A BOUTIQUE ICELAND ELOPEMENT PLANNER & PHOTOGRAPHER FOR TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES
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Iceland Elopement Planner & Photographer

A Boutique Planning & Creative Studio in Reykjavík crafting one-of-one Iceland elopement experiences, proposals, & adventures.

Award-Winning Local Photographer | 20-years of Experience| Video & Film Available

Iceland elopement with local iceland elopement photographer and planner

Your Iceland elopement isn’t just a wedding, it’s an experience that’s creating your very first memories as a married couple.

It’s a bold decision to create a one-of-a-kind experience — a story to be passed down through the generations.

And, it’s woven into a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Iceland that gives you the adventure you’ve always wanted, away from the crowds, feeling so small in such big landscapes.

Imagine landing in Iceland, and instead of stressing about where to go or what to do, you get to just be present. Because someone who's lived here for a decade already designed the experience around who you are.

 
 

It’s not just photography, but designing the Iceland elopement experience that has the feeling, the flow, and fantasy novel whimsy that made you choose Iceland in the first place.

Most couples come to Iceland for 7-10 days, and get married in between, but they’re also having a seriously special adventure. I design Iceland Elopement experiences that look at you holistically, not just the few hours that your elopement is within your entire time in Iceland so you don’t have to spend weeks of your life Googling for answers and hoping it’s accurate when you arrive.

Instead, you can relax and have a partner in this whole dang thing so you can focus on celebrating with your love on a insanely beautiful adventure.

 
GET STARTED
 
 
 
 
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''It felt like [Steph] knew us our whole life and picked the absolute perfect locations for our photos.''



''Steph was an amazing photographer! It felt like she knew us our whole life and picked the absolute perfect locations for our photos. She made us feel like we were at home, on the biggest day of our lives, in a foreign country.''
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

- Teravey & Micheal
see more real testimonials
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Iceland’s Only Boutique Planning & Creative Studio

Hand-crafted Iceland Experience design, planning, and coordination with creative photography, film, and video with a personal touch.

 

You can think of me like your Iceland matchmaker specializing in designing unrepeatable Iceland elopement experiences.

When you're thousands of miles away from home, the last thing you want is to feel uncertain about how to make what you want to happen on your elopement, happen. Or to feel like a fish out of water on one of the most important days of your lives.

Your elopement isn’t separate from your Iceland trip, it’s at the very heart of it. Your elopement is the centrepiece of the entire experience.

  • Where you stay so you wake up to the view of the vast mountains.

  • What you do the day after so you can keep the celebration going.

  • How your elopement day is structured: locations curated for how they'll make you feel, timeline built around light and weather, every detail intentional. What you experience after as newlyweds exploring Iceland together.

 
private iceland elopement in the wind with bride laughing by iceland elopement planner Steph zakas

With the experience & expertise of a decade specializing in Iceland Elopements,

By the time you leave Iceland, you won't just have incredible photos. You'll have lived something that felt exactly how you wanted it to from exploring those secluded areas and swimming in a geothermal spring.

And your elopement day was sewn in perfectly to that experience.

 
Collection details
 
Iceland elopement in secluded geothermal location by Iceland elopement planner Steph Zakas

''Steph was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! She made it incredibly easy to plan a wedding 3,000 miles away.
She was super responsive to any and all questions… On our wedding adventure photos she was so much fun to be with, we had a blast…
She’s an excellent tour guide and even better photographer, she is amazing and I would recommend her to anyone and everyone! I couldn’t imagine anyone more perfect for the job than her to capture these beautiful memories for us!''
- Amanda & Jordan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
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Góðan daginn, I’m Steph!
My clients tend to call me their Iceland Elopement Yoda.

Steph Zakas Iceland elopement photographer at a volcano photo

(that’s me in front of an erupting volcano — one of the coolest days of my life.)

 

I'm Steph Zakas (she/her), the elf-like creature behind the scenes & lens.

I’m a film degree grad turned Iceland obsessive who's been calling this otherworldly country home for about a decade. I'm the metalhead who roller skates, speaks decent Icelandic (see: for a toddler), is obsessed with finding & hiking secluded hidden gems far away from people, and tries to befriend all of the Icelandic ravens (work in progress).

My background is as expansive as Iceland’s volcanic deserts from:

  • coordinating productions for HBO, Rolling Stone, and Vogue

  • to being a professional photographer for 20 years working with the likes of Disney, Nike, New York Fashion Week,

  • having the honor of helping over 1,000 happy couples with their weddings, elopements, proposals, and sessions.

  • and, being an Iceland elopement bride myself to my Icelandic husband — who planned my own Off-Road Highland Elopement adventure.

My experience has taught me that flawless execution looks effortless. I've spent over a decade learning Iceland's hidden gems, weather patterns, logistics, and terrain while getting as far away from the crowds as possible so now you can reap the benefit.

