How to Avoid Rain Disasters at Your Wisconsin or Minnesota Wedding
When it comes to wedding planning, few things cause as much anxiety as the potential for rain on your big day—especially if you've dreamed of an outdoor ceremony or reception. In places like Wisconsin and Minnesota, where spring and summer weather can be unpredictable, it’s wise to prepare for the possibility of rain, even if the forecast looks sunny. Luckily, there are several ways you can plan ahead to avoid a rain disaster and still have a beautiful, stress-free wedding.
In this post, we’ll walk you through some proactive steps to keep your wedding day on track, no matter what the weather has in store.
1. Have a Rain Plan (aka Plan B)
No one wants to think about rain on their wedding day, but it’s always best to prepare for the possibility. One of the most important steps in ensuring your wedding goes smoothly is to have a clear Plan B in place.
Indoor Backup: If you're having an outdoor ceremony or reception, make sure you have access to an indoor backup space. Many venues, especially those with outdoor options, also offer indoor rooms or tents that can be used in the event of rain. Be sure to confirm these arrangements with your venue ahead of time.
Weather-Proof Venues: For weddings held at parks or other outdoor public venues, ask the venue coordinator about the availability of nearby covered areas, pavilions, or event halls. Some venues even offer covered ceremony sites for rain emergencies.
Tents or Canopies: If your heart is set on an outdoor ceremony, consider renting a tent or canopy. With so many stylish tent options available, you can still achieve the outdoor vibe while keeping guests dry and comfortable.
2. Monitor the Weather (but Don’t Rely on It Too Much)
It’s natural to check the weather forecast obsessively as your wedding day approaches, especially in unpredictable regions like Minnesota and Wisconsin. However, weather forecasts can change rapidly, so it's best to monitor the forecast, but don’t let it cause unnecessary stress.
Use Multiple Sources: Check the weather using several reliable apps or websites, including local news stations. This will give you a better sense of whether rain is expected and when.
Consider Hiring a Wedding Coordinator: A wedding coordinator can help you stay on top of weather conditions as the day approaches. They’ll help execute your Plan B if needed, coordinating the transition to your backup location quickly and efficiently.
3. Keep Your Guests Comfortable with Smart Rain Accessories
If you’re getting married in Wisconsin or Minnesota during the spring or summer, it’s important to think about your guests’ comfort in the event of rain. Guests don’t want to be soaked, and you want everyone to stay happy throughout the day.
Clear Umbrellas: If there’s a chance of light rain or drizzle, clear umbrellas can be a stylish and functional way to keep your guests dry while still allowing them to enjoy the beauty of your outdoor setting.
Rain Boots and Ponchos: Consider providing guests with simple, inexpensive rain ponchos or stylish, matching rain boots to wear during the ceremony or reception. These can double as a fun and practical party favor!
Waterproof Seating: Ensure that any outdoor seating or benches are waterproof, especially for guests sitting outside during a ceremony. You can add seat cushions or covers that are both weather-resistant and comfortable.
4. Create a Flexible Wedding Timeline
In case of rain, being flexible with your wedding timeline can save you stress. Having a wedding that flows smoothly, even with last-minute changes, is all about preparedness.
Buffer Time: Add some buffer time into your timeline to account for rain delays. If the ceremony or reception needs to be moved indoors or under a tent, you’ll need extra time to rearrange the space and move guests.
Timing Flexibility: Consider pushing back the ceremony time by 30 minutes to an hour if the forecast shows a passing shower. Sometimes, waiting for a short rainstorm to pass can allow you to continue your outdoor celebration.
Reception Adjustments: If rain affects your reception, be prepared to make minor adjustments. For example, an outdoor cocktail hour may need to be moved inside or under a tent. Having a backup plan for entertainment (like games or music) can keep the mood lively.
5. Embrace the Rain (and Make It Fun!)
Sometimes, despite all the preparation, the rain might still come. Instead of letting it ruin the mood, consider turning it into a fun, memorable part of your wedding!
Photos in the Rain: Some of the most romantic and magical wedding photos are taken in the rain. If you’re up for it, grab those umbrellas and let your photographer capture the beauty of you and your guests in the rain. Think about the romantic shots of you walking through puddles, holding hands under an umbrella, or the sparkle of raindrops in the background.
Rainy Day Activities: If your guests are stuck indoors due to rain, keep the energy high with fun indoor activities. Set up a cozy lounge area, have a rainy-day photo booth with props, or offer fun games like trivia or karaoke. Keeping your guests entertained will ensure they remember your wedding fondly.
6. Choose Your Wedding Dress with Weather in Mind
Your wedding dress plays a big part in how comfortable and stylish you’ll feel during your day, rain or shine. If you're planning a wedding in a place where rain could be a possibility, make sure your dress and accessories are weather-appropriate.
Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for a wedding dress made from fabrics that dry quickly and won’t get weighed down in the rain. A dress with fewer layers or a fabric like chiffon or silk will hold up better if the weather turns.
Consider Heels or Flats: While heels might be stunning, they aren’t always ideal for wet outdoor conditions. Think about switching to stylish flats, sandals, or wedges, which can help avoid slipping and are often more comfortable on damp ground.
Protective Outerwear: Invest in a chic, lightweight wedding shawl or jacket to wear during unexpected showers. Not only will it keep you warm, but it will also add a unique touch to your bridal look.
7. Consult with Vendors About Weather Plans
Don’t forget to discuss rain plans with your vendors, especially your photographer, caterer, and florist. By talking to each vendor, you can make sure that they’re all prepared in case the weather takes a turn.
Photographers: Your photographer can advise on how to make the most of rain, including indoor and outdoor photo opportunities. Discuss your preferences for photos taken under a tent, in a garden, or by the water with rain in the background.
Catering: If your reception is moving indoors due to rain, ask your caterer if they can adjust their setup accordingly. Many caterers have experience setting up in different environments and can help things run smoothly.
Florists: Discuss your flower arrangements with your florist, especially if they’re going to be outdoors. Some flowers are more resistant to rain than others, so it’s important to select blooms that won’t wilt or get damaged easily.
Conclusion
While you can’t control the weather, you can control how well you prepare for it. By having a rain plan, keeping your guests comfortable, and being flexible with your timeline, you can avoid the stress of potential rain disasters on your wedding day. And if it does rain? Make the most of it, embrace the moment, and capture the beauty of your rainy wedding day with gorgeous photos and memories you’ll cherish forever.
Ready to start planning your wedding with peace of mind? Contact us today for expert wedding coordination, and let us help you plan for the unexpected!