Saturdays in the summer months are still the most popular days to get married, according to the Office of National Statistics, and it’s no wonder why. There is nothing like a lush, colourful English summer as the backdrop to the happiest day of your life. As we all know though, the weather in the UK can be notoriously unpredictable, often adding extra stress to your planning process. In this blog I share my top tips to ensure you get hitched without a hitch, regardless what the weather throws at you!
1.Choose a location with beautiful indoor and outdoors spaces
I’ve photographed lots of couples outdoors at beautiful locations around Hampshire and beyond such as courtyard gardens, rose-lined avenues and stunning lush forests. I understand how easy it can be to fall in love with an outside space and imagine your ceremony and/or reception there, but if it’s not possible to be outside, what is your back-up option? Many hotels and country houses offer indoor spaces for this reason, so do your research and understand what options are available ahead of time so you can pick a plan B you’re happy with.
2. Don’t forget how hot it can get in the UK!
Whilst I’m talking about unpredictable weather, you’re probably thinking about rain, but don’t forget about heatwaves too! If you decide on an outside location for your ceremony or reception, ensure you pay a visit at the time of day you and your guests will be outside, so you can check out how much shade is available. Are there trees around or do you need to consider providing something? A marquee could be a great catch all for both exceptionally sunny or exceptionally rainy days.
3. Choose outfits wisely
If you’ve lived in the UK for any amount of time, you’ll know that layers are the key to surviving our erratic weather! When choosing your outfits as a couple, and that of anyone else in your wedding party, ensure you consider how comfortable they will be in both hot and cool weather. Look at what layers you can include (for example a bolero or shawl over a wedding dress) to allow for different temperatures. Let’s face it – you want to be both stylish and comfortable on your big day!
4. Remember to bring supplies
No one coming to your wedding, including you, wants to end the day sun-burned and sneezing! Don’t forget to add hay fever tablets and lots of sun screen to your list to pack for the day if sunny weather is forecast. Your guests will probably appreciate some extra sun cream on their tables more than a bag of almonds – so consider switching up your wedding favours for something surprisingly helpful. Equally if rain is on the cards, ponchos or umbrellas could be just the trick!
5. Plan your photograph locations for all weathers
With my wedding clients we always agree up front where they would like their photographs taken – and what we’ll do if the weather gets in the way. Visit your venue ahead of time and scope out shady or covered spots outside that will work rain or shine.
6. Let go of your expectations
Whether it pours with rain or sizzles like the Sahara, the reality is that you will have the best day of your life anyway! Your guests will be over the moon to see you tie the knot and will enjoy everything that you have planned out for them, so why not let yourself enjoy it too? Release expectations of what the weather will be like, relax and focus on what really matters: celebrating your love for each other.
Planning a summer wedding for 2023?
I have some availability for Summer 2023, so get in touch with me to discuss your photography needs. I would love to photograph your special day, whatever the weather!
