Embracing Rainy Wedding Days: Making The Most Of Unexpected Weather

Rain on your wedding day might be considered unlucky by some, but it doesn't have to be. In fact, according to Hindu tradition, a rainy wedding is a sign of a lasting marriage, as a wet knot is harder to untie.

If you're worried about the weather on your big day, there are plenty of ways to prepare for the worst while hoping for the best. From a practical perspective, it's a good idea to take out wedding insurance, which will cover you if you need to cancel or reschedule due to bad weather. It's also worth talking to your venue about their rain backup plan, and making sure you have a clear idea of what you'll do if it pours.

On the day itself, there are lots of ways to make a rainy wedding fun. Umbrellas and rain boots can be a cute addition to your wedding outfit, and a great prop for photos. Speaking of which, a skilled photographer will be able to capture the beauty of a rainy wedding, and you might even get some dramatic portraits you wouldn't have been able to take in the sun.

So, if rain is in the forecast for your wedding, don't panic. With a bit of preparation, a rainy wedding day can still be an amazing one.

Choose a venue with a rain backup plan

Choosing a venue with a rain backup plan is crucial for a stress-free wedding day. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect venue with a solid backup plan:

Consider the Venue's Backup Plan

When selecting a venue, it's essential to inquire about their rain backup plan. Ask if they have another protected space on-site that can accommodate your wedding ceremony and reception. Some venues may have extra buildings or rooms available, while others might suggest renting a tent. If renting a tent is your only option, be sure to factor in the additional cost, as it can be quite expensive, especially if arranged last minute.

Tour the Backup Spaces

If the venue offers alternative spaces, be sure to include these backup areas in your venue tour. Assess whether these spaces are large enough to accommodate your entire guest list. If not, consider if adding a tent as a backup option is feasible. This way, you can be confident that you have a comfortable and spacious area for your guests, regardless of the weather.

Opt for Clear Umbrellas

If your venue doesn't offer clear umbrellas, consider ordering some online. Clear umbrellas are a fantastic solution as they provide uniformity and allow natural light to illuminate the faces of those sheltering beneath them. Dark umbrellas, on the other hand, cast shadows and can ruin the cohesive look you may be aiming for. Having clear umbrellas on hand will ensure you can still capture beautiful portraits, even in the rain.

Be Prepared for Last-Minute Changes

It's always a good idea to be prepared for unexpected weather changes. Having a rain backup plan will help you stay calm and collected, knowing you have a solution in place. Be prepared to make last-minute adjustments and go with the flow. Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love and union, and a little rain won't dampen that spirit!

Ask About Vendor Flexibility

Inquire about the flexibility of your vendors. A skilled and experienced vendor team will be adept at making last-minute changes seamlessly. Discuss your rain backup plan with them and trust their expertise. Understand that there might be some limitations, such as puddles in photos or your hair not staying perfectly in place, but embrace the perfectly imperfect day that will create unique and memorable moments.

By following these tips and choosing a venue with a well-thought-out rain backup plan, you can rest assured that your wedding day will be memorable and special, regardless of the weather.

Prepare for the chill with a stylish coat

If you're preparing for a rainy wedding, it's important to be prepared for the chill with a stylish and comfortable coat. Here are some tips to help you achieve both style and functionality:

Firstly, opt for a stylish coat that complements your wedding outfit. Consider the colour, style, and fabric to ensure it enhances your overall look. A tweed coat, for example, can be a great choice to pair with a slip dress for a warm and elegant ensemble. Alternatively, a chic pantsuit with slim trousers and a matching jacket can provide both style and insulation.

To strike a balance between warmth and fashion, focus on layering. You can opt for a single heavy jacket or go for a few lighter layers, such as a thin sweater or cardigan under your coat. This approach gives you more flexibility, especially if you'll be moving between indoor and outdoor spaces. Don't forget to pay attention to the fabric; wool and cashmere are excellent choices for warmth and style.

If you're concerned about bulkiness, consider silk underwear as a discreet heat-trapping layer. It's not thick or bulky and can help you stay warm without adding extra volume. Additionally, accessorise with stylish scarves, gloves, and hats to keep the chill at bay.

For outdoor ceremonies, especially in colder months, don't underestimate the importance of staying warm. Hand warmers can be a lifesaver and can be discreetly tucked into pockets. Consider a heated wrap to keep your core warm, ensuring you stay comfortable and stylish throughout the celebration.

Remember, preparing for a rainy wedding is all about blending practicality and style. By choosing the right coat and incorporating thoughtful layers and accessories, you'll be ready to face the weather with elegance and confidence.

