Wet Weather Contingency Plans for Your Wedding Day: Expert Tips and Options
- onthedaywcs
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
Planning a wedding is a beautiful whirlwind of emotions, But amidst the excitement, there’s one thing no couple can control: the weather.
I’ve seen the look of worry in a bride’s eyes as dark clouds gather, the deep breath a groom takes when unexpected rain starts to fall. But here’s the truth, rain doesn’t have to mean disaster. Some of the most magical, intimate moments happen when couples embrace the unexpected. A misty backdrop, soft candlelight reflecting on raindrops, the laughter of loved ones huddling together, these moments create stories that last a lifetime.
The key? A solid wet weather contingency plan that keeps the magic alive. Here are my best tips to help you feel calm, confident, and prepared, no matter what the forecast holds.
1. Choose a Venue with Flexibility
One of the most important considerations when planning for wet weather is selecting a venue that offers both indoor and outdoor spaces. This ensures that no matter what happens, you have a backup plan that doesn’t compromise the beauty or atmosphere of your day.
Look for venues that can seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor settings. Many venues have stunning indoor options that can still reflect your vision while keeping your guests dry. By choosing a venue with flexibility, you can relax knowing that the show can go on regardless of the weather forecast.
2. Invest in Elegant Outdoor Coverage
If you’re set on having an outdoor ceremony, but you're worried about rain, consider renting a stylish tent, marquee, or gazebo. Clear tents are particularly popular as they provide shelter while still letting in natural light and maintaining that open, airy feel.
Marquees come in a variety of sizes and styles, and they can be decorated to match your wedding theme. They create a beautiful space that allows you to enjoy the outdoors while staying protected from the elements. Be sure to discuss your options with your venue and suppliers well in advance to ensure you have the right type of coverage that complements your wedding.
3. Have Umbrellas On-Hand
Umbrellas are a small detail that can make a huge difference when it comes to wet weather. Not only do they keep your guests dry, but they also make for some truly memorable photos. You can offer guests umbrellas in a colour that complements your wedding theme, or even create custom umbrellas with your wedding date or a fun message.
Having umbrellas on-hand adds a thoughtful touch and keeps everyone feeling comfortable and stylish in case of rain. Plus, they’ll provide great opportunities for romantic wedding photos. Imagine you and your partner dancing in the rain with colourful umbrellas, it's a scene you’ll treasure forever.
4. Stay Flexible with the Timeline
Sometimes, the weather doesn’t cooperate as planned, and that’s okay! It’s important to stay flexible and allow for some extra time in your timeline for unforeseen changes, such as moving activities indoors or adjusting the flow of your event.
Communicate with your vendors ahead of time to ensure they are on standby and ready to adapt. If your ceremony is moved indoors or a reception starts later than expected, flexibility can help minimise stress. You may want to factor in a few buffer minutes between activities, especially if you need to re-set or adjust anything due to weather.
5. Embrace the Rain
While it might sound a little unconventional, sometimes the best thing you can do is embrace the rain and make it part of your wedding story. If you’re open to the idea, having your ceremony or even photos taken in the rain can add a beautiful, intimate feel to your day.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and no amount of rain should take that away. Imagine the warmth of an embrace beneath an umbrella, the romance of a candlelit reception, the intimacy of your closest loved ones huddled together, celebrating your love story.
Some of the most breathtaking wedding moments happen in the unexpected, it’s all about how you prepare for them.
With the right plan in place, you won’t just “get through” a rainy wedding day, you’ll embrace it, turning it into something unforgettable. And you don’t have to do it alone.
At On The Day, we take the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on what truly matters, celebrating your love.
Need help creating a seamless wet weather plan? Let’s make your dream wedding a reality, rain or shine. Schedule a call below, and let’s chat about making your day perfect—no matter the forecast!
