What if it rains on my wedding day?

Posted on: 02/05/2025

No matter what time of year you choose to tie the knot in the UK, you risk rain on your big day. Whether it's April showers, a sudden summer downpour or fine drizzle in autumn. We've just had the driest March for over 60 years in England and Wales, but the nation's variable climate means we can't trust this trend to continue.

But rain on your wedding day doesn't need to put a dampener on the occasion! If you expect the unexpected and prepare, you and your guests will be smiling in all weathers.

Discover what to do if your wedding falls on a rainy day and how to plan so the celebrations can proceed without a hitch.

Embrace it

While the day itself will be one of the happiest in your life, the lead-up to a wedding can be filled with anxiety and stress. Do yourself a favour and don't add the weather to your list of worries! It's beyond your control, so embrace it. Swap visions of soggy dresses and muddy footprints for a joyful movie-magic montage of everyone dancing in the rain!

Have a 'plan B'

Composing a wet-weather 'plan B' is the best way to prepare for rain on your wedding day. This will give you peace of mind in the weeks leading up to the big day and ensure that a bit of water doesn't spoil this once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Plan B is most important if you're planning an outdoor celebration, but should be factored into your arrangements regardless. Tiny details, such as having umbrellas ready to cover guests getting out of cars outside the venue, can make all the difference in ensuring everyone's uninterrupted enjoyment.

Speak to your wedding planner for recommendations on how to alter your plans in the event of rain or discuss options with the venue. Chances are they've managed many wet weddings, so trust in their advice. Simple switches that will go unnoticed, such as putting up a marquee, are all it takes to keep everyone dry!

Speak to your photographer

If it's looking increasingly likely that you're facing a rainy day, you may need to rethink your photos. Ask your photographer to coordinate with the venue staff to identify attractive indoor settings that will act as beautiful backdrops for your wedding pictures. Look at a range of options, from cosy corners ideal for couple shots and larger rooms that can accommodate the entire wedding party.

These indoor photographs can be just as - if not more - atmospheric than outdoor options. Showcase the magic of your F.Hinds engagement ring with a close-up shot of it sparkling in the soft light cast by lamps or candles. Stand on the stairs and let your dress flow down the steps. Have atmospheric silhouette shots taken by windows with beautiful views. Your photographer will be practised in delivering cherished photos whatever the weather, so trust their direction.

Cosy up and get undercover

Too late to get ahead of the game and move your celebrations indoors, or using a venue that can't accommodate all your guests inside? Fear not! You can use the conditions to add a touch of whimsy to your day, which will only make it extra special.

If you're expecting showers, invest in colourful umbrellas for your guests to hold during the ceremony and hand out clear rain ponchos and shoe covers on arrival. Everyone will appreciate the thought, and it will help your guests get into the spirit of the occasion. Ensure blankets or throws are within easy reach during the reception and invite your guests to cosy up while warming up on the dancefloor!

Get expert advice from F.Hinds

Use rain on your wedding day as a reminder of what's most important - embarking on a new journey with your partner and celebrating with your loved ones - and trust us to help you look and feel your best. We can advise on how to present your engagement ring in your indoor photos and recommend complementary jewellery for bridesmaids and the mother-of-the-bride. Our expertise is grounded in decades of experience, and we can help with everything from selection to arranging secure delivery.

We're members of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), so you can have peace of mind knowing that your purchase will align with strict social and environmental standards.