How to Handle Rain on Your Wedding Day: Practical Tips & Planning Advice

One of the biggest worries couples have on their wedding day is the weather. Will it be sunny, or will rain ruin the day? In the Roanoke, Charlottesville, and DC region, it really could go either way. But here’s the thing: rain isn’t a disaster. With some planning, it can actually make your photos even more magical. Some of my favorite wedding images were captured on rainy days, with moody skies, glowing umbrellas, and reflections that add drama and beauty.

I’m Kara, a wedding photographer based in Roanoke, Virginia, who also works frequently in Charlottesville and Washington, DC. I’ve photographed weddings in nearly every type of weather and know how to adapt so your day flows smoothly. I help couples create a stress-free experience, guide them through backup plans, and capture beautiful, timeless photos no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

In this guide, I’ll share practical tips for handling rain on your wedding day, whether you’re planning an indoor celebration, an outdoor ceremony, or something in between.

Planning for Rain at a Big Wedding

If rain on your day would absolutely ruin things for you, then it might be wise to go ahead and book an indoor wedding venue. Some venues, like The Taubman Museum in Roanoke or West Manor Estate, have fully indoor capabilities.

Most other venues, though, have their primary ceremony space outside with either an indoor reception space or a tented reception space.

Venues with Outdoor Ceremonies and Indoor Receptions:

• Castle Hill Cider
• The Seclusion

Venues with Outdoor Ceremonies and Tented Receptions:

• Mankin Mansion
• The Market at Grelen

I personally love a tented reception space, but in the event of heavy rain, the only way to keep a tented reception dry is to elevate the tent on a stage. This can be costly but definitely doable like you can see below!

For almost all venues, the rainy day plan for ceremonies is to move the ceremony into the reception space.

Handling Rain at Micro Weddings & Elopements

For micro weddings—especially those in a national park, VRBO, or backyard—rain can be a bit trickier. Here are your options:

• Option 1: Make sure your space is big enough to transition indoors if needed. That may mean doing the ceremony in a living room or solarium.
• Option 2: Book a small venue like The Space Downtown or Batten Green that can accommodate an indoor ceremony pivot.
• Option 3: Just go for it with umbrellas outside—this is totally doable for the adventurous couple!

Hair & Makeup Considerations for a Rainy Wedding Day

If rain is in the forecast, you’ll want to make sure your hair and makeup can withstand a little moisture.

• Use waterproof makeup – A good makeup artist will use long-lasting, waterproof products to keep your look fresh all day. Ask for waterproof mascara, setting spray, and long-wear foundation to ensure your makeup doesn’t budge.
• Consider keeping your hairstylist on standby – If your hair is prone to frizz or falling flat in humidity, having your stylist stay for touch-ups can be a lifesaver. They can refresh curls, tame flyaways, and even restyle your hair if needed.
• Have an emergency kit – Pack extra bobby pins, hairspray, and blotting papers to keep yourself looking polished.

Other Practical Tips for Embracing Rain on Your Wedding Day

• Have a change of shoes – Wet feet aren’t fun for anyone! Bring an extra pair of dry shoes to switch into.
• Bring at least one pair of flats – Heels + wet soil don’t mix well. Having a pair of flats on hand will make navigating wet ground much easier.
• Invest in umbrellas – Clear or white umbrellas are both practical and look great in photos! They can add a romantic touch while keeping you dry.
• Layer up – Rain often brings a temperature drop, so pack a stylish wrap, jacket, or shawl to stay warm while looking elegant.
• Be flexible with your timeline – It rarely rains ALL DAY in Virginia. If you can be flexible (especially for elopements and micro weddings), we might be able to dodge the rain and still do your ceremony and portraits outside by just starting things a little earlier or later.
• Rain makes for stunning, show-stopping portraits – Don’t be afraid to embrace the elements! Some of the most romantic and cinematic images come from rainy-day weddings.

Mindset is Everything

At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you get married and have an amazing time. If you decide to have fun no matter the weather, then you will! Rain can add drama, beauty, and uniqueness to your wedding story. It might even be a good thing. 😉