Embracing the Rain: How to Make Your Rainy Day Wedding Unforgettable

Magaly Barajas, Southern California wedding photographer

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wedding

Rain was in the cards for Steph and Correy’s beautiful San Juan Capistrano Mission wedding, but that didn’t stop them from celebrating or creating photo magic with me! Rain on your wedding day may seem like a recipe for disaster, but it can actually add a unique touch to your special day. Like Steph and Correy, I’ll reveal a few ways to embrace the weather and make your rainy-day wedding an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a light drizzle or a torrential downpour, I’ll help you navigate the weather and create a magical atmosphere for your ceremony and reception.

Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits and ruin your special day. Instead, embrace the rain and create a wedding that stands out from the crowd. Get ready to say “I do” in style, rain or shine!

Prepping for a Possible Rainy Day Wedding

Planning a wedding is a momentous task on its own, but planning a wedding that may be affected by rain requires extra consideration. Here are some tips to help you plan a memorable rainy-day wedding (especially if you’re getting married in the spring or fall):

1. Choose a venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces: When selecting a venue, opt for one that offers both indoor and outdoor spaces. This way, you’ll have the flexibility to move your ceremony or reception indoors if the weather takes a turn for the worse. 

2. Have a backup plan: Even if you choose a venue with indoor spaces, it’s still important to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Consider renting a tent or marquee to provide shelter so you can still enjoy an outdoor atmosphere while staying dry. Discuss your backup plan with your venue and vendors ahead of time to ensure everyone is on the same page.

3. Communicate with your guests: If possible, send your guests an inclement weather update via your wedding website so they know everything is still on and backup plans are in place. Providing clear information will help your guests come prepared and alleviate any concerns about the weather.

4. Provide umbrellas (optional): Instead of seeing rain as an inconvenience, turn it into an opportunity to create a unique wedding theme. Provide umbrellas in your wedding colors for guests to use, which would make for cute and memorable photos! 

Note: Clear bubble umbrellas are inexpensive and add to the polished luxury look without obstructing your faces or the view.

5. Adjust your timeline: Rainy weather may require some adjustments to your wedding day timeline. Allow extra time for transportation and getting ready to account for potential delays caused by the weather. Work closely with your vendors to ensure everyone is on the same page and prepared for any necessary adjustments. If you’re hoping for outdoor photos, we could slightly rearrange the schedule to make that happen when the rain lets up. 

Rainy Day Wedding Photography Tips

Rainy weather can create a romantic and dreamy atmosphere for your wedding photos. In fact, gray skies often serve as the perfect lightbox for dreamy portraits! Here are some tips to capture the magic of a rainy-day wedding:

1. Embrace the rain: Instead of trying to avoid it, embrace the rain and use it to your advantage. Raindrops can add a whimsical touch to your photos, creating a unique and romantic ambiance. I’ll work with you to find creative ways to incorporate the rain into your shots, such as capturing reflections on wet surfaces or using umbrellas as props (and keeping you dry, too).

2. Find indoor photo locations: If the rain becomes too heavy or you simply want a change of scenery, have a backup plan for indoor photo locations. Look for interesting architecture or indoor spaces with lots of natural light to provide a beautiful backdrop for your photos. These indoor locations can offer a different aesthetic and add variety to your wedding album. (Think: magazine-worthy editorial wedding portraits.)

3. Lighting considerations: Rainy weather can create soft, diffused lighting that is perfect for capturing stunning images. However, it’s important to discuss lighting considerations beforehand. I may need to adjust my equipment or use additional lighting to ensure your photos turn out beautifully. I will guide you on how to make the most of the available light.

Rain on Your Wedding Day? Don’t Fret!

Like Steph and Correy’s incredible wedding day, yours will be, too—especially if we do some prep work. Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll be happy to help you determine the best plan for your day.

Connect with Magaly

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Vendors:

Photography: @magalybarajasphoto

Coordinator: @xoxo_amandab

Hair and Makeup: @sassygalbeauty

Floral: @tustinflorist

Caterer: @jasonscateredevents

Cake: @heidelbergpastryshoplh

Music/DJ: @extremedjservice

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