What To Do If It Rains
Today we’re gonna talk about that unpredictable thing us Michiganders call - the weather.
Many of our couples here at Light Garden Photography are planning an outdoor ceremony. I, myself, dream of getting married under the refreshing open skies, with golden rays of sunshine on my skin, and flowers in my hair…
So needless to say, one of the biggest stressors we face when the wedding day approaches is when that dang weatherman calls for rain. I completely understand how rainy weather may seem like the end of the world after the months of planning you’ve done leading up to this day. But I’m here to assure you, that of the 250+ weddings I’ve photographed… not a single one has been ruined by the rain.
So, let me share a few things I’ve learned over the years to ease your stress about an unideal weather forecast...
(photo taken during a light sprinkle)
1. Do. Not. Panic.
Don’t check your weather app every hour on the hour, don’t loose sleep over it the night before your big day, and DO NOT under any circumstances, let it break your spirit. Here in Michigan the weather doesn’t scare us! We’re tough, and your guests are too. We know what it’s like to experience snow, rain, and sun all in the same 24 hours. So if it looks like a little rain may pass through on your wedding day… have faith that it’s nothing you and your loved ones can’t handle.
2. Stay Positive!
I’m sure you’ve heard this before… but cloudy skies make for the BEST photos. The reason for this is rainclouds diffuse and soften that harsh, midday sunlight that makes us all squint and sweat. I’d prefer clouds in the sky over blazing hot, blue skies for your photos any day. We can truly photograph anywhere when it’s cloudy instead of being limited to the shade or that hour before sunset. Secondly, most Michigan rainclouds are quick to come and go. Which is also a positive because a quick rain on a hot summer day cools things down for guests, AND refreshes all those flower arrangements you’ve decorated your alter with. Win, win!
(photo taken after a huge summer downfall)
3. Be Flexible
Most of the time when you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, it’s not on as strict of a schedule as it may be at a church or other formal ceremony sites. If you see some dark clouds rolling through… wait a bit before you make the call to switch to your indoor backup plan. They may just pass right through and you can still have the outdoor ceremony of your dreams. In the meantime, entertain your guests indoors with games, or better yet - drinks! Also, we can be flexible when we step outside for photos. Maybe it starts to rain when originally planned to do outdoor photos with your bridal party. No biggie. We’ll find a spot indoors with beautiful window light, or maybe an overhang. Then, if the sun peeks through during reception revealing a gorgeous sunset, well grab the gang and head out for a few more photos then. We’ll make it work!
4. Use Clear Umbrellas
Getting all dolled up with hair and makeup is no easy task. So it if does call for rain, preserve your look with a clear umbrella. Why a clear umbrella? Because the light can still pass through it when we’re out taking photos. Dark or colorful umbrellas cast shadows or strange colored light around when what we really want is that soft, cloudy light. I carry one in my trunk at all times too, so not to worry. We’ll pose you up with an umbrella until we’re just about ready, and I’ll have our second shooter remove the umbrella for the final shot. I even like to take a few photos of you and your honey all snuggled up under that umbrella. It’s totally cozy!
So there we have it friends. Four ways you can beat the weather and be your own sunshine. :)
As always, thank you so much for being here with us!
