Image by Raini Rowell Photography

So you’ve been planning your wedding for months–booked your vendors, found the perfect wedding day outfit, invited all of your friends and family–only to discover there’s a chance of rain on the big day. We know this can feel like the end of the world after all the hard work you’ve put in. But there’s no reason to let a little storm ruin one of the most important days of your life.

If you know there could be a chance of rain on your special day and want to be as prepared as possible, we’ve got some tips for you. From formulating a backup plan with your venue beforehand to supplying your guests with blankets and umbrellas, you can still pull off your dream day in even the worst weather.

Rain On Your Wedding Day Is Good Luck

First and foremost, before you start panicking about the chance of rain on your wedding day, it’s important to remember that it’s good luck. We know that you’ve probably heard that before and will most likely hear it multiple times throughout the day. It may not soothe your nerves entirely, but hopefully, it calms them a little bit. Who doesn’t want to be blessed with fortune, abundance, and a long-lasting marriage on their special day, after all?

Image by Erin Fraser

How To Plan For Rain On Your Wedding Day

Discuss It Beforehand With Your Venue

If you know there’s a chance for rain, discussing the possibility beforehand with your venue is crucial. Since they most likely host weddings frequently, there’s a very good chance that they have a backup option in the likelihood of rain–whether it be moving the wedding inside or renting a tent. If you have a wedding planner or coordinator, they’ll be able to have this discussion with the venue for you, which can help alleviate some of the stress.

Consider Renting A Tent

If you are set on having an outdoor wedding, and your venue allows a tent, consider renting one in case of inclement weather. We understand that you may have picked your venue because of the beautiful surrounding scenery, and you’re not willing to sacrifice those views. Luckily, there are a variety of clear-paneled tents that offer unobstructed views. They also happen to look beautiful in the evening when decorated with fairy lights. 

Create Extra Lighting With Candles

Speaking of lighting, the gloomy clouds may make the day much darker than expected if you’re hosting an outdoor celebration. To create some extra lighting, set up candles throughout the venue. This gives you a soft glow that helps illuminate the space while also making the setting that much more romantic. 

Image by Christina Stirpe Photography

Be Prepared For A Timeline Shift

Rainstorms are truly unpredictable, which means some will last 20-minutes while others may last hours. Because of this, we know that many couples opt to wait the storm out to see if it stops. It may also take more time to round up your wedding party for photos or move your guests from one location to another. All of this to say, be prepared for a timeline shift. Have a strict schedule? Hiring a planner ensures that things move along in a quicker fashion.

Have Rain Supplies For Guests

Your guests want to celebrate your love no matter what. So it’s essential to keep them as comfortable as possible throughout the day. Rain supplies such as umbrellas, blankets, towels, and heaters will help keep them dry and willing to party with you and your significant other all night. 

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Have a Rain Plan For Hair And Makeup

Rain and wind can wreak havoc on your wedding beauty look. To ensure that you look wedding ready all day long, you may want to consider an updo rather than loose curls and nothing but waterproof makeup. If you’re taking your photos after the ceremony, have your hair stylist stay for touch-ups, and have your maid of honor keep a makeup bag close by with everything you need to freshen up before portraits.

Don’t Let It Damper Your Day

You can do everything in your power to prepare for the rain, but the biggest piece of advice we can give is to embrace it. You’re allowed time to mourn the wedding you envisioned, but don’t let these emotions dictate your day. At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you’re tying the knot with the love of your life. Plus, rain makes for epic wedding stories and even better photos!

We know that planning for rain on your wedding day can feel like an added layer of stress to the whirlwind that is wedding planning. That’s why we can’t recommend hiring a wedding planner enough. To find the perfect planner for you, check out our directory of wedding planners from around the world.

Image by Five Fox’s Photography