WHAT TO DO IF IT RAINS ON YOUR WEDDING DAY
Here in Southern Ontario, we often can’t wait for the Summer months. Where we are often blessed with a gorgeous few months of sunshine and weather that makes you want to embrace the outdoors. It’s only natural you’d want to have the weather on your side on your wedding day too. Whether you want to have a beautiful ceremony in the vineyard, get married overlooking the lake, get married on the beach or have a rustic yet elegant woodland wedding. We really have all the options just a stone’s throw away! If an outdoor wedding is the vision for your day, one of the number one questions I receive is what to do if it rains on your wedding day?
As a wedding planner, my goal is to make your vision come to life but I have to be mindful of all scenarios. Firstly, you have to plan for a 100% chance of rain. I want you to still love your rainy day option so that you’re focused on enjoying your day and not feeling like you’ve had to compromise your vision.
Consult with your wedding planner and other wedding vendors
Firstly, your wedding vendor team should know exactly what to do if it rains on your wedding day. It is likely not their first wedding with unpredictable weather, so they can step in and help plan ahead for rainy weather. Having flexibility in your timeline is often helpful so that you can make opportunities when there are any breaks in the weather. This might mean delaying your ceremony a little if you really want it outside and doing photos later on.
Your wedding planner should be the first person you chat to about this and they will be able to consult with your vendors & venue on what the rainy weather alternative should be. If you do not have a wedding planner (side note, reach out to me and we can chat about what it’s like to work with Lindsay Plank Events), then you should first consult the venue coordinator to see what they normally do. Secondly, reach out to your photographer to see what they would recommend for backup photo locations.
Check out our 12 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue blog for more questions to ask your venue.
Indoor Backup Plan
When it comes to your venue, you need to make sure you have a rain alternative so that you and your guests are warm and dry. If you want the outdoor feel, then a clear tent could be a lovely way to get the best of both worlds. Trust me… tents don’t have to feel like you’re camping and can be an absolutely stunning alternative when combined with thoughtful decor. Another option is to choose a venue that also has a beautiful indoor option as an alternative for you
Create a Cozy Environment
I don’t know about you but the rain sometimes just feels so romantic! That is unless you are stuck in a downpour without a space to dry off. Creating a cozy environment for your guests to dry off can help give your wedding all those snuggly, romantic vibes. Some suggestions include giving your guests throws as favours and having some towels to dry off if you end up going outside for some rainy photos.
Pro Tip: When you’re taking photos, be mindful of the hem of your dress so that it doesn’t drag. Your wedding party & wedding planner can help you with this!
It is always good to have a plan, be it a drizzle or a heavy shower having a plan for rain is a good idea just in case.
Have a Plan B at your venue
Umbrellas at the ready
Blankets
Wellies for outdoor festival weddings
Consider your Hair and Makeup
Invest in a Special Umbrella
Once your guests' umbrella needs have been met, make sure you (and the wedding party) have chic umbrellas that'll look good in any outdoor photos your photographer will capture. Clear umbrellas work best, so they don't take center stage in the pictures. Plain white will also do the trick. With that said, Lindsay Plank Events also offers clear umbrellas for all your wedding party needs during wedding photos. Of course, you might decide that a stand-out umbrella would be better as a contrast - if so, go for it!
Get Creative with Photos
One of the things I love about so many of the wedding photographers I get to work with is that they are so creative and can make rain look absolutely magical. Think kissing in the rain, glistening raindrops, and adding fun props like rainboots or clear umbrellas. If you also have flexibility in your timeline you can find a break in the rain for a few outdoor shots without the rain. It’s also worth scoping out the location for some indoor alternatives that will also be beautiful to remember.
What to do if it rains on your wedding day? Embrace it!
Lastly, the thing I tell all my couples is that it’s important not to stress about things that are not in your control. Embracing the rainy day weather will make the day one to remember… in years to come you won’t remember the weather as much as how special you felt on your wedding day.
Did you know that there are actually some positives to rain on your wedding day? Still need some convincing? Here are a few reasons why:
Some people believe rain on your wedding day is good luck!
Rain actually helps break up some of the harsh light to make for some gorgeous lighting. Just ask your photographer!
If your wedding is right in high allergy season, rain helps reduce the pollen count. Allergy sufferers will be very thankful.
Your wedding flowers will stay refreshed and it will help them last longer.
Lastly… rainbows! You can’t have rainbows without a little rain.
I hope I’ve helped you come up with a plan for what to do if it rains on your wedding day. Remember, having a wedding planner on your team can help navigate these scenarios and make your day run more smoothly. If you’re looking for a wedding planner, book a consultation so we can chat about how to make the vision of your wedding come to life.