 
Steph zakas iceland elopement photographer
 
MORE ABOUT STEPH
 

As Seen In:

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‘‘Steph Zakas is not only an incredible photographer, but she is an excellent source for all things Iceland and your adventure elopement.

My husband and I cannot thank Steph enough for curating our special day and making it feel effortless and fun. I highly recommend you talk to her if you're considering eloping in Iceland. Just look at the pictures this woman can take; how can you not be convinced?’’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

- Kristel & Johnny

ELOPEMENT PREP HUB
 
 
 
 
 

 

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Your Next Steps
for your epic Iceland elopement

 
private Iceland elopement on top of a mountain with wind blown dress.

01.

Inquire About Your Date Availability

REACH OUT.

We’ll talk about your vision. What you're imagining. What matters to you. How you want to feel.

a queer Iceland elopement with sheep in the background

02.

Book The Experience You Love

MATCHED TO YOU

Maybe you're planning your own trip and just need your elopement day designed. Maybe you want the full collaboration of your elopement and your entire Iceland journey designed together. Maybe you want to go deep into Iceland's most remote places. I'll help you figure out what fits.

private Iceland elopement with the couple laughing during their vows and bride in black wedding dress.

03.

Adventure Away From The Crowds

SECLUDED & PRIVATE

Every elopement and Iceland trip experience designed is always rooted in the core value of privacy, seclusion, and sustainable tourism. You’ll have an elopement day away from the crowds and the always busy hotspots.

 
get started
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''Where do we begin?! 10/10 would recommend booking with Steph''



''After our initial phone call with Steph all we knew is that we were getting married in Iceland and we were having Steph (of Zakas Photography) as our photographer and no one else — Steph guided us through the whole process little by little step by step. 10/10 would recommend booking with Steph… 💕''
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

- Skyla & Braxton
CONTACT TO START
 
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DESIGNED ICELAND PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE OFFERS

YOUR LOCAL PARTNER IN ICELAND

Three ways to work together.

 
private iceland elopement in the highland with local iceland elopement photographer and planner

Designed Iceland Elopement Experiences

I design your entire Iceland elopement experience, from location matchmaking and vendor coordination to marriage paperwork — so you can focus on each other.

see elopement packages
queer private iceland elopement at a waterfall with local iceland elopement photographer and planner

Private Vow Renewals & Couple’s Sessions

Celebrate your love with intimate photography sessions that capture your connection in Iceland's otherworldly landscapes.

see couple's adventure packages
couple getting engaged in iceland with a secret marriage proposal

Secret Iceland Marriage Proposals

Plan your epic Iceland proposal with complete discretion. I'll coordinate the perfect location and capture every moment without giving away the secret,

see proposal packages
 
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''All her reviews were amazing, who was this amazing mythical being and was she even a real person?''



''I remember when we first decided to go with Steph thinking all her reviews were amazing, who was this amazing mythical being and was she even a real person?

She kept track of the weather and road conditions all day and as a result we dodged a blizzard!! ...We seen so much of Iceland on that one day! We went to so many different types of location...

Her expertise went beyond the "big day" as she gave us great advice for the rest of our trip aswell and from the very first consultation her inbox was always at the ready and she responded super quick... The photos turned out amazing and really we could not recommend Steph enough.''
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

- Pauline & Andrew
 
see more testimonials
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Featured Real Iceland Elopement Experiences

 
Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Iceland Highlands Elopement with Private 4x4 Truck Tour

Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Highland Elopement with Private 4x4 Truck

Read More ->

Iceland Blue Ice Glacier Elopement with couple saying vows in Ice Cave

Iceland Private Blue Ice Glacier Elopement with 4x4

Read More ->

A Winter Reykjavík city hall elopement wedding in black and white with couple in downtown Reykjavík by Iceland wedding planner Steph Zakas

A Private Winter Reykjavík City Hall Elopement

Read More ->

Beautiful Queer Iceland Elopement at Private Waterfall

Read More ->

MORE REAL ICELAND ADVENTURES

 
 
