and romantic settings that make it an unforgettable destination for an intimate wedding.
I'm Marion, a passionate local photographer with a deep love for the Arctic. With years of experience capturing weddings, I bring both creativity and seasoned expertise to help you plan the perfect wedding in Finland. Beyond just taking beautiful photos, I'm here to guide you every step of the way, making sure your special day is extraordinary.
PLANNING YOUR WEDDING
One step at a time
1. ENVISION YOUR WEDDING DAY(S).
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 yourself, "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.
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 Finland (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?
Choosing whether to have guests at your destination wedding is a significant decision that can shape the entire experience.
1. Intimacy
Consider how you envision your wedding day. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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, more manageable guest list or no guest at all might be more appealing.
4. 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.
3.WHEN TO GET MARRIED IN FINLAND?
Getting married in north Finland can be a magical experience, and the best time of year depends on the type of wedding you envision.
Winter wedding (December to March)
During these months, Lapland 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.
Booking a photographer first thing when planning your wedding abroad is crucial, a skilled photographer (Hi!) can ensure that every moment is immortalised beautifully but also that your experience is a lot more than just posing for the camera.
Availability
Finland 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. This can help you plan your ceremony and other activities. 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. FIND A CEREMONY LOCATION.
Lapland's untouched wilderness offers some of the best ceremony locations in Europe, setting the perfect atmosphere for your commitment to each other. Your photographer will advise you on the best locations according to light and accessibility.
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.
Kuninkaanlaavu
Located in the Rovaniemi area of Finnish Lapland, is a scenic wilderness hut that offering the perfect setting for a ceremony. The surrounding wilderness offers a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. With its beautiful views, Kuningaslaavu promises a unique and memorable experience for your special day.
6. ACCOMODATION
Finding the perfect accommodation is an important part of making your day unforgettable. It will also set the mood for your getting ready photos and festivities after the ceremony.
1. Explore Accommodation Options
Enjoy modern comforts in cozy hotels and resorts or snuggle up in a charming cabin. Consider staying in a glass igloo, sleep in a reindeer farm or in an ice hotel. For private rentals, check Airbnb or Booking for homey options, from quaint cottages to spacious houses, they are offering great value.
2. Stay Close to the Action
Find accommodations that are near your ceremony location. This makes it easy for everyone to join in the fun without worrying about long travel times.
3. Recommendations and Read Reviews
Look for places with great reviews to ensure they meet your expectations. Ask your photographer for their recommendations.
4. Book Early
Lapland is a popular destination, especially during winter. Secure your dream accommodations by booking well in advance.
5. Plan Easy Transportation
Ensure there’s convenient transport from the accommodation to your venue. You could arrange shuttle services, hire cars, or even plan a fun sleigh ride!
Accommodations I love :
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Rovaniemi : Vaattunki Wilderness Resort - A beautiful resort lodged by the river and trail head.
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Rovaniemi : Yurt District - For a unique and non-traditional stay.
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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!
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Ylläs: Aurora Estate – A boutique hotel with a personal touch, ideal for a cozy and intimate stay.
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Pyhä: Kurula's resort - the perfect wilderness accommodation to slow down and stay near the trails.
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 you with this step). 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. Both parties need valid passports.
2. Certificate of No Impediment : You need a document proving that you are single and legally free to marry. 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
Contact the local register office (DVV) in Finland where you plan to marry. They will guide you through the specific requirements and process. You’ll need to submit the necessary documents to the register office. They will process your application and may ask for additional information.
Final Steps
After the marriage, make sure to 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 you have all the required documents and can address any issues that might arise.
8. GETTING THERE : THE FLIGHTS
Choose Your Destination Airport
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Rovaniemi Airport (RVN): The main airport in Lapland, it's the most popular.
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Kittilä Airport (KTT): Located near Levi, a famous ski resort.
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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. FIND YOUR VENDORS.
Planning a destination wedding can be either involve DIY or hiring vendors. Alternatively, hiring vendors like a local wedding planner for decor, 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.
10. BOOK ACTIVITIES.
Although reindeer and husky rides are the most popular activities, there are many others offering a magical and adventurous experience for couples getting married.
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. LET'S PLAN YOUR WEDDING TOGETHER!
Beyond capturing stunning images, your photographer can help create meaningful moments, including intimate exchanges, spontaneous adventures, or quiet reflective times. Most experienced photographers will help you plan your day(s) around the ideal light. and suggest picturesque locations that you might not have considered.
While photographers can certainly enhance your day(s) by ensuring perfect lighting and locations, the true essence lies in the personal experience. Emphasizing meaningful moments and enjoying the adventure will make your experience truly special. Choosing a photographer understanding this isn't just about the photos, but also about the experience is crucial.
YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN FINLAND
Hi! I am Marion. I grew up in France before to fall in love with Finland and dedicate my life to the beautiful north. I create authentic experiences 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, Finland should be at the top of your destination wedding list!
