Don’t Let It Rain On Your Parade
Well finally we have seen a bit of sunshine and here’s hoping that we have lots more to come. In the absence of a rain control machine, (not as crazy as it sounds, as Paul McCartney used a technique in Moscow for a concert in 2004 that locked rain into the clouds), there are many things that can be done to ensure, that despite the rain, you will have a memorable day !
The joys of the British weather can cause many a sleepless night as you lie in bed and listen to the raindrops the night before your big day. The are so many added complications when the rain starts but if you really want to make sure the day happens despite the wet weather then planning ahead is the key.
Check out your venue for quirky indoor areas such as staircases, bay windows or fireplaces, to use for some of the key photos, or invest in a cream pop up gazebo it makes a great purchase, can be put up quickly to provide shelter and can even be used as a giant umbrella, lifted and then held by four willing groomsmen. If you are planning on hiring in a marquee, putting it up a couple of days before as it keeps the ground dry in advance of your day then even if the sun does come out take off the sides to create a great canopy.
Now, the big question of not getting your dress and shoes wet! I always ensure we have at hand a bride aid kit which contains a giant golf brolly, a white shower curtain (great to lay down on wet ground to protect the dress), hair stuff, towels, a rescue sponge (to remove any marks such as mud or make up), and even mini cordless straightners, if it is packed beforehand then you have nothing to worry about. Carry a spare pair of shoes for your walk to the car, wearing bright coloured wellies can also make a great alternative wedding photo for the album.
When it comes to your hair your bridesmaids are there to help you look your best so make sure they carry a spare bag of hairpins, hairspray and comb to tidy up any areas that have come astray just before you head down the aisle. You can also have a selection of quirky umbrellas in decorated buckets at the entrance of your venue and appoint a groomsman to hand them to your guests so they too can join in the photos. So often I have been a guest at a wedding and the organiser has forgotten to consider the needs of the guests so have watched as photos are taken through a misted window plan ahead and you will not have a thing to worry about on the day.
I’ve been involved in weddings and events in rain, snow, gale force winds and even a heatwave (which believe or not is just as problematic as we had to bring in air-conditioning to marquees), and contingency planning is always key to a successful and stress free day. Make a list of all of the things that might impact on your day and then put a plan in place next to each, once it’s done you will have a great nights sleep and enjoy yourself no matter what. Just remember don’t let it rain on your parade just embrace it, laugh it off and enjoy the best day of your life knowing you have everything under control.