As couples increasingly seek unique wedding destinations, Denmark has emerged as a top choice for international marriages. In September 2023, Lewis Elston-Sait and his husband, Luke, from Devon, chose to tie the knot at Copenhagen City Hall. The couple appreciated the country’s LGBT-friendly environment and the private, intimate nature of their ceremony.
Denmark has witnessed a remarkable surge in its international wedding industry, with weddings involving foreign couples increasing by 83% since 2019. The country has been a pioneer in same-sex marriage, having legalized it in 2012 and being the first to recognize same-sex partnerships in 1989. While it lacks the kitschy attractions of Las Vegas, Denmark is becoming a sought-after wedding destination in Europe.
Rasmus Clarck, co-founder of Getting Married In Denmark, highlighted the ease of the process as a significant factor in the country’s growing popularity. He noted that Denmark’s approach to wedding administration is innovative, particularly through its centralized digital system introduced in 2019. Couples can apply online with minimal documentation requirements, where even birth certificates are not necessary. The processing fee is 2,100 kr (approximately £245), making it accessible for many.
Charlotte Phaure-Davis and David Ellmer, who married in February 2025, found the process straightforward and efficient. They selected a highly-rated wedding planner online and completed their arrangements in just three weeks. For them, Copenhagen’s charm and vibrant atmosphere made it an attractive location, especially given family health concerns that ruled out a UK wedding.
The ceremony options cater to international couples, with services conducted in English, German, and Danish. However, this rising popularity has created challenges. In 2023, Denmark hosted 20,500 international weddings, leading to longer wait times for locals trying to secure dates at city halls. Some locations have even restricted applications to prioritize Danish couples.
Beyond Copenhagen, the island of Ærø has become a notable wedding venue. According to Yuki Badino, co-founder of Danish Island Weddings, the local town of Ærøskøbing has seen a dramatic rise in weddings, from approximately 200 events per year in 2008 to an expected 2,800 in 2024. The island’s picturesque scenery attracts couples seeking a fairytale setting, and its local economy has benefited significantly from the wedding boom.
Badino explained that the ease of getting married in Denmark stands in stark contrast to the bureaucratic hurdles present in many other countries. The streamlined processes enable couples from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their unions without excessive red tape.
Denmark’s reputation for facilitating marriages has contributed to its thriving wedding industry, making it a preferred choice for couples worldwide. With its beautiful landscapes and efficient systems, Denmark is not just a romantic destination but also a practical one for those looking to exchange vows.
