Planning your wedding yourself can be rewarding, cost-effective, and highly personal. Denmark, known for its straightforward marriage process and stunning venues, is a perfect place for a DIY wedding. Whether you’re planning a cozy elopement or a grand celebration, here’s how to organize your own wedding in Denmark without a planner.
📋 1. Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Denmark
Denmark is known for its easy marriage laws, making it a great choice for international couples.
✔️ Apply for Marriage Approval – Submit your application to Danish Family Law (Familieretshuset) online.
✔️ Documents Needed: Valid passports, proof of marital status, and possibly a residency certificate.
✔️ Witnesses Required – If you’re having a civil ceremony, you’ll need two witnesses (which can be provided).
✔️ Processing Time – Approval usually takes 1-3 weeks.
💡 Tip: Check the latest requirements with Danish authorities before submitting documents.
🏛️ 2. Choosing the Perfect Venue
✔️ City Hall Ceremonies – A simple and elegant option in Copenhagen, Aarhus, or Ribe.
✔️ Beach & Outdoor Weddings – Denmark’s coastline is perfect for seaside ceremonies (Tisvildeleje, Skagen, Ærø).
✔️ Castle & Manor Weddings – Host your celebration in a historic venue like Dragsholm Castle or Hindsgavl Castle.
✔️ Forest & Nature Settings – Romantic locations like Rold Skov or Møns Klint.
💡 Tip: Book your venue at least 6-12 months in advance for peak seasons.
💐 3. DIY Wedding Decor & Theme Ideas
✔️ Minimalist Scandinavian Style – Clean lines, neutral tones, and elegant floral accents.
✔️ Wildflower Bouquets – Use seasonal, locally sourced flowers for a natural look.
✔️ Handmade Wedding Favors – Danish chocolates, mini candles, or DIY keepsakes.
✔️ Eco-Friendly Decor – Reusable materials, dried flowers, and repurposed furniture.
💡 Tip: Pinterest & Instagram are great for DIY wedding decor inspiration.
📸 4. Finding a Photographer & Capturing the Moments
Even a DIY wedding deserves professional photos to preserve the memories.
✔️ Hire a Professional Wedding Photographer – Look for someone with experience in Danish wedding settings.
✔️ Create a Photo List – Plan which moments you want captured (ceremony, first dance, details).
✔️ DIY Photo Booth – Set up a fun backdrop with instant cameras for guests to use.
💡 Tip: Book your photographer early—top professionals get booked months in advance.
🎶 5. Music, Entertainment & Wedding Playlist
✔️ DIY Music Setup – Rent high-quality speakers and curate a Spotify playlist.
✔️ Live Band or DJ – Consider local folk musicians, jazz bands, or acoustic singers.
✔️ Personalized Dance Floor – Use a custom playlist for your special moments.
💡 Tip: Create different playlists for the ceremony, dinner, and reception.
🍽️ 6. DIY Catering & Cake Options
✔️ Danish Smørrebrød Buffet – A fun, traditional open-faced sandwich spread.
✔️ Food Truck Catering – A trendy and casual option for outdoor weddings.
✔️ Local Bakeries for Wedding Cakes – Order a kransekage (Danish marzipan cake).
✔️ DIY Dessert Table – Include homemade treats, pastries, and chocolates.
💡 Tip: Hire servers or ask friends to help manage food and drinks.
📅 7. Creating a DIY Wedding Timeline
✔️ Set a Planning Timeline – Break tasks into monthly to-dos leading up to the big day.
✔️ Confirm Vendor Bookings – Photographer, venue, and catering should be confirmed at least 3-6 months ahead.
✔️ Have a Backup Plan – For outdoor weddings, rent a tent or have an indoor option.
✔️ Delegate Tasks – Assign small jobs to friends and family.
💡 Tip: Use wedding planning apps to stay organized.
📸 Capture Your DIY Wedding Beautifully
Even with a DIY wedding, your special day deserves stunning professional photography. Let’s make sure your memories last forever!
📸 Let’s make your wedding unforgettable—book your photographer today!
📸 See my latest works: Weddings Portfolio
✨ Follow my journey on Instagram: @alexmart_photo
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📩 Let’s make your dream wedding a reality! Get in Touch
