Posts in Travel
A Dreamy Honeymoon Session in Iceland with Jesse and Dan
 

Iceland Elopement and Honeymoon Photography

I’m sharing Jesse and Dan’s amazing honeymoon session at Iceland’s Viking Village by Vestrahorn Mountain. Between the mirror-like lake, moody mountain views, and a touch of adventure, these photos capture the magic of Iceland for couples who want something unforgettable.

Every so often, I’m blessed to photograph couples who feel like they’re part of a story written by nature itself. Such was the case with Jesse and Dan, whose honeymoon session in Iceland was truly a testament to their adventurous spirits and deep connection. Iceland’s sweeping landscapes, rugged mountains, and ethereal reflections were the perfect backdrop to capture their love, and I couldn’t have imagined a more beautiful location to celebrate the beginning of their married life together.

Jesse and Dan chose the stunning Viking Village at the base of Vestrahorn Mountain, one of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. Vestrahorn is renowned for its dramatic peaks, often shrouded in mist and surrounded by endless stretches of black sand and sea. Just a short walk from the village, we encountered a magical, mirror-like lake, a shallow pond that was barely a few centimeters deep. The stillness of the water created perfect reflections, a unique element that gave an almost surreal quality to the photos. Jesse and Dan stood on the water’s surface, seemingly walking on a mirror that captured the towering mountain range behind them, a scene that felt almost too beautiful to be real.

The Viking Village itself provided a rustic, enchanting backdrop. Built to resemble an ancient Icelandic settlement, the village feels like it belongs to another era, which complemented the timelessness of Jesse and Dan’s love. The session had a moody, dramatic tone—something that Jesse and Dan embraced fully, as both travelers who feel at home in places where nature speaks loudest. They moved effortlessly through the session, sharing quiet laughs, gentle touches, and moments of awe as they took in the majestic landscape. As we explored, I found myself inspired by how Iceland’s beauty mirrors the strength and depth of their connection.

Iceland has a way of making you feel as though you’ve stepped into a dream. The mist would roll in one moment, giving everything a soft, almost enchanted glow, then drift away to reveal the striking sharpness of Vestrahorn’s peaks. This ever-shifting light felt like it was dancing around Jesse and Dan, adding a mystical quality to every shot. We played with reflections, framing them against the looming mountain and the dark, moody skies that are so characteristic of Icelandic weather. They were completely at home in this environment, as though their love story had been waiting for this moment all along.

Jesse and Dan’s session wasn’t just about capturing images; it was about capturing the essence of who they are together. These two are not only partners in love but also partners in life, always exploring, learning, and seeking out the world’s hidden treasures. They’ve traversed many places and collected countless memories, yet something about Iceland seemed to strike a special chord. And while each image speaks of love, there’s also a deeper sense of adventure and mystery woven through, an energy that only Iceland can provide.

For couples looking to capture their wedding, elopement, or honeymoon photos in Iceland, the possibilities are endless. Imagine exchanging vows on a black sand beach, standing in awe of a glacier lagoon, or embracing beneath a waterfall—the country is a canvas that feels both intimate and grand. It’s no wonder Iceland has become a sought-after destination for adventurous couples from around the world, and as an Iceland wedding photographer, I’m constantly inspired by the beauty that this incredible place brings to each love story.

If you’re dreaming of capturing your own love story in the epic landscapes of Iceland, I’d be honored to bring that vision to life. Jesse and Dan’s session was a powerful reminder of the beauty that unfolds when two people embrace both each other and the wonders of the world around them. So, if you’re planning an Iceland wedding or are interested in a honeymoon or elopement session, reach out. Let’s create something unforgettable in one of the world’s most captivating places.

 
Catherine & Austin's Destination Wedding in Dallas, Texas
 
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Catherine & Austin

A Dallas, Texas wedding at Cross Creek Ranch

I grew so fond of Catherine & Austin. Catherine and I would have almost monthly chats as she prepared for her destination wedding across the country in Texas. Catherine is actually from North Carolina, while Austin is from Arizona. The two met one another online, and the rest is history.

What I love about these two is their undeniable love for one another. Catherine moved to Louisiana about 2 months prior to their May wedding to be with Austin. Austin is in the Air Force, and is currently stationed in the state. They chose Texas as their wedding location as it was a mutual location where all parties could meet in the middle.

Their day was full of love and so much laughter. Their bridal party was such a good time, and I loved getting to know all of them while my husband and I were down in Texas with them.

My personal favorite images from their wedding day are those of the ceremony and the formals immediately following. The ceremony at Cross Creek Ranch is so dreamy as it overlooks the pond and lush green trees. The arbor framed Catherine and Austin almost perfectly. The light, as it grazed across their faces and hands as the rings were placed, was heavenly. The images of these two together? Some of my all time favorites. I cant get over their subtle looks, the relaxation of their breathing as they both knew that they were officially married made documenting extra special.