CLICK TO SEE
A Winter Reykjavík City Hall Elopement
A Winter Reykjavík City Hall Elopement
A Private Highland Iceland Elopement in a Private 4x4 Mountain Truck
A Private Highland Iceland Elopement in a Private 4x4 Mountain Truck
A Private South West Iceland Elopement at Sunset
A Private South West Iceland Elopement at Sunset
A West Iceland Waterfalls Elopement in Late Summer with Nontraditional Black Wedding Dress
A West Iceland Waterfalls Elopement in Late Summer with Nontraditional Black Wedding Dress
An Autumn Iceland Couple's Storybook Adventure Session in Volcanic Landscapes
An Autumn Iceland Couple's Storybook Adventure Session in Volcanic Landscapes
An LGBTQIA+ Iceland Honeymoon Photography Session Close to The Golden Circle
An LGBTQIA+ Iceland Honeymoon Photography Session Close to The Golden Circle
Iceland Blue Ice Glacier Cave Private Elopement in South Iceland with 4x4
Iceland Blue Ice Glacier Cave Private Elopement in South Iceland with 4x4
Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Iceland Highlands Elopement with Private 4x4 Truck Tour
Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Iceland Highlands Elopement with Private 4x4 Truck Tour
Private & Secret Iceland Proposal at Sunrise on a Volcanic Lake
Private & Secret Iceland Proposal at Sunrise on a Volcanic Lake
Private Summer Iceland Elopement in Snæfellsnes with Picnic
Private Summer Iceland Elopement in Snæfellsnes with Picnic
Unconventional Private Iceland Elopement with Cowboy Hats and A Black Floral Dress | Local Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner
Unconventional Private Iceland Elopement with Cowboy Hats and A Black Floral Dress | Local Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner
Iceland Proposal at Private Game Of Thrones Waterfall (With a Jon Snow Sighting!) | Local Iceland Engagement Photographer
Iceland Proposal at Private Game Of Thrones Waterfall (With a Jon Snow Sighting!) | Local Iceland Engagement Photographer
Best Iceland Proposal Adventures | Iceland Elopement Photographer
Best Iceland Proposal Adventures | Iceland Elopement Photographer
Iceland Elopement Style Guide for Grooms & Masc Presenting for Adventure Weddings | Local Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner
Iceland Elopement Style Guide for Grooms & Masc Presenting for Adventure Weddings | Local Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner
An Unconventional Gothic Iceland Elopement with a Black Wedding Dress at a Black Beach
An Unconventional Gothic Iceland Elopement with a Black Wedding Dress at a Black Beach
Rainy Summer Day Iceland Engagement Photography Adventure at Waterfall and Lupines
Rainy Summer Day Iceland Engagement Photography Adventure at Waterfall and Lupines
Iceland Proposal At A Private Waterfall | Local Iceland Engagement Photographer & Planner
Iceland Proposal At A Private Waterfall | Local Iceland Engagement Photographer & Planner
How to Hire a Local Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner (plus, how my process works)
How to Hire a Local Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner (plus, how my process works)
A Local’s POV: How to Elope in Iceland-- The Only Guide You'll Need [2025/2026] — Elopement Locations, Iceland Weather, Best Time of Year, Elopement Packages, & More
A Local’s POV: How to Elope in Iceland-- The Only Guide You'll Need [2025/2026] — Elopement Locations, Iceland Weather, Best Time of Year, Elopement Packages, & More
Is Hiring a Local Iceland Elopement and Proposal Photographer & Planner Worth It? (And what to avoid)
Is Hiring a Local Iceland Elopement and Proposal Photographer & Planner Worth It? (And what to avoid)
3 Steps to Planning a Stress-Free, Low Key Iceland Elopement | Local Iceland Elopement Photographer and Planner
3 Steps to Planning a Stress-Free, Low Key Iceland Elopement | Local Iceland Elopement Photographer and Planner
Get Engaged: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Surprise Iceland Marriage Proposal Engagement [2025/2026]
Get Engaged: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Surprise Iceland Marriage Proposal Engagement [2025/2026]
Two-Day Magical and Private Iceland Elopement with Waterfalls, Fjords, and Picnic | Iceland Elopement Photographer and Specialist
Two-Day Magical and Private Iceland Elopement with Waterfalls, Fjords, and Picnic | Iceland Elopement Photographer and Specialist
Iceland Elopement Survival Guide That's Beyond The Ultimate Guide
Iceland Elopement Survival Guide That's Beyond The Ultimate Guide
Top 3 Benefits of Working with a Local Iceland Elopement Planner & Photographer
Top 3 Benefits of Working with a Local Iceland Elopement Planner & Photographer
Reykjavik Ceremony and Snæfellsnes Iceland Elopement | Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner
Reykjavik Ceremony and Snæfellsnes Iceland Elopement | Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner
Snæfellsnes and Reykjanes Iceland Two Day Elopement | Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner
Snæfellsnes and Reykjanes Iceland Two Day Elopement | Iceland Elopement Photographer & Planner
Why Iceland is The Best Place to Elope | Iceland Elopement Photographer, Planner, and Expert
Why Iceland is The Best Place to Elope | Iceland Elopement Photographer, Planner, and Expert
Best Places in Iceland for Your Elopement and Honeymoon | Local Iceland Expert and Elopement Specialist
Best Places in Iceland for Your Elopement and Honeymoon | Local Iceland Expert and Elopement Specialist
Best Elopement Hikes in Iceland
Best Elopement Hikes in Iceland
iceland prep hub
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The Iceland Elopement Alchemy™ Design Process

How I design your Iceland elopement experience.

