The ultimate guide to elope in Sweden
TIPS. VENUES & LOCATION IDEAS
for an adventure elopement in Sweden
Sweden, a nordic country in eastern Europe, houses thousands of coastal islands and inlandlakes, as well as lush green forests and snow capped mountains. The landscape of Sweden is diverse and awe inspiring, from the mountains up north to the temperate beaches in the south. In the winter, you can even spot the aurora borealis! If you’re planning to elope in Sweden, this guide will tell you everything you need to know! And if you still need a little convincing, I bet this guide will make your decision a little easier.
Let’s dive in…
Welcome to the Adventure of a Lifetime
Hey there, I’m Amber! I’m your elopement photographer and planner – your one-stop-shop for absolutely everything you need for a magical, incredible elopement day.
I offer all-inclusive elopement packages for couples who want to relax and let me handle absolutely everything, as well as options for couples who like a little bit of DIY! I’ll find the perfect place for you to exchange vows, recommend vendors, help you figure out travel and lodging, make a timeline, and more – personalizing each part of your elopement day to perfectly suit the two of you. And of course, I’ll be there to take the photos and document this once in a lifetime adventure.
You aren’t like every other couple, and your wedding day shouldn’t be either! I’ll help you craft a day that’s true to you, authentic, and real, allowing you to immerse yourselves in the experience as you say your “I dos.”
First, let’s be sure we’re talking about the same thing:
What is an elopement?
An elopement isn’t what it used to be – but some people are still working with an outdated definition. Tell your family you want to elope and there might be some pearl clutching as they envision you running off to Vegas. Today, an elopement is so much more than a quick ceremony or a scandalous, last minute decision. Eloping is about making sure that you get a say in what your wedding day looks like. You get to decide how you start off your marriage, and you get to let go of the pressure, traditions, and expectations that come with the big wedding industry.
How to Legally Elope in Sweden
Lucky for you, Sweden is one of the easiest countries in Europe to get married in! First, you’ll need a certificate of no impediment – this is a written document stating you’ve never been married, and in the US, it can be obtained at the courthouse. You’ll also need copies of your passports and birth certificates, and a government issued ID.
When you arrive in Sweden, you’ll go to Skatteverket, the Swedish Tax Agency. They will process your paperwork and give you a marriage license, and you can elope in Sweden!
For couples from the US:
In certain states, you can ask your county clerk the authorization to sign your wedding license abroad. If they agree, as a registered minister, my team and I will be able to legally marry you without the hassle of a legal wedding ceremony in Sweden.
Why Elope in Sweden?
Gorgeous Landscapes
The scenery in Sweden is jaw dropping. Mountains, forests, lakes, wildlife, and more make this place one of incredible natural beauty. Elope in Sweden in the winter and you may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Delicious Cuisine
Sweden’s favorite dessert is the cinnamon bun – stop by any bakery in the country and you’re bound to find them freshly baked! The country also boasts another dessert, Smörgåstårta, which translates to sandwich cake. And don’t forget the Swedish meatballs!
Cultural Treasures
From storybook-like castles to medieval architecture and unique festival celebrations, Sweden is a country with a rich cultural history. There are hundreds of castles to explore, and you can step back in time and learn about the nation’s past.
Where to Elope in Sweden
You could explore Sweden’s nature forever, and you’d see the most amazing landscapes, filled with moose, reindeer, and even wolves! Here are a few amazing places to elope in Sweden to get you inspired.
Kungsleden
This hike is for couples who want a little extra adventure! It’s 400km, or 250 miles (though you don’t have to hike the whole thing), and features alpine scenery that ascends to mountaintops and descends down into the forest. The trail passes through 4 national parks, and there are hostels set up along the way!
Jukkäsjarvi
Jukkäsjarvi is a town in Sweden, but its main attraction is the Ice Hotel. Just imagine staying in a hotel made of ice during your elopement! It’s definitely a once in a lifetime experience that you’re un;ikely to have anywhere else.
Abisko National Park
Abisko National Park features an idyllic valley framed by mountains. In the summer, the valley erupts in wildflowers, and in the winter, the park is an ideal place to witness the aurora borealis! There are long mountain trails or easy walking paths to choose from, so you’ll find the perfect spot for your elopement here.
Tiveden National Park
This national park is covered in forests, growing amongst the stone borders and river carved valleys. With countless hiking trails and overlooks, this park would make an incredible backdrop for any elopement!
Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve
Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, at this nature reserve you’ll get the chance to spot reindeer, arctic foxes, and falcons. It’s the biggest nature reserve in the country, and the mountain landscape and glacial peaks are home to so many of Sweden’s animals.
When to Elope in Sweden
Sweden has a variety of landscapes, so weather can vary a ton! Before you decide on an elopement date, learn a little bit about the country’s climate.
WINTER
Winters in Sweden are cold, and very dark. One great reason to elope in the winter is that you might get to see the northern lights! In exchange, however, you’ll have to deal with nearly 24 hour darkness.
SPRING
Wildflowers bloom in the spring, and the earth seems to come back to life after the cold, dark winter. If you’re hoping to hike in the mountains, spring might still be too snowy! But, it’s the perfect time to explore the cities and lower elevation landscapes before tourist season begins.
SUMMER
Summer Is the busiest season in Sweden, because as the weather gets warmer, all the local attractions open up and the snow melts from the mountain tops! It rarely gets too hot in Sweden, so even if you elope in the summer, make sure to bring a jacket!
FALL
The leaves change colors in early fall, and it’s a great time to explore Sweden after the summer crowds have left. In September, temperatures are still moderate and Sweden’s landscapes haven’t yet been dusted with snow.
How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Sweden?
All-inclusive, 7-day ELOPEMENT and honeymoon
6 nights in accommodation (3* or more)
Elopement photographer for 3 days
All meals for the 7 days
4-5 beautiful, natural and raw ceremony location options
Custom timeline of the day
Officiant
Florist
Hair and makeup
Car rental
Airport transfers
TOTAL FOR An all-inclusive ELOPEMENT IN SWEDEN:
$26 300
12-hour ELOPEMENT
Elopement photographer for 12 hours
4-5 beautiful, natural and raw ceremony location options
Custom timeline of the day
TOTAL FOR A 12-hour ELOPEMENT IN SWEDEN:
$9 200
What To Wear When Eloping In Sweden
When it comes to eloping, you’ll need to think about how much adventuring you’ll be doing. Make sure your attire lets you sit down, walk around, and move freely! If you’re uncomfortable all day, your photos will show it, and your experience will be dampened by the discomfort – so break in your attire and your shows beforehand!
The Dress
Sweden can get cold, even in the summer. Make sure to layer with thermal leggings underneath, and a cape or shawl can keep you warm (and stylish) on your elopement day. Choose a dress with a loose skirt that will let you move around freely. Heavier fabrics like velvet and silk are great for keeping warm as well, but lighter fabrics like tulle and chiffon are often easier to move around in.
The Shoes
No high heels for your elopement! The shoes should be comfortable and broken in so that you can walk around all day without blisters! Hiking boots are perfect for an elopement, and there’s something so cool about pairing boots with wedding attire.
The Suit
A three piece suit is perfect for eloping in Sweden. While you’re hiking or moving around, you can take off the jacket if it’s too warm, and throw it on when you get cold! Make sure your suit fits well and is comfortable to move around in, so that you’re ready for whatever adventure your elopement day has in store.
Elope in Sweden – Your Checklist
Think about where you’d like to go
As an elopement photographer, a big part of my job is to help couples find the perfect place to say their vows. As a travel planner, I’m ready to go with all the best secret spots! Once you’ve decided to elope in Germany, don’t hesitate to get in touch for planning assistance.
Pick a date
Decide what you want to do during your elopement, and what kind of weather you want! Then, choose a date to tie the knot.
Find more information about travel visas and wedding documentation
No visas required to elope in Sweden, so just make sure your passport is up to date and you’re ready to go!
Book your flights and accommodation
Whether you want to stay in a quaint Airbnb or a luxury resort, I recommend shopping for flights and accommodation early! Especially in the summer, they book up fast!
Book your vendors
Vendors often fill their calendars way in advance – so don’t be afraid to reach out early! Your elopement vendors will take so much pressure off of you when it comes to planning your big day, and they’ll be able to guide you through the whole process.
Live your dream elopement
Time to explore Sweden and get married!
DOES SWEDEN SOUND LIKE YOUR DREAM?
How to plan your peaceful elopement in SWEDEN with me
Let’s dive in, so you can start your journey right away!
Imagine a wedding where you can be you. Breathe. Bask in each other’s love.
Experience a place close to your hearts, or a bucket-list dream.
Let’s chat!
Are you eager to start planning your elopement in Sweden? I’m here to help you envision, plan and immortalize this beautiful adventure! Contact me now for a free consultation!
