Everyone’s nightmare is rain in the forecast on your wedding day for any couple who is planning an outdoor wedding. Especially with the increased popularity of outdoor weddings, rain can completely derail your carefully thought-out plans. But rainy wedding days can have a unique magic of their own.

If you look at the weather a few weeks before your big day and see that there’s a chance of rain, here are a few tips to make sure you’re prepared to weather the storm and still have the wedding of your dreams.

1. Don’t Panic!

I know this is easier said than done, but it’s really the first step. You have to remember that your wedding will be great regardless of the weather because you’ll have all the people you love coming together in one place, you get to marry the love of your life, and no one can control the weather.

2. Understand Your plan B Options.

Having a rain plan might seem obvious, but make sure that you talk to your venue and wedding planner ahead of your wedding day to ensure that you have a backup plan in case it rains. Your venue will likely have recommendations on how to proceed if there is rain, and your wedding planner will be able to help you execute updated plans.

If you intend to have an outdoor ceremony, decide on an alternate location for bad weather or perhaps reach out for a tent quote.

3. Purchase some clear or black umbrellas.

Umbrellas and rain gear won’t ruin your photos—trust me! There are types of clear umbrellas you can purchase, or you can pick up some classic black umbrellas with wooden handles. Both will look good! Make sure to buy enough to cover each person in your wedding party.

These are my favorite clear umbrellas – I bring a handful to each wedding and session just in case. For these specific umbrellas, one will work for two people.

4. Order a pair of rain boots to wear with your wedding Attire!

Whether they match your color scheme or have an embroidered monogram, a cute pair of rain boots can be a real lifesaver! They’ll help you stay dry as we move from location to location throughout the day and will be a great accessory to show off in your photos.

A few of my brides have worn these cute white rain boots!

5. Consider getting a second outfit for the reception.

You probably don’t need extra encouragement to spend more money on wedding attire, but here I am, telling you to buy a second outfit for your wedding day. Think about it: we can get awesome images in the rain while you’re wearing your OG wedding outfits, then you can change for the reception, be dry, and dance the night away! If you’re not comfortable getting wet, then consider buying a rain jacket to wear for a couple of photos outside.

PS. A great place to look for a cute, custom dress is Anomolie.

6. Keep your guests warm and cozy!

Make sure to have warm drinks like coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or apple cider for your guests to enjoy after being outside or walking through the rain. If you know ahead of time that it’s going to be a stormy day, consider having some towels or blankets as well.

The most important thing to remember is that your wedding day isn’t ruined if it rains. If you roll with it, trust your vendors, and stay positive, the rain will enhance the joy of the day and give us opportunities to take some incredibly unique photos.