7 Tips for an Outdoor Wedding Rain Plan

You’re planning to tie the knot and have dreamed of a beautiful outdoor wedding under sunny blue skies. But now, rain is in the forecast! First of all, relax. Your wedding day isn’t ruined. A little water has never stopped anyone from saying, “I do.”

But it’s always better to play it safe, so we have rounded up 7 tips for your outdoor wedding rain plan.

Have a Backup Indoor Location

Choose a venue that offers an indoor or covered space along with an outdoor area. That way, if it rains, your wedding location remains the same and you can simply move your ceremony indoors or under the covered space.

Make sure you get this backup plan written into your wedding contract. It will provide you peace of mind, knowing a little rain isn’t going to ruin your day and your guests will be comfortable and dry.

Flexibility Is a Must

Be flexible. If it’s expected to rain late in the day, you can still exchange your vows under the open sky. Just move your reception indoors before the wet weather strikes.

Rent a Tent

Consider renting a tent. A tent is a great fix for the possibility of rain, and it can shield your guests from the sun’s rays and heat. Reserve the tent when you secure your outdoor wedding venue so that you aren’t calling around last minute frantically searching for one.

Prepare Rainy-Day Supplies for Your Guests

Consider supplying some rainy-day supplies to make your guests more comfortable. Popular options include:

• Blankets: Offering blankets is a thoughtful touch, particularly for younger and older guests, ensuring everyone stays cozy if the temperature drops.
• Towels: Have towels handy to dry off seats or for guests to wipe away moisture. Just make sure they're stored in a dry place.
• Ponchos: While not everyone's first choice for wedding attire, rain ponchos can be a practical and budget-friendly option for staying dry. Charmingly display them or designate someone to distribute them as needed. They also make a memorable and interesting photo op.
• Spa Retreat: Take a few minutes before you walk down the aisle to relax and exhale. Treat yourself and your wedding party to a pre-ceremony soak in a hot tub that will drain away jitters and calm nervous energy.
• Heaters: If it rained earlier in the day and its now cool outdoors, have outdoor heaters on hand to keep your guests warm and comfortable.

Plan for outdoor photos

If it’s going to rain, and you’re insistent on outdoor wedding photos, consider scheduling the photo session with your wedding party a day or two before the ceremony. This way, you get beautiful outdoor photos with blue skies without having your hair and makeup ruined. Or you can just embrace the rain and take cool photos of you and your wedding party, “dancing” in the rain with cute umbrellas and rain boots.

Think About Alternative Parking Solutions

Don't overlook parking logistics, especially if your original plan involves an open field. Ensure there's an accessible parking lot or garage access nearby to accommodate guests comfortably in case of rain.

Do Not Stress

Finally, do not stress over the possibility of rain. Many couples begin watching the forecast 10 days in advance and most experienced meteorologists will tell you that forecasts that far in the future aren’t the most accurate or reliable. Wait until a couple of days before your event to decide if you’re going to need to move to plan B.  

And remember, you never know what Mother Nature is going to do. So, remove Mother Nature from the equation. Plenty of couples have had beautiful weddings and receptions despite rainy weather. Instead of dwelling on the weather outside, redirect your attention towards one another. Rain or shine Arpeggio Wedding Entertainment can help you deliver a night to remember.

Tammy has an extensive background in journalism, media relations, social media strategy, marketing, and brand management. She resides in Michigan with her family which includes her two sons and their Goldendoodle, Max. In her free time, she loves to read and travel.