Congratulations, Catherine & Austin! Wishing you many years of love, light, and happiness.

XO,

Nikki

Special thanks to the vendor team

Venue // Cross Creek Ranch
DJ // DJ Kelly Hooper
Flowers // Cross Creek Ranch
Accommodations // Aloft Hotels Richardson

 
Stephanie and Dan's River Forest Manor and Marina Wedding in Belhaven, NC
 
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Stephanie and Dan’s River Forest Manor Wedding in Belhaven, NC

“Where do I begin?! Let me start with... I am not photogenic. I hate taking photos. I was not looking forward to any of the photography processes but Fancy This Photography made all our dreams come true! Nikki took our engagement photos, rehearsal dinner, wedding photos, and an additional mini shoot photo. At every shoot, she genuinely listened to our ideas, made us feel comfortable, and creatively came up with unique ways to enhance shots. The photos came out better than we could have ever imagined. I never felt like I was taking photos with Nikki. I felt like we were hanging out with a best friend that kept us laughing the entire time. I was lucky to meet Samantha at our wedding (as the second shooter) and she is wonderful as well! They both are so supportive, make you feel so confident, and are a blast to be around!”— Stephanie, The Bride

It’s not very often that I find blog posts difficult to write. With Stephanie and Dan, I have found it so hard to put my thoughts and experience on paper—as its just overwhelmingly happy. I met Stephanie and Dan at The Carolina Inn bridal show a couple of years ago. I remember Stephanie’s energy, her laugh, and the sweetness she had towards me. At that time, I did not know she would end up being such a great friend.

Leading up to their wedding, we would have dinner and drinks almost every other month. I always enjoyed getting to know she and Dan, and looked forward to hearing all about their wedding. It was because of this that we became close, and that on their wedding day it just seemed like all was well with the world. No nervous jitters on my end (I am typically always nervous right before a wedding), but with theirs I was just so happy to serve my now dear friends.

Their day started out with both sets of their bridal party getting ready in the prettiest of suites. Stephanie and her bridesmaids (and bridesman—looking at you, Alex) got ready in the utterly perfect bridal suite at River Forest Manor. The entire room had windows surrounding it overlooking the water and the pier of the venue. This created such a nice touch and the photos from here are just ah-mazing! Like, thank you River Forest Manor for having a great spot like this! Dan and his groomsmen got ready in the Grooms suite which was separate from the main venue—and right on the water.

Their bridal party was fairly large—it was such a fun site to see when they all lined up to head down the aisle right in front of the venue on the steps. To paint a picture… imagine this gorgeous house of a venue with towering columns right in front with steps leading up to the old wooden and vintage door—all white backdrop, and a gorgeous bride in white walking down the aisle. To say it was magical was an understatement. Stephanie walked down the aisle with her father, and the way Dan looked at Stephanie was so endearing. Their ceremony brought me to tears—from the sheer beauty of it, and the fact that I had a front row seat to it.

Later, at their reception, the newlywed couple did a choreographed dance as their first dance. There was a LIFT, yall! Like, Dan and Stephanie did a LIFT during their first dance song! The first dances with their parents were sweet to witness for everyone there. And, the toasts came from generosity, love, and history. This was such a fun part of their night to photograph (especially the cake cutting and champagne toast!).

The night was filled with so much dancing, laughter, and friends and family from all over the States. At some point during the night, Stephanie and Dan loaded a docked boat at the Marina, and popped champagne for their bridal party. Let me repeat—THEY POPPED CHAMPAGNE OFF OF A BEAUTIFUL YACHT! This was so fun to watch, but also photograph!

They ended their night with a fun farewell exit leading them to the pier with all of their friends and family surrounding them. It was one of the sweetest endings to a wonderful day. The moon was full, and so were hearts. Cheesy, I know—but, it was a downright perfect day!

Stephanie and Dan, it was an honor serving you on your wedding day, and all of the days leading up. Thank you for your kindness, love, and most of all—friendship. Congratulations, and well wishes for a joyful marriage! Love you both!

Special thanks to all of their amazing vendors who made this day possible!

Planning and Coordination by Plume Events (Seriously, Amy was amazing!!)
Wedding Venue at River Forest Manor
Rehearsal Dinner at The Tavern at Jack’s Neck
Catering by Capital City Chefs
Flowers by Plume Events
DJ by Perfect Event Entertainment
Makeup by Bardot Studio
Hair by Bardot Studio
Rentals by CE Rental
Cake by Publix in New Bern
Invitations by The Salted Script
Signage and Calligraphy by Mason Dixon Designs