Rain, Rain, Go Away
Rain, rain, go away, come again another day. That children’s rhyme is every couples’ wish as their wedding day approaches. But no amount of planning and hoping is going influence the weather, so we must have plans that allow the wedding day to proceed gracefully, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Weather has already been a significant issue with ceremonies this year. Multiple April snowstorms caused many couples to scramble. Weather has been a significant factor in all three of the last ceremonies I officiated. One ceremony was moved into an air conditioned space due to high heat, one was moved indoors due to rain, and for one we braved the high heat and humidity, keeping the ceremony outdoors as planned, but it was awfully uncomfortable.
It seems our weather is getting more unpredictable year to year, with high heat, strong storms and rain caused by unstable systems happening more frequently. Occasionally a couple tells me, “If it rains, people just need to bring umbrellas.” That’s not a practical response if the rain is wind driven, or if lightning is involved. It’s not reasonable to expect people to sit on wet chairs. Electrical sound equipment or valuable instruments cannot be used in wet conditions. Unity ritual props will be ruined sitting in the rain. And do you really want to spend the rest of the day in sodden clothes?
While a sun-dappled ceremony with a light breeze blowing in 72 degree weather may be your dream, it really is essential that you have a plan in place in case of inclement weather. Many reception facilities offer an indoor ceremony alternative these days. Make sure that you know when you will need to make the decision about an indoor or outdoor ceremony, and be ready to do so.
Indoor ceremonies in climate controlled spaces allow you and your guests to be comfortable, to focus on the significance of the moment, and to be ready to celebrate all day long. So if the rain (or heat or snow) comes, go ahead and sing, “Rain, rain, go away…” but be ready with a great indoor alternative and you’ll have great memories of your ceremony and your day.