The Only Thing You Can’t Plan: Weather on Your Wedding Day
- Wendy Kyle
- Oct 13
- 2 min read
The Unpredictability of Wedding Day Weather
Embracing the Unexpected and Focusing on What Truly Matters
When it comes to wedding planning, every detail is considered—venue, flowers, color schemes, seating charts, and more. But there’s one element that remains completely out of our control: the weather. No matter how meticulously you organize, how many apps you check, or how hopeful you are for sunshine, the weather can—and often does—do its own thing. As someone who’s both been a bride caught in a downpour and an officiant at weddings surprised by the elements, I’ve learned that flexibility and perspective are key.
My Own Rain-Soaked Wedding Day
Nothing could have prepared me for the sudden, heavy rain on my own wedding day. Despite all the planning, we ended up moving the entire celebration inside. To top it off, there wasn’t even a dry moment to take couple photos outside. My vision of golden hour portraits was washed away—quite literally. At the time, it felt disappointing. But as the day went on, we laughed, danced, and focused on what really mattered: making a lifelong commitment to each other, surrounded by our loved ones.
When Weather Throws a Curveball: Stories from the Officiant’s View
As an officiant, I’ve witnessed firsthand how unpredictable weather can impact wedding ceremonies. I’ve seen couples use surfboards to make their way through soaking grass because the rain was simply too heavy to walk through. In another ceremony, the skies cleared just long enough for the vows, only to open up again with thunder showers moments later. While these situations may not have been what anyone pictured, they consistently produced some of the most memorable and laughter-filled moments of the events.
Proactive Beats Reactive: Always Have a Backup Plan
Outdoor weddings are stunning, but they come with a big “what if?” Having a backup plan for bad weather is essential. Whether it’s a tent, an indoor room on standby, or simply an umbrella for every guest, being proactive helps minimize stress if conditions change. However, even with the best-laid plans, nature might have another idea. And that’s okay.
What Truly Matters
It’s easy to get swept up in the fantasy of a perfect day, but a wedding is, at its core, about the commitment you are making to your partner. Your vows, your connection, and your love are what make the day truly unforgettable—not the position of the sun or the color of the sky. Some of my favorite wedding memories stem from these weather mishaps, from the scramble for cover to the spontaneous dance-offs inside. The laughter, the togetherness, and the joy far outweighed any disappointment over the weather.
Embrace the Unexpected
So if you’re planning a wedding, by all means, hope for good weather—but plan for anything. Remember, rain or shine, your wedding day will be filled with love, laughter, and memories you’ll cherish forever. The unpredictability of weather is just one more story to add to the rich tapestry of your life together.
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