Don’t let rain ruin your perfect outdoor Indiana wedding ceremony!

by White Willow Farms – A Timeless Indiana Wedding Venue

What if it rains?

“What if it rains?” is one of the #1 questions we are asked on venue tours by couples who are hoping for an outdoor Indiana wedding ceremony. 

If an outdoor ceremony is on your wish-list, how do you prepare for the worst – bad weather?

1. Don’t worry about what you can’t control.

In the end, there are things in the wedding planning process that you can’t control – and weather is definitely one of them.

Make informed choices in the planning process about “what happens in case of rain” – and then don’t worry about what you can’t control on your wedding day. Just relax and make the most of one of the most memorable days of your lives. At the end of the day you’ll be married and that’s what’s important!

2. Don’t be afraid to get a little wet.

Bring an extra pair of shoes and get outside as soon as there is a break in the rain! Luckily, even on rainy days Mother Nature usually takes a break for a bit.

Check with your photographer, videographer, or venue to see if they have any pretty umbrellas you can use. If not, we think these are a great option on Amazon.

3. Ask your photographer and videographers to see examples of rainy day weddings.

It’s ideal to select a photographer and videographer with experience with less than ideal weather situations. Capturing all of the moments of your wedding day beautifully is already a fast paced process. Mix in a new photographer (especially without a qualified second shooter) and a chance of rain, and stress cracks can show quickly. 

When examining a photographers or videographers portfolio ask for examples of indoor and rainy day photography. Do they know how to position couples indoors to take advantage of outdoor light shining in? Do they have a great handle on flash or off camera lighting if it becomes necessary? 

It’s best not to just look at outdoor natural lighting examples when selecting your vendors. Ask (nicely of course), for examples of situations where the lighting and location was less than ideal. A great photographer or videographer can literally make any situation work.

4. Work with your vendors.

Confirm with your vendors to see how they work on a rainy day. Will your live DJ or musicians still perform? Will your florist need to reconsider their wedding flower ideas?  Will caterers need to serve or setup food differently?  Make a rain plan with your venue ahead of time.  The important thing to know is that you’ve hired a group of professionals – work with them and trust they will deliver a memorable wedding.

5. Consider a flexible timeline.

If a torrential downpour looks likely right at the time of your vows, consider delaying the outdoor ceremony or moving guests indoors. Perhaps you may need to consider going immediately from vows to reception and skipping cocktail hour if rain is approaching. When planning, allow the schedule some flex room. It’ll keep your guests out of the rain and your stress to a minimum. A little adjustment goes a long way!