Rain or Shine: Navigating Inclement Weather on Your Wedding Day (and What To Do If It Rains on Your Wedding Day)
Every bride asks the question, What do I do if if rains on my wedding day? Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and while we all hope for perfect weather, Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. That’s why having a well-thought-out rain plan is a crucial part of wedding preparation. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of a rain plan and how couples can make the most of it, drawing inspiration from Michael and Emily’s rainy wedding day in early October.
Why a Rain Plan Matters
First and foremost, let’s talk about why a rain plan is essential. Weather can be unpredictable, and rain can potentially disrupt any outdoor elements of your wedding day, from the ceremony to outdoor portraits. Having a plan in place ensures that your special day can go on smoothly, rain or shine. The best time to start your rain plain is when you are searching for your venue. Ask your venue how they handle rain. Do they have an indoor option? Can they provide a tent, or do they allow large tents from an outside vendor? These are all important questions to ask.
It Rains at Michael and Emily’s Wedding Day at Boxwood Estate
Michael and Emily’s wedding day was set for early October at the Boxwood Estate in Mocksville. They had dreamt of exchanging vows in a beautiful garden surrounded by lush greenery. However, as their big day approached, the weather forecast took an unexpected turn, predicting rain. Rather than let the rain dampen their spirits, they decided to embrace it and make the most of their day.
Creating a Rain Plan
- Move the Ceremony Indoors: One of the most critical aspects of a rain plan is having an indoor ceremony option. Michael and Emily wisely opted for a venue with an optional indoor space. This ensured that their vows would be exchanged without the risk getting themselves, or their guests wet. The space was then flipped to allow guests to return during cocktail hour for mingling and drinks while avoiding the rain.
- Covered Reception Area: To continue the celebration without interruption, the couple had a reception area covered by an elegant tent. This allowed their guests to enjoy the festivities while staying dry.
- Flexible Photo Opportunities: For portraits, Michael and Emily worked closely with myself and Rebecca, the primary photographer to find windows in the day when the rain subsided. During this time we were able to take the couple and the wedding party out for a few moments for portraits. We also scouted for covered areas and places indoors that provided beautiful backdrops for their photos.
Photography in Inclement Weather
For photographers, dealing with inclement weather is part of the job. Expert photographers are always on the lookout for places with the best natural light or know how to modify light with flash if natural light is unavailable. Rainy days can create unique opportunities for capturing romantic and moody images.
Additionally, photographers and planners are skilled at timing outdoor sessions during breaks in the weather. Even a light drizzle can produce stunning photos, as the water droplets create a dreamy, ethereal effect.
Embracing the Beauty of Rain
Michael and Emily’s story reminds us that rain doesn’t have to ruin your wedding day. In fact, it can add an element of romance and uniqueness that sets your day apart. With the right planning and mindset, you can turn a rainy wedding day into a beautiful and memorable experience.
So, whether you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, a beach wedding, or any other celebration where weather is a factor, always have a well-thought-out rain plan in place. It’s a safeguard that ensures your day unfolds seamlessly, no matter what the sky decides to do. And remember, expert photographers and planners are there to make the most of every weather condition, ensuring that your memories are captured beautifully, rain or shine.
More of Emily and Micheal’s Rainy Wedding Day at Boxwood Estates
A Big Thank You to Becca’s Pics for allowing me to tag along and second shoot this beautiful wedding!
For more rainy-day wedding day inspiration, click HERE
