Ashley McGrath Photography
The vital conversation every bride and groom dreads - what happens if it rains?
As wedding planners, we go into every wedding weekend praying and hoping for beautiful weather. 75% of the time it works and our couples are blessed with sunny skies for their nuptials. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case and that 25% sneaks in to sprinkle on your day.
While we know rain on your big day isn’t ideal, it doesn’t have to ruin your special occasion. We prepare a thorough rain backup plan to ensure your “Plan B” is just as dreamy as “Plan A.”
Here’s everything that goes into creating your rain backup plan:
1. Rain Backup Layout
Yah Photography, Vintage Soul Floral Design, Separk Manson
When you first tour a venue, consider every possible ceremony space available for your day. From there, determine your #1 ceremony, cocktail hour & reception spaces, your #2 spaces, and so on. We’ll take your preferences and create a separate layout for your rain backup space. If the rain does come, we’ll have a plan already in place.
2. Making The Call
Kristen Privette Photography
Before signing a venue contract, you’ll be filled in on many details about the location, including the rain call. This is when the venue makes the final decision on whether to move your outdoor set-up indoors. Usually, venues will make the call 48 hours in advance, depending on the forecast for the weekend. This call marks the cutoff to ensure your wedding day set-up is ready in time.
3. Tent Protection
Click Away Photography, VanLandingham Estate, Aprils Floral Expressions, Creative Solutions
Depending on your vendors, a tent may be a requirement. For example, all bands playing outdoors will need a tent to protect their equipment, cables, and setup from the elements. Likewise, some venues require the use of a tent, especially if there is no indoor backup space to fall back on. If you need to reserve a tent, we suggest reserving one sooner rather than later. Tents quickly book up and may produce extra fees if waiting until the last minute.
To prepare for this cost, make sure to include it in your total budget from the beginning. The retainer fee is usually 50% of the total cost and the other 50% is refundable if the weather cooperates with your day.
4. Picture Perfect
Before your day arrives, try scouting out potential photo spots during your venue walkthroughs. Extra points if your photographer has shot at your venue before - they’ll know all the best on-site locations. Consider both indoor & outdoor spots, just in case the rain decides to make an appearance. Pro tip: stay away from any grassy or gravely areas for photos in the rain. You’re safest indoors or on concrete surfaces :)
5. Dressing For The Occasion
Howard Photo + Film, Morning Glory Farms, Nectar Floral, Cali Stott Artistry
If the rain is going to happen, make it part of your day’s appeal. Consider offering your guests and bridal party clear umbrellas for a visually appealing scene. If you do take outdoor photos, clear bubble umbrellas look adorable and won’t clash with your color palette. Pack a couple pairs of rain boots for you and your love to protect your heels in between pictures.
6. Weather Updates
One of the biggest factors of your rain backup plan involves a constant eye on the weather forecast. We check the weather nonstop during your wedding week, looking for any signs of rain, extreme wind, or conditions that would otherwise affect your day’s setup. We worry, so you don’t have to ;)
7. Good Luck Charm
Indigo Photography
If you’re interested in some extra reinforcement against the rain, consider this wedding tradition for good luck! Legend has it that burying a bottle of bourbon on your venue’s property will keep the rain away. If the bourbon succeeds, you can enjoy a celebratory drink the night of your wedding!
8. Rain Or Shine - Have A Good Time
Samantha Grigg Photography, Blushing Hair and Makeup
No matter what happens, the most important takeaway is to enjoy yourself! Even if the rain makes an appearance on your day, we’d encourage you to seek out the positives and focus on the main point: you’re getting married to the love of your life. A little rain simply means you’ll have better photos (seriously, cloudy skies are a photographer’s dream), thankful flowers, and a unique atmosphere to set your day apart.