Keep guests dry with umbrellas and encourage sharing

Keeping guests dry with umbrellas and encouraging sharing is a thoughtful way to ensure your guests are comfortable and happy on your wedding day. It's a good idea to have a stash of umbrellas on hand for your guests, and you can even get creative with this! Opt for clear umbrellas to let in natural light for photos and to maintain a cohesive look. You could also provide colourful umbrellas that match your wedding colour palette or theme. If you're feeling extra generous, you might want to provide cute rain boots for your guests as well.

If you're working with a tighter budget, you can encourage guests to bring their own umbrellas by including rain cards in your invitations. This way, guests will be prepared and know that you have a rain plan in place. You can also ask your wedding party to spread the word and inform guests that umbrellas will be available and that sharing is encouraged.

Umbrellas will not only keep your guests dry, but they can also add a whimsical and romantic touch to your wedding photos. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even sneak away with your partner for a first look and a kiss under a shared umbrella. These rainy-day portraits will be intimate and unique, capturing the playful nature of your love as you stomp in puddles and embrace the elements.

So, don't stress about the rain! Embrace it and make it a part of your special day. Your guests will appreciate your thoughtfulness, and you'll be left with memorable photos that showcase the beauty of your wedding, rain and all.

Add a tent for a backup plan

Adding a tent is a great backup plan if you're planning an outdoor wedding ceremony and reception. It's always safer to have a rain backup plan than none at all. If your venue doesn't have an indoor option, be proactive and rent a tent to save yourself from stressing about the weather on your special day.

When choosing a tent, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, select the right size tent to accommodate your guest count and any other features you may want, such as a dance floor. Secondly, consider the type of tent you want. Clear-top tents are a great option as they allow sunlight in during the day and provide a beautiful view of the night sky. You can also choose from a variety of lighting schemes to create the perfect ambiance, such as perimeter lighting or starburst lighting. If you're concerned about the aesthetics of a tent, local designers can transform it into a beautiful piece of art.

In addition to choosing the right tent, there are a few other things to keep in mind. Make sure to reserve a tent well in advance, as they can be in high demand and you may need to work with a specific vendor. Also, be sure to check with your venue to ensure that tents are allowed on the property. Finally, consider creating a bad-weather fund to cover any additional expenses, such as tent rental or other backup plan costs.

By adding a tent as a backup plan, you can rest assured that your wedding day will be stunning and amazing, regardless of the weather. So go ahead and embrace the day for the joyful occasion that it is!

Embrace the rain and have fun with it

If you're getting married in the rainy season, or if there's a chance of rain on your wedding day, you can still have fun and make the most of it! Here are some tips to embrace the rain and create a memorable celebration:

Choose the Right Venue

Select a venue that has a rain backup plan. Consider a place with a secondary emergency tent or extra buildings/rooms onsite as an alternative option. Adding a tent is a great backup plan, especially if you're planning an outdoor ceremony and reception. Clear walls or white-walled tents can let in natural light, creating beautiful portraits. If a tent isn't an option, porches or even trees can provide shelter from lighter rain.

Prepare for the Weather

Purchase stylish and functional umbrellas, preferably clear ones, to keep you and your bridal party dry during outdoor photos. Clear umbrellas let in natural light and maintain a cohesive look, especially if you're particular about your wedding colour palette. You can also provide umbrellas and blankets for your guests to ensure they stay warm and comfortable. If you're feeling adventurous, get matching rain boots for you and your bridal party, adding a fun and whimsical touch to your rainy day celebration.

Plan for Touch-Ups

Schedule some time for touch-ups after your bridal portraits. Even with umbrellas, there might be some minor imperfections on your dress or suit due to the rain and mud. Having time for touch-ups will ensure you look flawless for your ceremony. It's also a good idea to ask your hair and makeup artist to stay a little longer for any last-minute touch-ups.

Sunset Portraits

Don't skip the sunset portraits, even if it's raining! These portraits can be extra freeing and joyful. Embrace the rain and get incredible images with your partner, sharing your love as the rain falls. Just remember to schedule these portraits a bit earlier during the golden hour, as the light fades quickly on cloudy days.

Rainy Day Photos

Embrace the rain and use it as a backdrop for creative and intimate photos. Leaning into the moody nature of a rainstorm can result in seriously gorgeous images. You can even do a fun rainy photo session with your wedding party, holding cute umbrellas and wearing colourful rain boots. These photos will undoubtedly be unique and full of playful memories.

Frequently asked questions