As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen my fair share of rainy wedding days. It’s the one thing about your wedding day that you genuinely can’t control especially living in the UK. I’ve photographed dry weddings in November and torrential weddings in August. And while no couple hopes for rain, it doesn’t have to ruin your day—or your photos. In fact, some of the most memorable and intimate wedding shots happen in the rain. Here’s how to prepare for a wet wedding day, what to bring, and how to make the most of it.
Planning Ahead: What to Consider Before the Big Day
1. Choose a Venue with a Backup Plan
If your ceremony or reception is outdoors, ask your venue about their rain contingency plan. Do they have an indoor alternative? Is there a covered area that can still allow for beautiful photos? Can you make the decision on the morning of the wedding? Ensure that the plan is clear and practical so that last-minute changes don’t cause unnecessary stress.
2. Speak to Your Photographer About Rain-Friendly Locations
Talk to your photographer about covered or indoor locations that still offer great lighting and backdrops. Some venues have large windows or sheltered areas that can provide natural light while keeping you dry.
3. Time Your Photos Carefully
Rain showers can be unpredictable, but in my experience they also tend to come and go. If possible, be prepared to dash outside so you can take advantage of dry spells. As your photographer, I always keep an eye on the weather. Of course you may decide that you don’t care about the rain and instead want to embrace it as part of your wedding day… in which case remember to bring your wellies!
4. Inform Your Guests
If your wedding has any outdoor elements, make sure guests know to dress accordingly. You might include a note in your invitations or wedding website suggesting umbrellas and waterproof footwear.
5. Group Photos Indoors
If it’s raining after your ceremony, your photographer can easily do your family formal photos indoors, whilst the drinks reception takes place. And although couple photos are nicer outside, as you have a much greater variety of backdrops, I have occasionally done these indoors when necessary.
What to Buy for a Rainy Wedding
1.Umbrellas
Transparent or white umbrellas photograph beautifully because they let in light while still keeping you dry. I always have a large white golfing umbrella in the car for my couple. You can of course buy umbrellas that match your colour theme. Try Jollybrolly for their amazing range. Buy several so the bridal party can use them too. You could also consider hiring them instead.
2. Waterproof Footwear or Shoe Covers
If your wedding dress is long, no one will see your shoes—so consider wellie boots or trainers for outdoor photos. For grooms and groomsmen, leather shoes can be protected with a waterproof spray.
3. Towels and Extra Socks
Having a stash of small towels will help with drying off wet hands and faces. Extra socks for the groom and groomsmen can be a lifesaver.
4. Hair and Makeup Essentials
Rain can cause makeup to smudge and hair to frizz. Consider waterproof mascara, setting spray, and extra hairpins to keep everything in place. And a hairdryer in case you get really wet.
5. Heaters and Blankets
Perhaps not to buy heaters and blankets, but certainly to organise or make sure that the venue can provide them.
Traditions Around Rain on Your Wedding Day
Many cultures see rain on a wedding day as a blessing. In Hindu tradition, rain represents cleansing and growth, symbolizing a strong marriage. In some European traditions, rain is thought to bring prosperity and fertility. However, if you’re worried about rain, there’s a wedding trend of burying a sausage in the garden to ward off the rain! I’ve had lots of brides do this in the past couple of years. It usually comes up as an amusing anecdote in the speeches, but as to whether it works I really couldn’t comment!
Positives and Negatives of a Rainy Wedding
Positives:
- Soft Lighting for Photos: Overcast skies provide soft, even lighting, avoiding harsh shadows that can happen on sunny days.
- Sunny evenings: Often if it rains all day, you get a lovely evening.
- Unique and Romantic Atmosphere: There’s something undeniably intimate about a wedding in the rain.
- Fewer Crowds: If you’re taking photos in a public space, fewer people are likely to be around.
- A memorable day: A rainy wedding day can be more memorable for your guests, something that you all talk about for years to come.
Negatives:
- Potential Discomfort: Cold or damp conditions can be uncomfortable for you and your guests.
- Limited Outdoor Activities: Lawn games, outdoor receptions, or certain photo locations might not be usable.
- Extra Planning Required: You’ll need to think ahead about logistics to avoid last-minute stress.
Final thoughts
A rainy wedding day is not the disaster many couples fear. With preparation and the right mindset, it can actually lead to some of the most beautiful, unique, and emotional moments of your wedding. Work with your suppliers, embrace the weather, and trust your photographer to capture the magic of the day—rain or shine.
Are you getting married? I’d love to photograph your wedding! Pop over to my portfolio to see more of my work or contact me to check my availability for your wedding date.
