What happens if it rains on my wedding day?

Rain doesn’t have to ruin your wedding photos — in fact, some of the most romantic and atmospheric images are taken in soft rain or under umbrellas. With good preparation, you can fully embrace it.

How can we prepare for rain on our wedding day?

Have a few clear umbrellas ready, plan a sheltered spot for group photos, and trust your photographer to work creatively with reflections, light and texture. A little planning makes a big difference.

Can rainy wedding photos still look elegant?

Absolutely. Rain adds depth, reflection and mood to your photos. With timeless editing and an experienced photographer, wet weather can look incredibly romantic.

Do you carry umbrellas for rainy weddings?

Yes — I always bring a few clear umbrellas and plan wet-weather alternatives so you can relax knowing beautiful images are guaranteed, whatever the forecast.

Rain on Your Wedding Day: How to Prepare (and Why It’s Not a Bad Thing!)

Katya Browne
Sep 23
3 min read

Bride and groom kiss under colorful confetti, surrounded by guests with umbrellas, creating a joyous wedding scene.

The one thing none of us can control on a wedding day is the weather. While many couples dream of sunshine and blue skies, the reality is that rain is always a possibility — especially here in the UK. But the good news? Rain doesn’t have to spoil anything. In fact, some of the most romantic, atmospheric weddings I’ve photographed have been rainy ones. With the right preparation (and mindset), rain can make your wedding even more memorable.

Rain Creates Atmosphere

When the heavens open, your guests naturally gather together instead of spreading out across gardens and grounds. This closeness often creates a warm, lively atmosphere — rooms full of chatter, laughter, and energy. Far from dampening spirits, rain can make your day feel more intimate and joyful, and that translates beautifully into your photographs.

Practical Tips for Rainy Weddings

Umbrellas
White or clear umbrellas are a great investment. They photograph elegantly (no bright logos or colours distracting from the moment) and mean you can still enjoy outdoor portraits if you’d like.
Footwear
Wet grass and stilettos don’t mix well. A spare pair of flats, boots, or wedges will keep you comfortable and mobile — especially if we head outside for portraits. Many couples keep one “ceremony pair” and one “outdoor pair” at the ready.
Hair & Makeup
Some hairstyles hold up better in damp weather than others. Updos often withstand drizzle more successfully than loose curls. Speak to your stylist about rain-proofing, and keep a small kit handy (powder, hairspray, tissues) for touch-ups.
Portraits
Rain doesn’t mean fewer photos. We can embrace it with umbrellas, use reflections and raindrops creatively, or move indoors and make the most of window light and beautiful interiors. Rain showers often pass quickly, so if you’re flexible with timings, we may be able to sneak outside later for a golden hour moment.
Guest Comfort
Thoughtful extras go a long way: a basket of umbrellas, blankets for outdoor spaces, or even towels if needed. These details not only keep guests comfortable, they add to the cosy, welcoming feel of the day.

Bride in white gown and bridesmaid in pink dress walk up wet stone steps under umbrellas, holding bouquets, in a lush, green setting.

For Marquee & Outdoor Weddings

If you’re celebrating in a marquee or tipi, a little wet-weather planning will make the world of difference:

Walkways: Think about paths between the house, marquee, and parking areas. Temporary flooring or matting keeps shoes (and dresses!) mud-free.
Parking: Grass car parks can quickly turn tricky if the ground is soft. Check whether there’s solid access or consider ground protection mats.
Flooring: A boarded or carpeted marquee floor looks elegant and ensures guests aren’t dealing with damp ground beneath their feet.
Entrances: A small covered area or canopy at the entrance can save guests from arriving inside completely soaked.

A Photographer’s Perspective

As your photographer, I’ll always have a plan B. I’ll scout indoor spaces, keep timings flexible, and watch for breaks in the weather. Some of my favourite images were taken in the rain — there’s something undeniably romantic about the two of you under an umbrella, surrounded by soft light and raindrops. Rain also encourages those beautifully candid, cosy moments indoors that you’ll look back on with a smile.

Quick Checklist for a Rainy Wedding Day

• Clear or white umbrellas (for you + bridal party)

• Spare shoes (flats, boots, or wedges)

• Mini touch-up kit (powder, hairspray, tissues)

• Indoor portrait locations in mind

• Baskets of umbrellas or blankets for guests

• Marquee walkways or matting (if outdoors)

• Parking plan on solid ground

• Covered entrance to keep guests dry

Bride and groom under "Agrii" umbrella at outdoor wedding, holding drinks and bouquet. Man in suit joins conversation, greenery in background.

Final Thoughts - Rain on Your Wedding Day doesn't have to spoil it!

Rain on your wedding day isn’t unlucky — it’s said to symbolise good luck and new beginnings. With a few simple preparations and an open mindset, you’ll discover that rainy weddings can be some of the most atmospheric and memorable. Whether it’s sunshine or showers, your day will be unique, joyful, and completely yours.

Planning a wedding in the UK means preparing for every kind of weather — and I’ll be there to capture it beautifully, rain or shine. If you’re looking for a photographer who embraces it all, discover my prices and packages!

My Wedding Photography Packages