What to Do If It Rains on Your Wedding Day (Rainy Wedding Tips From a Photographer Who’s Seen It All)

If you’ve checked the forecast and it’s looking a little… uh…biblical, you’re probably spiraling. I see you. And I have some rainy wedding tips for you! Not only do I photograph weddings for a living, but it has rained or snowed at every one of them this year. Let me tell you: rainy days are not the disaster everyone thinks they are. In fact? Some of my favorite wedding days have been soggy, chaotic, and absolutely unforgettable.

Your wedding day isn’t ruined by rain. It’s ruined by your attitude about it.

Let’s talk about how to make the most of the drizzle (or the downpour). Because no matter what the skies are doing, this is still your day!!! We’re not gonna let it lose its shine.

Rain = Romance

Rainy weddings are basically nature’s Instagram filter. The light gets soft and moody. The colors pop. Hair goes windswept in a glorious way. Umbrellas, puddles, billowing veils. It’s all drama. It’s all awesome. Think cinematic…moody…THE NOTEBOOK!

Some of the most intimate, breathtaking photos I’ve taken happened because we had to slow down, snuggle up, and embrace the weather.

It Forces Intimacy (in a Good Way)

You know what happens when the weather turns? People get closer. They laugh more. They share umbrellas, huddle together, and somehow, all the pretenses drop. That connection? That’s what you’re going to remember.

Rain strips away the Pinterest-perfect and replaces it with real, grounded joy.

Backup Plan Brilliance

Okay yeah, let’s put away the flowery language and get real. Let’s get practical. Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:

• Clear umbrellas: always photogenic, always worth it. (Seriously. I keep a trunk full.)
• Extra shoes + socks: wet feet = grumpy people. Dry feet = dancing all night.
• Towels + quick-dry cloths: especially helpful for drying off bouquets, chair backs, or rogue puddle-jumping ring bearers.
• Talk to your venue: they probably have a plan. And it’s probably prettier than you expect.

Embrace the Drama

If you let go of the idea that things have to be perfect, the rain becomes a gift. I’ve had couples laugh through their entire portrait session as we ran to shelter. I’ve seen vows shouted joyfully under umbrellas, and dance floors that turned into cozy, glowing havens while rain drummed on the roof.

Let it be what it is. Let it be yours.

What Matters Doesn’t Change

At the end of the day (rain or shine), you’re marrying your person. The people you love are there, the music is playing, the food is warm, and you’ve got a front-row seat to the most important yes of your life.

Don’t let the weather steal the joy.

Let this be your rally cry:

Your wedding day isn’t ruined by rain. It’s only ruined by your attitude about it.

So bring the umbrella. Bring the energy. Jump in the puddles

And I’ll bring the photos that make you fall in love with your day all over again.

Moving on from rainy wedding tips? Check out my Pinterest board of other wedding day tips!
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