Finland Destinations

Getting married in snow and ice - rise of winter weddings in Finland

1 min read

Jan 26, 2024 2:05:55 PM

#NordicNews on destinations and Finland

Lapland's winter weddings capture hearts and wallets

For some lovebirds in Finnish Lapland, cost is no obstacle for a romantic getaway. Lapland is becoming increasingly popular as a wedding destination.

Rue Niemi, a Finnish-British wedding coordinator near Levi, told Yle that the demand for her services has been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2022, according to the official Finnish population register, 73 foreign couples exchanged vows in Finland. The Digital and Population Data Services Agency stated that this number was surpassed last year, but the exact figure is still being determined.

The majority of international weddings take place in the town of Kittilä in Finnish Lapland. Niemi, who has organized over 700 weddings in the last 15 years, mentioned a growth rate of 30% in the last five years. Interestingly, most of her clients are British, with some already booked until 2026.

In addition to weddings, proposals are also on the rise in Lapland's romantic holiday sector. Money seems to be no object, especially among Asian "proposal" tourists. These proposals can range from elaborate events with expensive elements like red rose petals to popping the question during a husky or reindeer safari. Some even opt for unique settings, such as hiding the ring in an ice cube. Social media plays a significant role in spreading these trends, as people are inspired by fairytale-like images.

Simple or luxurious

Lapland's winter wedding packages start at around 1000 euros and include necessary documents, a simple ceremony, a registrar, decorations, and beverages. For those willing to invest, there is no limit, and the cost of a wedding, including travel, can reach up to 100,000 euros, according to event planners interviewed by YLE.

The allure of a Lapland wedding isn't just about romance; it's also seen as a more affordable alternative to traditional weddings. Michael Ballinger, who recently married in Levi, compared the costs and found that organizing a wedding in his home country is much more expensive than their Lapland trip.