 
 
secluded iceland elopement by iceland elopement planner Steph zakas

01.
MY LITTLE BLACK BOOK of ICELAND™

1,000+ locations I've personally scouted and loved. After a decade here, I've built a library in my mind catalogued to fit the vibe, season, and experience you want with an emphasis on being away from the crowds in secluded, breathtaking areas.

Reykjavík City Hall elopement

02.
AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN

Your personal creative director. Your story deserves more than the cliché photos at the most crowded landmarks. As an award-winning photographer, I document authentic moments and create visual narratives that always feel like you. I never miss a butt squeeze, a tiny glance, or the big belly laughs.

sunrise iceland elopement

03.
WHERE LOGISTICS & ART MEET

Your day designed all together with stunning images to match. With 20 years behind the camera and production experience for HBO, NBC, Rolling Stone, Vogue, and Vanity Fair, I bring flawless execution to your most important day by orchestrating timelines, curating locations, weather contingencies, and vendor coordination while bringing my expertise to your entire Iceland trip.

 
see real iceland elopements
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Featured Iceland Elopement & Adventure Prep Articles

Iceland elopement in secluded area with couple popping champagne by Iceland elopement planner Steph zakas

A Local’s POV: How to Elope in Iceland- The Ultimate Guide

In this Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Iceland, you will learn all you need to know to get started on how to plan your Iceland elopement from an actual Iceland local and elopement expert. This guide has it all.

Click
iceland elopement with a horse and bride in black wedding dress by iceland elopement planner steph zakas

3 Steps to Planning a Stress-Free, Low Key Iceland Elopement

Getting ready to elope in Iceland can be both exciting and overwhelming. As someone who’s been in the wedding and elopement industry for decades, I’ve seen all sides of wedding planning- planning.

click
queer iceland elopement in front of waterfall by iceland elopement planner steph zakas

An 8-Step Iceland Elopement Guide

Coming to Iceland to Elope is magical, but what are the steps to making it happen?

And, answering the most commonly asked questions for you.

This has you covered.

click
iceland elopement at kirkjufell by iceland elopement planner steph zakas

Iceland Elopement Survival Guide

It amazes me how my life and business have changed since I’ve been living in Iceland as an Iceland Elopement Photographer and Planner. But in the last couple years, I’ve seen more and more of my couples steer clear of traditional weddings.

click

Featured Iceland Adventure Experiences
Elopements, Proposals, and More

 
''You have ended up here reading about Steph which means your search has ended— hoorah!''



‘‘Whoever you are, and whatever you’re doing, just stop. You have ended up here reading about Steph which means your search has ended - hoorah! I can promise you that she is exactly what you want and honestly, she is exactly what you need. Steph is passionate about love and it shows; not only in her indescribable pictures but even in the way she interacts with you. It is so evident that her motivation is to make your day exactly what you want it be…and then go beyond that to exceed your wildest expectations!’’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

- Alexandria & Luke
more testimonials
 
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 I believe your elopement should be a hand-crafted, badass experience.

How I help you as an
Iceland Elopement Planner, Photographer, & Visual Storyteller

 
 
Iceland elopement experience

Note ready to book your elopement yet? See my Elopement planning resources

 
 
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iceland elopement coupe in a cave with cool light

01.

From the Beginning to End

We’re together from the start, designing all of the pieces for your Iceland elopement day and trip to Iceland such as vendors and a vault of resources & guides.

By the time your day comes we won’t be strangers and you’ll feel at ease.

02.

Curated Secluded Elopement Locations

Every couple is paired with locations hand-picked for them. You can think of me as a location match maker.

Your locations will be personalized through my simple process aligning your dream adventure to your personal vibe.

a private secluded Iceland Elopement on a valley cliff
elopement in iceland under a secret waterfall

03.

Elopement Logistics & Coordination

Seriously, you can sit back because you’ll have weather backup plans, a timeline for privacy, and all logistics ironed out maximizing your Iceland adventure. All you need to do is don’t forget to bring your hiking boots.

04.

True-To-You Elopement Photos

And of course, only the most epic photos of you two being yourselves, instead of posing you awkwardly all day long.

In fact, I don’t even pose you and have a completely different approach to capturing the best ‘you’ photos.

Don’t worry, no previous modeling experience required.

Best Iceland elopement photographer capturing the bride caught in Iceland wind
iceland elopement survival guide
 
 

YOUR NEXT STEPS

01.
Inquire for availability.

02.
Get matched with the experience that’s right for you.

03.
Book your experience and the experience design gets started.

inquire here
 
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Let’s get started on your Iceland Elopement
or Adventure Photography Experience.

let's do this
 
 
 
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Favorite Iceland Elopement Resources

Iceland Elopements & Couple’s Sessions to Inspire

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