First Things First — Rain Is Normal
We live in Britain. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or drinks reception, there should always be a gentle Plan B.
Most venues are well prepared. Coordinators move quickly. Guests adapt. Umbrellas appear from nowhere. It rarely causes the drama couples imagine.
And importantly — it does not ruin your wedding.
What Actually Changes?
Very little.
- The ceremony still happens.
- The speeches still happen.
- The dancing absolutely still happens.
- Your guests still celebrate you.
The only real adjustment is location. Drinks might move indoors. Confetti might shift to a doorway. Group photos might be under cover.
That’s it.
After hundreds of weddings, I’ve never seen rain dampen the atmosphere for more than about three minutes. In fact often, rain makes it. It brings all your friends and family together, closer and often in one room – meaning the atmosphere will be even better, honestly!
From a Photography Point of View
Rain can be beautiful.
Cloud cover creates soft, flattering light. No harsh shadows. No squinting. No bright midday glare.
Some of my favourite portraits have been taken under umbrellas, beneath archways, or during a quick five-minute dash outside between showers.
Light rain can add texture and atmosphere — reflections on stone floors, moody skies over Cotswold hills, guests huddled together laughing.
The key is not pretending it isn’t happening.
We embrace it.
A Quiet Truth
When I got married in 2004, I didn’t worry about the weather. I worried about everything else.
Looking back, I don’t remember what the sky looked like. Instead I remember how it felt. Who was there. The conversations. The people who are no longer with us.
That’s what photographs are for.
Not proving the forecast was correct.
Practical Tips If Rain Is Forecast
If the weather app is looking suspicious the week before your wedding, here’s what I gently suggest:
- Ask your venue about their indoor photo options.
- Have a few clear or neutral umbrellas ready (they look far better than bright branded ones).
- Build flexibility into your timeline.
- Trust your suppliers.
Most importantly — don’t keep checking the forecast every hour. It will change. Repeatedly.
The Best Weddings I’ve Photographed?
Several have had rain.
The photos were full of energy and joy.
No one remembers that day as “the rainy wedding”.
They remember it as brilliant.
If you’re planning your wedding in Cheltenham, the Cotswolds or Gloucestershire and you’re worried about the weather, take this from someone who’s seen it all:
Rain doesn’t ruin weddings. Stress does.
Relax into it. Focus on the people. Let the day unfold.
And if it does rain, you’ve still got your favourite people surrounding you and we’ll genuinely make something beautiful out of it.
To see a wedding that rained pretty much all day, Please click this link.