Planning to have an outdoor wedding? Whether it’s in Seattle or Phoenix, I’m here to help you prep for any weather-related concerns that might arise.

FIRST and foremost: Lock-in your mindset. If you want a weather-worry free day, then you might need to consider an indoor venue or a venue that has capacity to move indoors at short notice. If you’re dying for an outdoor wedding (I mean seriously, they’re gorgeous), then the next step is to be at peace with the reality that there are things outside of your control. Take the couple pictured above, for example. They had this gorgeous ceremony set up, but the rain was torrential up until almost ceremony time. They made the call to adjust and move the ceremony into the reception tent. It looked different than anticipated, but because they remained at peace and open to change they were able to enjoy the day exactly as it was.

SECOND: Have a backup plan. I know we all want things to go exactly as we plan them. We spend lots of time and money on our wedding days. I understand! But because weather is unpredictable (even where I live in Arizona) it is essential to have a back up plan. Some people opt for having a tent at the ready. Others choose a venue that can house the ceremony inside. Others simply choose to embrace the elements and prepare the scene with umbrellas for guests! Whatever your plan is, just be sure to have one!

THIRD: Hand off the decision making. It’s your wedding day for goodness sake! You deserve to give the details over to somebody else so that you get to be fully present on your day. In advance of the wedding, ensure that your vendors have authority to make decisions on your behalf. Trust that they not only understand the industry, but also that they have your absolute best interest at heart. We all want you to have your best day ever! So, whether you have a wedding planner, a same day coordinator, a family friend, etc., hand off the executive decision making to them. Then, leave the rest to your vendors. We’ve got you, boo!

FOURTH: Trust your photographer and videographer. We’ve been here, we’ve done this! During your wedding day, I’m focused on so many elements of photography and serving you. I’m constantly checking location of the sun, the best lighting for different shots throughout the day, and stalking you so I can snag the small, sweet moments. Even though we will head into wedding day with clear plans (ahem, see above), there are often adjustments that need to be made. Trust that your photographer (preferably me), will find the correct location for different photos based on the weather, lighting, size of group, and of course, your desires. For example on this wedding day, we planned to do wedding party and family photos at the ceremony site. Because it was a torrential downpour, we adjusted and sent the whole group into the location’s barn!

LASTLY: Set the tone. Every family member, guest, and wedding party person are so vastly different. You already know! Your vendors are happy to step in and calm people down, it’s part of our job. But it is so helpful for your own peace of mind if you set the tone in advance. For example, if it starts raining while you’re getting your makeup on and your MOH is beginning to panic, simply make an announcement: “Hey everybody can you come here for a second? I know it’s raining, and that’s okay. We have a plan and a backup plan. We fully trust our vendors and have put people in charge to make game-day decisions. I want you guys to be able to just enjoy the day with me, whatever that brings. So, let’s leave the rain out there and keep enjoying time together in here.” You get to set the tone with your people, and I promise it will make your day so much more fun!

I’m currently booking 2023 weddings, and filling up fast! Head to the contact form on my website so we can chat about your wedding needs and desires. Let’s make your wedding day, your best day yet!

As always, I’m so glad you’re here!