You’ve planned every minute, down to the last detail. You’ve spent years dreaming of happy smiles in glorious sunshine. You’ve even chosen a particular date to try and catch the fine weather. But, let’s face it, it’s the one thing you can’t control on your wedding day. Rain, rain, go away…
What can you do to mitigate the effects of a rainy day wedding? We’ve got you covered. (Pun intended) Let’s ensure that your celebration remains beautiful and stress-free regardless of the weather.
Positive Mindset
First things first, accept the weather for what it is. You can reduce your stress and anxiety by not trying to control the uncontrollable. With some backup planning, you will continue to breeze through the wedding journey in the lead-up to your big day.
Damp-proof your Wedding Venue
They say that Ireland is the best place in the world when the sun shines, and outdoor wedding ceremonies are really special. If you’ve booked outdoor nuptials, make sure you know what your options are for moving indoors. Discuss backup plans and spaces that can be used in case of rain. If you booked the terrace for arrival drinks, where will the welcome beverages be served if there is rain outside? Do they use their lobby or another setting for the guests and your party to enjoy without interruption?
Is there an option to be outside with a marquee, tent or awning, either provided by the venue or hired in? Maybe they have a gazebo or covered patio? Even if it is raining, the space can be made to feel warm and inviting with extra blankets, throws, and heaters. A cosy atmosphere can make a rainy day feel intimate and special. Can the Venue provide complimentary umbrellas if you need to pass outside when moving from space to space?
Grateful Guests
You want your guests to remain in high spirits, so you could provide some complimentary items for after your ceremony, like outside the chapel or transferring to the venue or drinks reception. Provide your ushers or groomsmen with the tools and a basket of things to help keep guests dry and happy. Have them lined up to communicate your Plan B if necessary. Provide umbrellas, ponchos, and small microfibre face towels for drying off if anyone gets caught. Invest in colourful umbrellas to match your wedding theme, or go for classic, clear umbrellas that won’t obstruct the view. Ask the venue to provide hot drinks on arrival, such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or even a hot toddy.
Pop a basket of useful items in the women’s bathroom, such as hairspray, hairpins, deodorants, and other touch-up items. Your lovely ladies will thank you for it.
Kit yourself Out
Have your own emergency kit and be prepared for the unexpected. Ask your MUA to assemble a mini wedding touch-up kit that your Maid of Honour can take care of. It must include essentials like waterproof mascara, makeup and powder. Ask your wedding hair stylist for a bag with hairspray, pins, and gel. The boys would have spare socks, hair gel and beard oil.
Misty Memories
Find a photographer who can show you wedding shoots they’ve done in the rain. Believe it or not, rain can make your wedding shots unique and spectacular if your photographer knows what they are doing. It requires some preparation, but you could use umbrellas and Wellies as props. If you include your wedding party, you could really go for different colours, which would make for lovely pictures. They could take advantage of puddle reflections or capture you amongst some foliage with raindrops.
Don’t rule out indoor shots. Ask your photographer and your venue coordinator where the best indoor location is for wedding photographs. They likely do weddings all year round, so they are used to capturing couples inside in the winter.
Love Every Moment
Finally, remember that your wedding day celebrates your love and commitment. Rain or shine, the most important thing is marrying the person you love. Steal a moment alone with your spouse to enjoy the rain. A quiet walk or a shared umbrella moment can be incredibly romantic. You’re sure to chase those clouds away.
If you are looking for more wedding inspiration and ideas, check out our website now!
