Welcome to my guide on how to plan for rain on your wedding day. While the Windy City boasts stunning skyline views and picturesque outdoor venues, it can sometimes be dampened with rainfall at any time of the year. Planning ahead and being prepared for rain will help eliminate any last-minute problem-solving when rain occurs.

1. Embracing the Possibility: In Chicago, rain is a possibility year-round, so embracing the idea of rainy weather on your wedding day is essential. Rather than letting it dampen your spirits, view it as an opportunity to create a unique and romantic atmosphere for your celebration. I have seen the most joyful weddings occur on rainy days, such as Rachel & Calen’s wedding at Cantigny.

Even though rain threatened their ceremony, Rachel told me that even if no one attended the ceremony, that lawn was why she chose the venue and she wanted to get married there, rain or shine. Their joy at being married shines through the photos, and nothing could dampen that!

2. Venue Selection: When choosing a venue, note how much you are willing to be exposed to the outdoors in the event of rain. Are you willing to brave the rain, or will it cause you stress? If you’re concerned about the rain dampening your mood, I suggest finding a venue which offers indoor and outdoor loft space with views that can offer a quick alternative ceremony space. (Lacuna Lofts is a great one!)

3. Rain Gear: Ahead of my sister’s September wedding, I purchased a set of 14 clear umbrellas in case it rained. Lucky I did! All of the bridal party utilized these umbrellas, as it rained during all of the group photos! The umbrellas add a beautiful, clean aesthetic that tell the full story of the day. By using clear umbrellas, it allows all the light to shine through to keep clear, bright images of everyone in the photo. (Pack of 12 or 24 clear umbrellas on Amazon.com). Alternatively, try a creative spin with clear, holographic umbrellas (Linked on Amazon.com). If you’re getting married outside, consider having an alternate pair of shoes, like Rachel did! These white rain boots matched the day and were functional for the muddy aisle!

I always bring this to rainy weddings, but a plastic shower curtain can be placed under your dress during portraits to keep it from soaking up any of the rain and mud.

4. Flexible Timeline: If rain is being predicted as your wedding draws near, work with your vendors to adjust your timeline to allow for adjustments in case of rain delays. Factor in extra time for transportation between venues and photo locations, and communicate with your vendors to ensure everyone is prepared to adapt to changing weather conditions.

5. Hair Style: Keep in mind that updos generally hold up much better in the humid weather that rain brings. Don’t let this shape your bridal look, but keep it in mind. If any of your bridesmaids are concerned about the humidity ruining their hair, this is a great tip!

6. Communication with Guests: Keep your guests informed about the weather forecast and any contingency plans. Provide clear instructions on attire suitable for rainy conditions and consider offering amenities such as umbrellas or ponchos to keep them comfortable throughout the day.

7. Most importantly, remember to have fun! Focus on the love and excitement of marrying your partner against the backdrop of moody weather. Keep a positive attitude and trust that your wedding day will be memorable and magical, rain or shine. As long as you are focused on the joy that comes from marrying each other, nothing will dampen your spirits! Some of my favorite images have only been made possible by the moody beauty of rainy days.

(And remember…rain on a wedding day is good luck!)