What If It Rains On My Wedding Day?
Planning a wedding involves countless details, from choosing the jaws on the floor dress to selecting a dreamy venue -I get it, you want everything to be perfect, right? There is, however, one element that no amount of planning can control: the bloody weather(and saying… “it won't rain on my wedding day….” won't make it any less likely! Rain on your wedding day might seem like a nightmare scenario (and with no pre-planning, trust me… it can be) but saddle up, this article is going to ease your worries and give you the ideas and tools you need to prepare so that you can turn what is perceived as the worst case scenario into the most memorable affair.
Should all couples have a rain plan?
Yes, yes and yes! Having a rain, hail, or shine plan in place ensures that regardless of what weather you are served, you have all bases covered and you can spend your day focusing on the important stuff, and not last-minute stress. Most venues will have a wet weather contingency option, some even offer both indoor and outdoor spaces so that it’s easy to transfer if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Be sure to ask about it at your initial consultations, and be also sure to check in with your florist and stylist and get their advice about transporting structures or decorations if you need to change plans last minute.
Having a rain plan doesn't necessarily mean you have to completely abandon the outdoor wedding of your dreams- you can often tentatively book marquees through party hire companies in the case of wet weather, and if that's not in the wedding budget, I’ve seen amazing ceremonies shot in the rain with all the guests sheltered with clear umbrella’s not to interrupt the view or aesthetics of the styling.
These suggestions of course are my two cents, however, whatever you decide, be sure to consider all of your options and have a secure plan for the rain, I promise this will provide peace of mind that will be utterly priceless on your big day.
Maintain your look… prepare for touch-ups
If you do not want to dissolve into a bridey puddle at the wedding, consider how your makeup will fair against the elements.. Check in with your makeup artist and have a detailed discussion about the weather forecast and the potential for rain and opt for products that are waterproof or water-resistant. Remember your makeup artist might be the best in the biz, but she is not a magician, plan to have touch products to maintain your look after being outside. Key products would be a lip, concealer, blotting paper and powder.
Have an alternative hair plan
Always keep an alternative hair plan in mind. Hair is usually the first thing to go at a rainy wedding, even if you stay bone dry. Extra moisture in the air tends to make curls drop faster than your guests will use up your bar tab. It might seem a bit extra, but get one of your helpers on the day to bring a heat styler, some bobby pins, and hair spray to the reception. Even if it's a quick fix, it's going to look better than a stringy fringe or humidity-induced flyaways. Having this little pre-plan in place will help you feel anxious about falling apart in the rain, and more included to get amongst it at the ceremony and your photos.
Use the rain for your photos
Rain = drama in photos. Most photographers you ask will say that you can create amazing work in wet weather (and yes- our equipment pays a soggy price, but anything for the art hey?)Y
Rain can add a romantic feel to your photos. An overcast lighting is the most flattering light you can ask for. From dramatic rain-kissed landscapes to romantic umbrella shots, the unique beauty that a rainy day can offer will make your wedding photos an unforgettable moment. Lean on your photographer when it comes to choosing locations for your photos. Often the best option is one that is close to cover/cars so that if the heavens open, you can run for cover. Embrace the chaos, trust your chosen photographer and just GO FOR IT! Even if your hair drops, you will have these photos forever.
Bring beautiful umbrellas, just in case!
Clear umbrellas are a god send for wet weather. They are the perfect way to continue shooting throughout the day without taking away from the venue, styling or most importantly- you and your fiance. They are great to use through the ceremony so that you can still get married at your dream location even if the heavens open up. (and it is 100% better than someone popping up a bunnings umbrella, seriously- you would be surprised how many I see at wet weddings!) They are great props for photos and just so dam romantic. You can generally purchase them last minute with overnight shipping from sites like amazon if the weather is getting increasingly gnarly as the day approaches. Also check with your venue, photographer, or car service, as they often too will have a set that you can use if you want to save your $$$.
Always talk with your vendors
Your vendors will know what to do! It’s so important to keep communicating with your vendors so that they will work together to work out the situation. They have done this 1000 times before and leaning on them for advice can lighten the load for you and your partner.
-Talk to your photographer/videographer about timing and photo locations best suited to the wet weather
-Talk to your venue about ceremony backup locations
-Talk to your florist and stylist about moving flowers/structures or decorations if you need to change your plans due to wet weather on the day.
-Talk to your hire company about moving chairs and potentially securing a marquee in the case of wet weather.
-Talk to your beauty team about the best styles and products to keep you looking your best all day.
-Talk to your car hire about pick up and drop offs to make sure you are not out in the elements longer than necessary.
-Talk to your coordinator about timelines for the day and if anything needs to be altered to allow extra time for changing locations, moving guests etc.
Prepare To Be Flexible
Flexibility is key when dealing with unexpected weather. Embrace the spontaneity of the day and be willing to adjust your plans as needed. Remember, some of the best memories are made when we embrace the unexpected. It’s important that you don’t let a little rain rupture your wedding day bubble.
Lastly, embrace the rain. Stay Positive!
Above all, maintain a positive attitude. Remember that the most important thing is celebrating your love and commitment to each other, rain or shine. Your guests are there to share this moment with you, and trust me- with a drink in hand they won't give two hoots about the weather. The bride and groom set the tone for the day, and just go with it positive attitude will make the day amazing, and one of the best of your life.
Simple reminders for you:
DO’S
-Take a deep breath and keep a positive attitude. This is your day, no rain is going to ruin that for you!
-Trust your vendors… they are your chosen professionals! They know how to work in different situations.
-Put plans and contingencies in place so you are never caught off guard.
-Trust your photographer. We want to create beautiful art for you, regardless of the conditions and we will have your back no matter what!
DONT’S
- Don’t let the weather wreck the absolute best day of your life!!!