Sometimes you got to trust the process and lean into the moment wholeheartedly. Chelsea and Phil´s magical autumn elopement in Lofoten ended up on the first autumn storm of the season.
The Lofoten Islands are a magical destination all year round – situated in the archipelago off the coast of northern Norway. it has breathtaking scenery, with dramatic peaks, valleys and jaw dropping landscapes worthy of adventuring. This destination is perfect for any couple who wants to elope in a private and wild destination, and this post will let you be a part of a magical autumn elopement in the Lofoten Islands.
Storms of emotions both inside and out
Two years in the making, Chelsea and Phil came all the way from Australia to say their I do´s in the beautiful Lofoten Islands. Little did they know they hit land right about the same time as the first storm of the season. Being flexible is part of what makes an elopement unique and being willing to embrace whats handed to you is what makes it all come together.
I always set aside buffer days surrounding the big day, knowing how the weather in Norway works. Staying at Hattvika Lodge though, I knew they would be well taken care of for their Lofoten adventure. The cabin they had booked gave them the perfect backdrop for the wedding, not having to stress about the weather in any way. A fisherman´s cabin with a living room set with a dome, gave the perfect vibe for their intimate ceremony. Seing the ocean spray hitting the window while the howling winds were passing by, gave the perfect disguise for quiet tears running down their faces.
FIRST LOOK
I know it might sound simple or insignificant, but doing a first look with your loved one is everything. This is your first chance to release the excitement that has build up during the course of the planning. Whether you have kept everything a secret or you just need that reassuring touch, it´s one of the things I recommend everyone do. Not to mention being able to witness it front row seats with my camera.
CEREMONY
In the witness of the celebrant and yours truly, Chelsea and Phil shared their innermost thoughts before tying the knot. I love it when couples have written their own vows to each other. It makes the ceremony that much more special, and it gives you the opportunity to share what you might not be the best at showing in your everyday life. A trembling voice, having to start over more than once. Tears running down the face, bares witness to the emotions that filled the room on this stormy autumn day.
EMBRACING THE UNKNOWN
99% of the time I love to embrace the elements. For one because it rarely rains continuously, and second of all, embracing the unknown makes the adventure more authentic. I mean, who doesn´t love the wildness that is Norway. But, on this rare occasion the weather was not working for us. The charm of looking like a drowned cat after 2 minutes of being outside is only beneficial in summertime. Not mid autumn during a storm. Lucky for us, Hattvika Lodge has an amazing restaurant right next door to the cabin. It has a modern contemporary interior, perfect for an intimate portrait session before their celebratory dinner. Going from white to black, Chelsea and Phil embraced every minute of it!
AUTUMN IN LOFOTEN – THERE REALLY IS NOTHING LIKE IT
I can´t emphasize enough the importance of flexibility. Norway is one of the most stunning places I know, but it also has one of the more unpredictable weathers, much like Iceland. Therefore, the importance of seing opportunities instead of failure is key to get the most out of your adventure. To quote the happy couple “if we wanted sunny warm beaches we would have staying in Australia. This is as authentic as it gets.” And don´t get me started on how epic it looks…
FOUR SEASONS IN A DAY
Day two of their amazing adventure was spent exploring the epic scenery of what the Lofoten Islands has to offer. Facing rain and winds was no challenge, but I have to say, getting whipped by hail as we were running for shelter. I´ve never laughed so much in my life!
THANK YOU Chelsea and Phil for memories that will stay with me for a lifetime. The tears of laughter and joy, screams of excitement and the pure happiness of knowing you will return one day makes me forever grateful!
VENDORS
Accommodations & restaurant: www.hattvikalodge.no
Flowers: Berre & Torg – www.berretorg.no
Photographer: www.christineide.com
Celebrant: www.human.no
