Make A Splash: Rainy Wedding Day Magic

Planning an outdoor wedding and worried about the weather? Don't panic! While rain might not be what you hoped for, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your big day.

First, it's important to have a plan B. Whether that's a marquee, a tent, or an indoor space, make sure you have somewhere to go if the heavens open. It's also a good idea to have some umbrellas on hand and, if your venue is in the countryside, a pair of wellies for photos.

Embracing the weather is key. Remember, the real reason you're getting married is to celebrate your love with family and friends. So, focus on that and try to relax. You can even get creative with your photos—use the rain and lighting to your advantage, and don't forget the dramatic post-rain sunset shots!

And, if all else fails, remember this: in some cultures, rain on your wedding day is seen as good luck.

Have a plan B

Having a plan B is crucial for making the best of a rainy wedding. Here are some detailed suggestions for your plan B:

Choose a venue with a rain backup plan

Almost all venues will have a backup plan for rain, but it is worth checking this in advance. If your venue doesn't have an indoor space, consider renting a tent as a backup option. Tents with clear walls are a great option as they let in natural light, perfect for portraits. If a tent is not possible, consider a porch or an area with tree cover to provide some shelter from the rain.

Umbrellas and rain gear

Have a selection of umbrellas on hand for you, your wedding party, and your guests. Clear umbrellas are a great option as they look elegant and uniform in photos while still letting in natural light. You could also get creative and choose umbrellas that match your colour scheme or theme. In addition to umbrellas, consider providing blankets and hot drinks to keep your guests warm and cosy.

Waterproof your makeup and hair

No bride wants their hair to frizz or their makeup to run! Use primer, waterproof makeup, and setting powder to ensure your makeup lasts all day. For your hair, use a humidity-resistant hairspray to keep things in place. If you have a hairstylist or makeup artist, ask them to stay for touch-ups throughout the day.

Keep a positive attitude

Remember, rain on your wedding day is considered good luck in many cultures, signifying a lasting marriage, a fresh start, fertility, and abundance. Embrace the situation and focus on the real reason you're getting married – to celebrate your love with your friends and family. A positive attitude will ensure you make the most of your special day, regardless of the weather.

Get creative with photography

Rainy weather provides unique opportunities for creative and intimate photos. Use the rain to your advantage and capture some fun and romantic moments with your partner and wedding party. Clear umbrellas, colourful rain boots, and puddles can add a whimsical touch to your photos.

Remember, a little rain won't ruin your big day. With a bit of planning and a positive attitude, you can still have a magical and memorable wedding.

Get creative with umbrellas

A rainy wedding day can be disappointing, especially if you've been dreaming of an outdoor ceremony and reception. But with some creativity and flexibility, you can make the most of it and even create unique and memorable moments. Here are some ideas to get creative with umbrellas on your rainy wedding day:

Choose Stylish and Functional Umbrellas

Umbrellas can be more than just a practical item to keep you dry. Opt for clear or transparent bubble umbrellas, which allow you to see your face and your wedding outfit while staying protected from the rain. These umbrellas are both stylish and functional, adding a touch of whimsy to your wedding photos. You can find them at affordable prices, and they are perfect for dreamy and romantic portraits. If you want to add a bit of colour or a statement, consider umbrellas with metallic polka dots, holographic designs, or even heart shapes.

Incorporate Umbrellas in Your Wedding Theme

If you know in advance that rain is likely, you can incorporate umbrellas into your wedding theme. Provide matching umbrellas for your bridal party or guests, or choose umbrellas in your wedding colour palette. This will create a cohesive and Instagram-worthy look for your wedding photos. You can also get creative with customisations, such as adding your wedding date or a personalised message to the umbrellas.

Use Umbrellas in Wedding Photos

Umbrellas can be a fun prop for your wedding photos. Get creative with poses, such as kissing in the rain or under bubble umbrellas in a forest. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a first look and romantic kiss with your soon-to-be spouse under a shared umbrella. These photos will capture the intimate and playful nature of your wedding day, creating unique memories that you'll cherish forever.

Cultural and Traditional Significance of Umbrellas

In some cultures and communities, umbrellas hold a significant role in wedding celebrations. For example, in Indian and Hindu ceremonies, colourful umbrellas or parasols signify protection and royalty. In a New Orleans wedding, decorated umbrellas are used in a tradition known as a "second line," where the couple and guests parade from the ceremony to the reception with jazz music. Embracing these traditions can add a special touch to your rainy wedding day.

