What if it rains on my wedding day?
‘What if it rains on my wedding day?’ is a question that pops up frequently in the run up to a wedding. In this short article, I aim to assure couples that rainy day weddings can be a thing of magic.
At this Kirknewton House Stables wedding in Scotland, the bridal party look up anxiously as the dark clouds above threaten rain.
Here in the UK where the weather is known for being unreliable and unpredictable, the question “what if it rains on my wedding day?” often pops up in the lead up to a wedding. As a wedding photographer who specialises in documenting the candid moments of a couple's special day, I have often witnessed the panic that can set in when the weather takes an unexpected turn, and rain starts to fall. However, I am here to reassure you that rain on your wedding day can actually enhance the beauty and storytelling of your celebrations. Let me explain.
Rest assured the rain won’t stop your wedding suppliers from smiling. We’re all pretty much used to it here in the UK!
One of my favourite images taken in the rain and a most ingenious method of keeping the bride dry!
When grey clouds roll in and raindrops start to fall, instead of letting it dampen your spirits, embrace the magic that it can bring. Rainy wedding days have a unique charm that can add a new dimension to your photos and create memories that stand out. The laughter as you dash for cover, the shared umbrella keeping you close, and the way the raindrops sparkle in the background all make for stunning and romantic images.
Furthermore, rain can provide opportunities for creativity and spontaneity. Embracing the weather challenges can lead to unexpected and delightful moments that truly capture the essence of your relationship. A couple that dances in the rain or shares a kiss under an umbrella exude a sense of romance and adventure that is timeless.
Perhaps twice in my career have I been lucky enough to capture a newly wed couple and a rainbow like this.
Moreover, rain on your wedding day is said to symbolize good luck and new beginnings. So, rather than letting the weather dictate the mood of your day, choose to smile, laugh, and enjoy every moment. Your positive attitude will set the tone for the entire celebration and create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your guests.
Before I began my wedding photography career I started off taking pictures of our landscapes. From my experience, rain makes the landscape come to life, the grass look greener, the trees more colourful and the skies more interesting. Let us also not forget the magic that sometimes occurs moments after a heavy rainfall when the sun bursts through the clouds once more. Yes, you guessed it, a rainbow.
I photographed this wedding in Dumfriesshire in Scotland. Here the wedding party were very well prepared.
If your guests can pull off smiles like these in the pouring rain then you can too!
A few rainy day wedding tips
I know no matter what anyone tells you, you’re going to check the forecast. So go ahead and check the forecast, just don’t obsess over it. Rain is harmless, skin is waterproof, run with it.
Knowing you’ve got a high chance of rain why not accessorise for it? Pack a few brollies knowing you’ll want to roam the grounds of your venue at some point for photographs. Wear your flowery wellington boots for a whacky contrast to the white of your dress for example. the photos will look great and you’ll have fun at the same time.
Don’t stress about your guests. They’re grown ups too, they’ll know if there’s a chance of rain and plan accordingly too, so relax.
Don’t stress about the dress. This one can make or break your wedding photos, especially couple shots if you’ve requested some later in the day. The dress will inevitable get splashed with rainfall or perhaps a little muddy. Let it go, smile and carry on. If you’re stressing over your dress, you’re not living in the moment, nor are you relaxed and giving your partner your full attention. Believe it or not the stress will carry through into your wedding images too. If you’re relaxed, smiling and having fun, that’s what you’ll look back on in your wedding photographs.
THE SHOW MUST GO ON! It’s so true. Your day will fly by in a flash, so embrace every little part of it. You’ve planned the best wedding, your loved ones are all present and you’ve hired the best wedding suppliers to ensure your day runs flawlessly. Now it’s time to relax and enjoy your wedding celebrations.
The UK weather can be unpredictable
How many times have we been out and about during our regular lives and its felt like we’ve experienced all the seasons in one day? We’ve all said it or heard someone say it, right? Wedding days can be the same. The next two images were taken at a wedding in North Yorkshire that started off glorious, and took a turn for the worse midway through. I’m guessing they were taken about an hour apart from one another.
Glorious sunshine and a day we all dream of.
Same wedding and the heavens opened on us! Thankfully, it was predicted and guests were armed with brollies!
A bride at her Doxford Hall wedding rocking a leather biker’s jacket whilst the groom carries a brolly.
What if it rains on my wedding day?
In conclusion, as you plan your wedding day, remember that rain is simply nature's way of adding a touch of magic to your love story. Embrace the rain, let go of your worries, and trust that your day will be filled with beautiful moments and unforgettable memories. And remember, a little rain only adds to the charm and magic of your special day.
I hope this short post has helped you in some way. Wedding days come and go so fast, so embrace every moment and go with the flow.
