18 Tips for Planning for Inclement Weather on your Wedding Day
POV: you’re getting married in a few days/weeks, the weather app on your phone is by far the most used, and you’re worried about inclement weather on your wedding day. I get it! You put so much work and planning into this day and you want it to be perfect. That’s why I’ve made this blog to help prepare you for whatever weather you might run into. You can have peace of mind knowing you’ve got a back-up plan!
CONSIDER:
Renting a tent: While you will have to incur this cost even if the weather cooperates, this is a great way to shelter your guests if it’s really sunny or if it is raining. You can always use the tent for cocktail hour if you still want to have your ceremony out in the open. You can rent large event tents from:
The Party Collective: delivery available in Kamloops, Kelowna, Salmon Arm and the entire Thompson and South Okanagan area and a convenient pick-up/drop-off in Kamloops and Salmon Arm.
Rogers Rentals: serving the Thompson Okanagan area of British Columbia, including Kamloops, Vernon, Salmon Arm, Revelstoke, Clearwater, Williams Lake, Kelowna BC.
Prepare an indoor option: Unfortunately, mother nature doesn’t always behave and an outdoor wedding might not be an option day-of. Always ask your venue what their plan is in case it rains, and make sure this back-up space works for you as well in case you need to use it.
IF IT’S CRAZY HOT/SUNNY
Fans: Having fans for your guests will help with the heat and get a good breeze going. Either set up a few throughout the venue or get handheld fans (get a pack of 24 on Amazon here) — if you’re budget allows for it, you could even get fans with your wedding date or names on them as party favors like this one on Etsy!
Water: Hydration is key! Be sure to stay hydrated, take breaks if needed, and keep your guests hydrated as well.
Shade: For your portraits, we will be sure to find either in indoor space or an area with lots of shade — ask any photographer, direct sun at peak times during the day is something we want to avoid for your wedding photos! No harsh shadows over here.
IF IT’S COLD/SNOWY
Bring blankets: provide your guests with something to keep them warm – these can also double as your party favors! Get a pack of blankets like this one here.
Have a fire pit: if your wedding is in the fall or winter and you are planning an outdoor ceremony, having a firepit or fireplace somewhere for your guests to warm up their hands would be so thoughtful and help in keeping them warm.
Serve Hot Chocolate or Cider: hot cocoa bar? YES PLEASE! Serve your guests something warm and cozy while you say ‘I do’. Add in a special touch by serving them in personalized cups or mugs as a party favor.
Tell your guests to dress accordingly: be honest with your guests and be sure you tell them it could be cold out, so wearing boots and coats to keep warm during the ceremony is highly recommended. As adults, you’d think they would all know this, but there’s always that one uncle who doesn’t clue in.
Indoor photo locations: if you’re wanting those dreamy, snowy couples portraits for your winter wedding, let’s do it! But to avoid staying out in the cold for too long, we will find an indoor option for some of your photos as well.
IF IT’S RAINING
Umbrellas: These keep your guests dry and can make for some unique photos for your ceremony and wedding party.
Bring extra shoes: Bring extra shoes so that you can keep your wedding shoes looking nice for later. Also, have someone find and relay the best pathways to walk around your venue and avoid mud!
Indoor photo locations: again, if you’re wanting some outdoor photos in the rain we can totally do that! Be sure to bring umbrellas to avoid ruining hair and makeup (or if you’re ready to fully embrace it, I’m good with that too!) But to avoid staying out in the rain for too long, we will find an indoor option for some of your photos as well.
IF IT’S WINDY
Anchor the tent: If you have a tented wedding, be sure to anchor the tent and any flower arrangements so that they won’t blow away.
Use extra hairspray and bobby pins to secure your hair style, and make sure to have a touch up before pictures. Your hair stylist should be able to give you the best options for hair that will withstand the wind.
Designate someone to smooth your dress once you are up the aisle to keep you looking your best (usually a member of your wedding party.)
Have an indoor space planned for photos if wind isn’t a part of your wedding photo dreams or you’re worried about ruining your hair.
Extra Tips:
Tell your guests ahead of time if you are planning on going ahead with your outdoor ceremony regardless of weather — this will allow them to prepare the proper footwear and outerwear.
If the time of year you are getting married in has the potential for bad driving, tell guests to arrive a half hour before you actually need them there. This is a built-in buffer for bad traffic and road conditions.
EMBRACE IT! As crappy as it is, you can’t change the weather. Rain or shine; your wedding is happening. Remember that the day will be beautiful no matter what — because it’s all about celebrating the journey that brought you here.