A question we are so often asked - "what happens if it rains?"... We get it! Rain on your wedding day is never really on the vision board, so you'll always have that worry in the back of your mind. But we are here to let you know that there is always a plan at Dodmoor, and honestly, you really don't need to worry!
As much as we would love to be able to control the weather, especially on your special day, we sadly aren’t so lucky (and while we're planning away behind the scenes for lots of other aspects of your big day, reaching out to the weather man just isn't achievable)! Unfortunately living in the UK means weather will always be an unpredictable factor (whatever the season), so it’s important to not only have a plan regardless of the time of year you're getting married, but also to try and embrace it - whatever happens.
Two of our own wedding coordinators Carolyn and Sophie had downpours on their wedding days (Carolyn's here at Dodmoor, so it's genuinely tried and tested, and Sophie's in a marquee in a field!), and both will tell you with their hands on their hearts that actually - they barely noticed the weather and truthfully could not have cared less! The rain meant everyone needed to gather inside, so the venues were packed out with people and there was a real buzz in the atmosphere, and during the evening the dance floor was never empty! So they're can certainly be some pro's to a rainy day and night.
There is also something quite magical and cosy about the rain, especially when Dodmoor is quite literally covered in fairy lights and candles! Lights and candles twinkling, with all of your loved ones gathered inside together - we think that sounds pretty sweet. The outside of the venue is always all lit up too!
It's likely quite true that you might not even notice the weather, because when you wake up on your wedding day all you will really be thinking about (ideally!) is the fact you're marrying the love of your life in just hours. So try to take away that thought and know that you will still have the greatest day ever, but also rest assured that all the finer details and logistical plans are in our hands - so there is no need to worry.
We would always explain the 'wet weather plans' or 'plan B' in detail at your planning meeting (around 2-3 months before your wedding), and would ensure that you are happy with everything we have set out (such as where you would do your aisle walk, where guests would gather after the ceremony etc). You will be kept in the loop with plans sent over to you in writing too, so you can always check back over them!
However, it's handy to know now what we would have available to keep you dry on the day! Such as...
A huge stash of umbrellas, so guests are covered (literally) even if they forget their own!
Pretty white and/or clear umbrellas for the Bridal Party to make us of (lovely for photos)!
An 'undercover route' through both barns, meaning you and your guests can access both barns on the day without the need to venture outside.
Gazebos which can be popped up on the top level of the courtyard, creating a dry arrival space and additional cover during the daytime and evening for any smokers or guests who need some air.
The opportunity to have your confetti moment inside, as we are very happy to allow biodegradable petal confetti inside the barns. This means that even if you can't gather outside for a photo, you can still have that 'Just Married' confetti moment caught on camera.
Dedicated staff who will handle all of the drinks serving, furniture moving and ushering of guests (where needed), who are not afraid to get their hair wet! We will make it all happen around you, ensuring your sole focus is on yourselves and your guests (not the great outdoors)!
There are also lot's of indoor options for photos too, as Dodmoor has plenty of pretty backdrops to make use of. With the brick walls and the beams, and the fairy lit pallet wall, there's character everywhere you look, so your photographer will be sure to find some great areas for group shots or couple portraits. You can always refer to our Photo Opportunities blog too, for some indoor rainy photo inspo.
We would however suggest (if you're willing) - grab an umbrella and get outside for at least some of your photos. This is your wedding day and you're only doing it once! Lift up that dress and head out with your photographer - you won't regret it. You can always touch up your hair and makeup when you return, but when else will you be able to get some much loved and fondly remembered photos of you two fooling around in the rain, on your WEDDING DAY?
It’s important to prepare your guests as much as possible, maybe a wet weather guide they can access before the wedding reminding them of how they can play their part. Spare, weather appropriate shoes (no one wants to be a sinking Susan), scarves & jackets especially in those colder winter months. You could even create a care package to pop in the toilets for a quick touch up so guests can fight the frizz should they need too! The main thing to remember is we are very much acclimatized to British Weather, so don’t panic, just enjoy the moment & maybe even start singing in the rain!
Now we promise, it’s not all doom & gloom. Rain on a wedding day can make for some beautiful moments captured on camera; raindrops falling in the background, umbrellas used to frame the happy couple & even groomsmen in their wellies are just a few shots that will remind you of the best day of your lives. Unlike the words of Alanis Morissette or the general feeling of Brits towards rain, in many cultures it’s seen as a sign of good luck on your wedding day so take it as a blessing and run with it.
Lastly, it’s important to remember that it’s not all about the weather, you’re marrying the person you love & care about more than anyone else in the world, and a little bit of rain won’t change that, so just embrace it!
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