The big day is approaching and the excitement among the bride, groom, family and friends is mounting. Plans are afoot for possibly the most memorable day you could have thought possible but there is one huge worry on your mind. The weather. In Britain, we just know it’ll rain. It’s like knowing if someone wants a cup of tea. The answer is always, invariably, yes.
So, what do we do to protect our wedding day if the heavens are to open? Could it remain the most romantic day of your life if everybody gets soaked? Will it run without a hitch if the reception is no longer in a stunning garden but rather a boggy field?
Well, those answers might be down to taste. Some may like the idea of an outdoor wedding that sees guests shivering and soaked through. It would certainly live long in the memory! Others might find it funny seeing the tailored suits and bespoke dresses adorn drowned rats, it would certainly add some character to the photos!
In all seriousness though, you ultimately want a dry wedding or one that will be as dry as possible. You want everyone to feel like they have had a good time and enjoyed it rather than feeling like half the day was spent attempting to dry a suit jacket or refreshing the make-up.
Should you be fearful of the British weather taking a turn for the worse though, we’ve put together what you need to do so your big day runs without a hitch, even if there is a downpour.
But isn’t wedding day rain good luck?
Much depends on your beliefs. While many of us see rain as a negative aspect of any event, at weddings it is often viewed as something to be embraced. The reasons for this vary. We’ve all heard the term “tying the knot”. Now think of how easy it is to untie a knot when it’s wet. It’s much harder than doing it when it is dry. The symbolism here being that your wedding will be strong and hard to break down.
Others view rain on a wedding day as a sign of a fresh start where the rainfall washes away past indiscretions, bad memories or sad times. For some, rain is also a sign of fertility. Think about how our crops are grown, and you’ll get the connection.
Another symbolic connection to rain on a wedding day is tears. Some claim that the rainfall is indicative of the last tears that the bride will shed for the rest of her life. Now with the number of marriage breakups in the UK at a reported 42%, we, unfortunately, beg to differ on that one, but it is a nice analogy.
What to do if it might rain on your wedding day
Assuming you’ve read the above section, you might take wedding day rain with the heaviest dose of positivity possible. And that is fine. Just remember, not everybody will embrace it in the same way you have. So, you need a plan. Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered.
Stock up on boots and brollies
There can be a fair bit of standing around at a wedding and even if the ceremony itself takes place in a religious building or a registry office, there will likely be outdoor photos. Get your bridal party – and perhaps your guests if numbers aren’t too big – boots and brollies. Choose clear ones though, this will make your photos look much better and avoid covering up aspects of the stunning dresses and suits being worn.
Give guests some advance warning
Nobody likes to be caught out at the last minute so consider giving everyone notice that it could be a wet wedding. Avoid the negative spin by telling people of your contingency plans (basically, all the steps in this list!) and allow them to factor in any changes they may need to make. The daring white suit might not be as good an idea for your father-in-law as he first thought!
Think about photo priority
Our photos are our memories and whilst some photos illustrating just how wet you got might add an element of humour when you look back on your wedding day, consider having certain snaps taken before the rain falls. Then, should it be raining later, you can get those more light-hearted pics taken, safe in the knowledge you’ve already got some of everyone looking their best.
Have backup plans
A wedding outside can be a magical experience. The ambience, the scenery, the memories. Each plays a part in enhancing the experience of the day. Unfortunately, the weather can help dampen those in more ways than one. Look to have a backup plan where either the ceremony, the reception, the photos or all three can be accommodated under cover whilst still outside. Sailcloth tents for weddings are one option worth considering, as is tipi hire. Both can accommodate large numbers and be adorned with a décor of your choosing to keep the vibe just as you want it. Plus, nobody gets wet!
Alter the timeline
Rain might slow things down. Especially if you’ve decided to hold more than just the ceremony under your tipi or tent. Time will be needed to convert the space from a ceremony to a celebration hub and this might mean plans for the first dance, cake cutting or more have to deviate from your original schedule. Appointing a specialist planner will help you with this, as their experience will allow the focus of these tasks to become theirs and not yours.
Factor in lighting
With rain comes the dark clouds and those sombre occupants of the sky could transform the mood of the wedding a little. Fight back by adding candles or lighting to your reception areas and including them in photos. The warm glow they exude will help add a pop of colour and ambience to your photos and raise the spirits of the guests.
Accept it and embrace it!
You can’t control nature so why let it ruin your big day! Embrace the fact that things may be a little bit different to what was originally planned but it’ll still be a memorable day. With an expert photographer on hand, some truly stunning photos will be captured where the rain just elevates their quality. With the hired tents, you may have inadvertently created an even better ceremony or reception space than you first thought possible, and with all your loved ones close by, you know everybody will be smiling at you no matter the weather.
If you are planning an outdoor wedding or outdoor wedding reception, let us know. Our friendly team of event specialists can equip you with everything to make your day extra special. From the stunning tents, tipis and marquees through to the finer details such as flooring and stages or wedding furniture. Events Under Canvas is your outdoor wedding specialist and ensures the finishing touches to your big day live long in the memory of all who attend.