Outdoor Wedding Receptions: What To Do If The Weather Turns

Rain on your wedding day might be your worst nightmare. As you envision your big day, an enchanting outdoor wedding reception with the sun shining and a gentle breeze is likely part of the picture.

However, Mother Nature can be quite unpredictable, and you will want to be prepared if the weather takes an unexpected turn on the day. While you may be feeling a bit anxious about the weather, there are several options available to ensure your outdoor wedding reception is a memorable and magical event, come rain or shine.

Be Prepared with Umbrellas or Tents

The days leading up to your wedding day are essential; you will be able to check weather reports and plan ahead! Should the clouds begin to gather and raindrops start to fall, having a supply of elegant umbrellas ready can transform a sudden shower into a romantic and intimate setting.

If rain is in the forecast, consider renting a tent or marquee to shield your guests from the elements while maintaining the outdoor ambience.

Tents can add a touch of whimsy and charm to your reception, with billowing fabric and twinkling lights giving an enchanting feel to the celebration.

Delay the Wedding

Now, no one wants to delay their wedding, especially if your vendors like caterers, photographers and stylists are working on a schedule. However, delaying it by an hour isn’t the end of the world.

If the weather forecast predicts a short-lived bout of rain, delaying the start of the reception by an hour could allow time for the weather to clear. Use this time to relax, take a deep breath, and ensure that everything is in place for when the sun begins to shine again. An hour's delay can also create a sense of anticipation and excitement among your guests as they eagerly await the magical celebration to come.

Move Indoors

Having a backup indoor space as a contingency plan for your outdoor reception is always a wise idea. Whether it is a cosy barn, a grand hall or  a charming indoor garden, an alternative reception area can provide a seamless transition in case nature has other plans.

Should the weather take a turn for the worse, moving the reception indoors can create an intimate and cosy atmosphere where your guests can continue to celebrate your love in comfort.

At Nutting Hill Villa, we have a number of indoor areas available, so if your outdoor wedding reception is rained out, we can move your party into one of our stunning reception rooms.

Embrace the Rain

In all the planning and preparation, it's easy to forget the timeless beauty of a wedding celebration in the rain. Instead of letting unexpected weather dampen your spirits, embrace the romance of the moment.

A shower of rain can add a mystical and ethereal quality to your wedding day, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your love story. So if the skies open up, seize the opportunity to dance in the rain and capture breathtakingly romantic photographs that you will cherish for a lifetime.

In the end, while it is important to plan for any eventuality, it is also crucial to keep in mind that unexpected weather can add a touch of magic and unforgettable moments to your wedding day.

Preparing for the possibility of inclement weather, you can rest assured that your outdoor wedding reception will be a beautiful and unforgettable affair, no matter what the weather brings.

Contact Nutting Hill Villa for more information on our indoor and outdoor wedding receptions.