Practical Considerations

While getting creative with umbrellas is important, don't forget the practical aspects. Ensure you have enough umbrellas for your bridal party and guests, and encourage sharing. If you're providing guest umbrellas, consider choosing a colour or style that complements your wedding theme. Additionally, think about other rainy-day essentials, such as rain boots or wellies, and cosy accessories like blankets and hand warmers to keep everyone warm and comfortable.

So, if it's looking like rain on your wedding day, don't despair. Get creative with umbrellas, embrace the adventure, and you'll still have a magical and memorable celebration.

Wear wellies/rain boots

If the weather forecast predicts rain on your wedding day, the best thing you can do is embrace it and find ways to make a stylish statement. One way to do this is by wearing wellies or rain boots. Not only will they keep your feet dry, but they can also add a fun and colourful touch to your wedding outfit.

For brides, tall wellies in white or a pop of colour can be a great choice. Hunter Wellies, for example, come in a variety of colours and can look fantastic with your wedding gown. If you're on a tighter budget, retailers like Target, Macy's, and Nordstrom offer more affordable options.

For bridesmaids, flower girls, mothers of the bride and groom, and even guests, wellies or rain boots can also be a practical and fashionable choice. Consider purchasing these in advance if the forecast looks rainy. This way, you can ensure everyone's comfort and create cohesive photo opportunities.

Wellies or rain boots are easy to switch in and out of as you move between locations, and they can add a unique and memorable touch to your wedding day, embracing the rain rather than letting it dampen your spirits!

Don't stress about the weather

If you're worried about the weather on your wedding day, there are a few things you can do to prepare:

• Have a plan B: If you're planning an outdoor wedding, make sure you have a backup plan in case of rain. Talk to your venue about their rain backup plan and include any backup spaces in your venue tour.
• Umbrellas: Have a selection of umbrellas on standby for yourselves, your wedding party, and your guests. Clear umbrellas are a great option, as they look elegant and allow natural light to shine through.
• Wellies: If your venue is in the countryside or has lots of grounds, consider bringing a pair of wellies or waterproof shoes for outdoor photos.
• Blankets: If it's going to be chilly, set out some blankets or pashminas for you and your guests to keep warm.
• Hair and makeup: Consider an updo or braid for a low-maintenance, rain-tolerant hairstyle. You can also ask your hair and makeup artist to stay a little later for touch-ups.
• Sunset portraits: Even if it's rainy, don't skip out on sunset portraits! These photos can be extra freeing and joyful, and you can embrace your partner without worrying about the rain.
• Go with the flow: Remember, you can't control the weather, so try to stay positive and focus on the reason you're getting married—to celebrate your love with your friends and family.

So, if it looks like rain on your wedding day, don't stress! Embrace the weather, and enjoy your special day.

Use the rain for photos

Rain on your wedding day can be a good thing, especially when it comes to your wedding photos. Here are some tips to make the most of the rain and capture beautiful, memorable images:

• Communicate with your photographer: Discuss your concerns about rainy-day photos and ask for their suggestions on alternative photo locations. They will have a range of rainy-day options to choose from.
• Use props: Bring along colourful umbrellas, parasols, and rain boots to add a playful and whimsical touch to your photos. These props can also provide a cohesive look for your wedding party.
• Embrace the first look: An outdoor first look with a side of downpour can be magical and memorable, adding a dose of drama to this special moment.
• Play with reflections: Puddles and wet surfaces can create interesting reflection shots. Look for opportunities to capture the happy couple and their glowing outfits in unique ways.
• Go for a stroll: Take advantage of the charming streets and walkways by escaping the venue and capturing some intimate moments under shared umbrellas.
• Get creative with lighting: If the sky is overcast, use flash or back-flash techniques to illuminate the couple and create a natural flare of light. This can add a dreamy and dazzling effect to your photos.
• Be adventurous: Let loose, dance in the rain, and embrace the adventure of a rainy wedding day. These natural, candid moments will result in the best, most authentic photos.
• Seek out authenticity: Use nature as your backdrop, such as a scenic stroll with matching white parasols or a rustic-chic barn setting with spare umbrellas.
• Prepare for touch-ups: Have a hair and makeup artist on standby to do any necessary touch-ups throughout the day, ensuring that the rain doesn't dampen anyone's spirits or styles.
• Protect your photography gear: Use rain sleeves or zip lock bags to protect your camera and lenses from the elements. It's also a good idea to have backup options in case the rain becomes too heavy.

Frequently asked questions