What If It Rains On Your Elopement Day
No matter how carefully you plan your elopement, no matter how many times you check and double-check every last detail, there will always be that one nagging question you won’t be able to shake: What if it rains on your elopement day?
Look, I get it! It’s natural to be anxious about the unexpected happening and having some unplanned-for rainy weather throws you for a loop. But I’ve photographed enough absolutely amazing rainy-day elopements to say with confidence that you have nothing to worry about.
Part of planning an adventure elopement is accepting that not everything will go exactly according to plan — and that’s a good thing! Nature is wild and uncontrollable, and that’s worth celebrating. Even in the rain, your elopement will be as romantic and unforgettable as you always dreamed.
To help you out, I’ve put together this list of rainy day elopement tips so that your special day will be completely perfect, no matter the weather!
Embrace The Unexpected
The first step when planning for a rainy day elopement is to leave behind your worries that rain might ruin your special day. Your elopement is going to be amazing no matter what, and it’s important to shift your mindset about unexpected rainy weather.
Rain is not something to be afraid of, it’s just another way to enhance your elopement. It’s quite often a positive and exciting addition to your elopement! Rain can add romance, drama, and uniqueness to your elopement.
One of the reasons why rain can make your elopement even more magical is that there are so many romantic ways to celebrate a rainy elopement. Rain on your elopement day might not be what you originally envisioned, but it can actually make your celebration even more magical and memorable. Imagine the gentle patter of raindrops creating a serene, romantic atmosphere as you exchange vows. There’s something undeniably enchanting about the misty air and the soft, diffused light that only a cloudy day can provide.
Instead of worrying about the weather, embrace it! Rain brings an element of spontaneity and adventure, making your elopement truly one-of-a-kind. Plus, you’ll have an unforgettable story to tell — a testament to your love’s resilience and excitement for life’s unpredictable moments.
Get Creative For Some Truly Awesome Wedding Photos!
Rainy weather also adds a totally amazing atmosphere to your elopement photos. Think of the dramatic, moody skies serving as a breathtaking backdrop against glistening landscapes. Raindrops on leaves and the natural fog hugging the mountain peaks add a layer of depth and texture that’s impossible to replicate on a sunny day. I always encourage my couples to really do their own thing and get creative with their rainy day elopement photos!
Why not grab a clear umbrella and cuddle close beneath it, allowing your photographer to capture sweet, intimate moments? Not to mention, raindrops caught mid-air and windswept hair add movement and authenticity to your photos, making them feel raw, real, and passionately romantic.
Prepare For The Rain & Have A Plan
It never hurts to have an elopement backup plan for rain! Take some time to think about how your elopement schedule might change if some unexpected showers arrive. That way, if it starts to rain on the day of your elopement, you’ll be able to adapt seamlessly, and just effortlessly switch into “rain mode.”
How To Prepare For Bad Weather On Your Wedding Day
A little preparation can go a long way in turning a potentially stressful situation into an unforgettable adventure. Here are a few tips for how to prepare for bad weather on your wedding day so that if the rain comes, you’re ready to fully embrace it:
Check the weather forecast: Start by keeping an eye on the weather forecast in the days leading up to your elopement, so you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected showers. If you know that there’s a good chance of rain on your elopement day, you’ll be able to dress accordingly and make necessary alterations to your elopement plans in advance.
Plan for rain-friendly attire: Bringing clothing appropriate for rainy-day weather is crucial for making the most of a rainy-day elopement. Think waterproof shoes or stylish boots, cozy wraps, or even a chic jacket to keep you warm and comfortable.
Bring the right accessories: Don’t forget to pack some fun, rain-specific accessories to really make your rainy-day elopement unique and unforgettable. Cute items like clear umbrellas or colorful rain boots can add charm and personality to your pictures and kick them up to a whole other level!
Have A Backup Plan!
When planning your elopement, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Having a backup plan doesn’t mean you’re giving up on your dream elopement — it just means you’re ready to roll with whatever the day brings. Plus, it can actually add to the fun and spontaneity of the experience! Knowing you’ve got a plan in place for rainy weather takes the pressure off and lets you fully enjoy the moment, rain or shine.
Whether you end up underneath a romantic pavilion listening to the raindrops or celebrating under a clear sky, you’ll be prepared to embrace the day with joy and excitement. By thinking ahead and choosing versatile locations, you’ll set yourself up for a stress-free and unforgettable elopement.
Here are some ways you can create a backup plan for rainy weather:
Consider a flexible location: When choosing your location, consider places that offer some flexibility, like scenic spots with nearby sheltered areas or venues with both indoor and outdoor options.
Have an alternate indoor location: Think about scenic spots with nearby sheltered areas, like a charming gazebo in a garden, a covered overlook with stunning views, or a cozy cabin nestled in the woods. Venues with both indoor and outdoor options are also fantastic choices because they allow you to adapt quickly without sacrificing the beauty of your surroundings. This way, no matter what the weather brings, you’ll still have a gorgeous spot to say “I do.”
Embrace the rain fully: For couples with adventurous spirits, one of the most spontaneous and epic things you can do is fully lean into the rainy weather and plunge headlong into the downpour! You’ll exchange your vows in the heart of the elements, surrounded by the one-of-a-kind atmosphere and natural beauty that only the rain can bring.
Rain Or Shine, I’m By Your Side!
If you’re considering an elopement in Washington and are looking for a Washington elopement photographer (and destinations) then we should definitely have a chat! Rain or shine, I’ll be by your side every step of the way to make sure your special day is completely perfect and unforgettable. Reach out any time and together we can work together to create the elopement of your dreams, no matter what the weather throws our way!
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
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