Doesn’t this sound like common sense? Surprisingly, it’s not something that many couples fully think about until they are in a pinch at the last minute. Living in Florida especially – we can go outside at 1pm with sweltering sunlight, to come back home at 3pm to a torrential downpour. When planning your wedding, you definitely should put your vision into motion, but also have a secondary option that will also fit your vision if you have to pivot where your festivities have to be. John and I are a PRIME example of the couple that didn’t “fully” plan out what a backup plan would look like in the event of inclement weather…
Remember, hurricane season technically runs from June 1st to November 30th. We thought that renting a huge 30×40’ tent was a dual purpose solution – it gave us a covered space for our reception if it was crazy hot, but also worked if it rained. What we didn’t fully think out was if our venue could accommodate things when the weather turned really bad. Now I have to give us a little bit of grace – a massive hurricane coming through and flooding out the venue wasn’t exactly on the worst case scenarios list…at the time. You can bet your booty that it is now, for all of our couples because we bring it up at our initial meetings. My heart isn’t to be a buzz-kill – I want this to be the most amazing day of your life, and I never wish any of our couples to have to compromise that…but if you have to, let’s be smart about it!
So here are some things to think about in regards to your “backup plan”…
- Are you planning an outdoor ceremony? If a summer rainstorm comes to town, is there a large enough (and pretty) space that can accommodate it?
- What if you plan to have your reception outside? If a tropical storm blows through, is there space to move inside and is there staff or assistance in place to move everything quickly? (guests will always jump into action to help, but since most of them don’t know your vision, it’s usually best to have a designated person to delegate…. #WeddingPlanner!)
- What if your venue has to shut down or isn’t available at the last minute? What measures does your venue have in place to assist you in relocating your wedding?
- Planning an intimate, beach wedding with a restaurant reception? I think beach ceremonies can be so beautiful, but it definitely leaves you out in the wide open. If you don’t have the budget or minimum guest count for a venue alternative, check out what local parks are in the area near your original location! Some public parks have covered gazebos or boardwalks that may offer enough space for a small group of people. One thing to make sure though – the city may require a permit if you are technically having an event on the property. Call ahead and verify any requirements they may have so you don’t have a park ranger come over and rain on your parade.
Total side note – if you do plan to have your reception at a restaurant, make sure to ask what their policies are on photography/videography. Usually they won’t have an issue, but sometimes you might be in the same space as other patrons and it’s nice to consider them too!
Another backup plan side note – think about shoe alternatives in case the weather turns bad! I have my umbrellas and pair of rain boots in my car at every wedding just in case. Your beautiful, sparkly heels may not be the best solution if it’s raining cats and dogs.
Ok, I think I gave you enough to think about! Ultimately I am rooting for the most beautiful weather and wedding day possible for you and your fiance. This is the celebration of the year for you both (and your families), and my desire is that it holds nothing but amazing memories.
