1 month ago
5 
Dear Alison,
I am getting married in a month and despite choosing to go abroad to try and guarantee sunny weather, rain is forecast!
The whole event is supposed to be outdoors: we are saying our vows on the beach then having our reception at an open-air venue.
My fiancée and I were fine risking a bit of drizzle as it should still be warm, but the forecast is now saying there could be ‘unseasonal heavy downpours’. Our venue does have a smaller, indoor area but it’s not that nice aesthetically – and as it stands, we don’t have anywhere else to actually say ‘I do’.
As we are still a while out, should I just hope the weather forecast changes? Should our wedding party just tough it out? Or should I rearrange everything?
It would mean changing our venue, transport and even maybe my dress. I feel a bit sick thinking about it.
Please help!
Naraya
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Dear Naraya,
It must be so exciting for you that your wedding is fast approaching.
You are still a month away, so the weather forecast could change a lot before then.
Weather predictions, especially this far in advance, aren’t always reliable. That said, it’s wise to have a Plan B in place so you’re not left panicking if the forecast is accurate.
You must talk to your venue as soon as possible. Ask them about their contingency plan for rain. I am sure they will have an alternative in place.
If their indoor space is not appealing, could it be spruced up with decorations, candles, or lighting? Sometimes, creativity can make a big difference. You could speak to the venue about whether they have any props in a store room that can be used – many do.
If not, you could consider asking whether you could deliver some bits and bobs to the venue, to make it feel a bit more ‘you’.
I appreciate your venue is abroad, which limits the options you have to visit it, but the owners will be more than willing to help make sure your day is perfect. And if money is no object, you could perhaps rope in a local wedding planner who can make sure everything goes smoothly?
If you are unable to visit before the wedding, you can arrange a Zoom call so they can show you backup options.
If the venue does not have a tent or marquee, consider hiring one if the space allows it. Renting a high-quality tent could be an ideal compromise between keeping the outdoor vibe and staying dry.
Another option is to find an alternative venue for the ceremony. It might be worth checking nearby locations to see what is available.
A hotel with stunning views, a picturesque church, or even a beautiful indoor hall could be a lovely and dry backup plan.
Although, of course, many of these alternatives would come at an extra cost.
If you decide to embrace the elements, make it part of the experience, and be well prepared. Stylish umbrellas, cosy blankets, or even fun wellies for the bridal party could turn the event into a charming, memorable one.
Remember to remind all guests that the wedding will be outside and ask them to dress accordingly, especially if the unseasonal heavy rain does appear.
Some of the most stunning wedding photos feature stormy skies, romantic raindrops, and glowing lights reflecting on wet surfaces. Rain on your wedding day is even considered good luck in many cultures!
I completely understand your concerns. My husband and I have our own wedding venue and use the outdoor space as much as possible, which can certainly feel like a challenge in Scotland!
We always have a Plan B in place and usually work it out on the day as the weather is unpredictable.
Rain is always an issue throughout each wedding season; even the summer months are not excluded. Our backup plan depends on the forecast and the size of the wedding.
A smaller wedding could still be held outside and sheltered under the trees. For larger weddings, we are lucky to have a function room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors; even when it rains, we open them. The guests are protected from the rain, but it still gives the feel of an outdoor wedding.
We also have a stretch tent we have used before, even in late Autumn, to provide that outdoor vibe and protect the guests from the elements.
Your venue will be able to guide you on the different contingencies they can offer. You certainly won’t be the first couple to have experienced an unexpected downpour.
Having a backup that you feel happy with will take away stress and let you truly enjoy your day, rain or shine.
Remember that the day is about you, your fiancée, and your love. No amount of rain can dampen that!
Alison
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