Planning for Unpredictable Weather
Black Hills weather is unpredictable—but it doesn't have to ruin your wedding! Being prepared for inclement weather conditions is important if you want an outdoor ceremony.
You’ve heard the saying, “whatever can go wrong will.” This is all too true for outdoor weddings–after all the weather doesn’t know this is biggest day of your life. Being prepared for things to go askew can make all the difference on your wedding day. Try the follow tips, and whether the weather is perfect or not–you will be ready.
Wind
Using candles at your reception or ceremony? Try using glass candle covers to keep your flames going strong. Tack down any flowy curtains or other loose materials to prevent them from blowing away. Don’t forget to secure your hair with setting spray to ensure flawless style–breezy or not.
Rain
Walking down an aisle that was recently rained on? Take a practice walk to see if your shoes are going to stick in the ground or slip in the mud. Walk carefully, and do it before you get dressed so you don't get dirt on your dress! Remember, you can delay the ceremony for a few minutes if it's a downpour that might let up. Consider providing umbrellas for each of your guests to use in advance, or recommend they bring them if your area is prone to showers.
Heat
You want to melt hearts, not guests. If your wedding day is projected to be a scorcher, consider providing paper or misting fans to your guests during the ceremony. Better yet, hold your ceremony somewhere they can sit in the shade. Just remember that they'll be outside a lot longer than you will, since they have to be in seats well prior to you walking down the aisle.
If your reception is also outdoors, talk to your bakery in advance. Ask for icing options like fondant and marzipan that will withstand the heat. Otherwise that cute figurine on the top tier may melt down the side, not to mention the cake may be inedible. Depending on your venue, they may have somewhere you can store the cake inside until it's time to cut so it stays nice and cool.
Cold
If the day has the potential to be cold, have your bridesmaids wear a wrap, shrug, or cape to keep them warm during the ceremony. Try providing a warm drink for the guests before the ceremony—including a hot cocoa bar is a great option. If you are planning a wedding in the fall, a basket of blankets can be a cozy touch for guests to keep warm. You can also look into renting for exceptionally chilly nights.
Tents
If your heart is set on having the outdoor wedding of your dreams, reserve a waterproof tent with sidewalls. This way, no matter what the weather, you and your guests will be able to enjoy it all from the cozy tent.
No matter how much we would like to, sometimes the weather cannot be controlled. Plan for the worst weather and expect the best! Talk with your venue about alternatives that you can quickly move to in case of inclement weather. That way no matter what you wake up to on your wedding day, the show can go on.
FEATURED PHOTO COURTESY OF R. BECKER CREATIVE
