Rainy Day Weddings
Of all the things to worry about in the days leading up to your wedding, the weather shouldn’t be one of them. And, despite what Alanis Morissette has to say on the matter, the good news is that rain on your wedding day is traditionally considered a good omen, and can actually be great for your wedding photos.
Rainy-Day-Weddings
Imagine walking through the street surrounded by a light drizzle. Your groom has you snuggled tight under the protection of an umbrella. You share a laugh and a kiss and then you realize this is one of the most wonderful moments of your lives. This scene is the foundation for incredibly romantic imagery. As a professional photographer, I love rainy day weddings. Sunbeams breaking through the clouds, asphalt that turns into paths of silver and misty air hanging in the distance. These make for incredible backdrops, scenery you can’t get with a clear blue sky. Some of the most beautiful images of my career have been created on wet, cloudy days. There can be challenges when dealing with precipitation, but with some simple preparations, a bit of rain won’t dampen your big day. Here’s what you need to know to embrace the drizzle and love your rainy day wedding.
Outdoor Ceremony
Unless the weather report is calling for a torrential downpour, a bit of rain doesn’t have to chase you inside. Let your guests know about your rain-orshine plans well in advance and ask them to come prepared for the elements. A ceremony in the rain with your guests under umbrellas can be incredibly beautiful and it’s something that people will talk about for years.
Photo Locations
There are many covered outdoor locations that will keep you dry while allowing you to get thoseoutdoor backgrounds that you want for your photographs. Covered porches, courtyards and gazebos may work well, depending on the number of people in your pictures. Talk to your photographer about locations near your ceremony and reception that you can use for the family, wedding party and couple formals.
Towels
Have a selection of towels handy for your groomsmen towipe down chairs for guests before the ceremony or foryour wedding party to sit on during photos.
Shower Curtain
A clear shower curtain makes for a perfect ground cover for photos during or after rainfall. You can let your dress down over the top of it and not have to worry about it getting dirty. Just remember to give your shoes a wipe before you step onto it. Look for clear shower curtains at a Dollar store.
Rubber Boots
Wet feet and heels are a bad combination. Since you rarely see your shoes in photos during the formals, come prepared with a pair of rubber boots that will allow you to move easily from location to location without getting your feet wet. Remind your photographer to get a few shoe shots if they’re important to you and remember, cute rubber boots also make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Umbrellas
Look for a classic style umbrella with a U handle, as these look best in photos. Black umbrellas work well for landscape images because they don’t draw attention away from your dress. White umbrellas are great for the close-ups, because they diffuse the light instead of casting shadows on you and your groom. Pick up a few of each, enough for you and your wedding party. Or, ask your photographer if they have umbrellas you can borrow.
