Photo Credit: Jelger & Tanja

“The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry”. That famous quote rings true and if there’s one thing we have learned from all the events we’ve done, it’s that all the planning in the world cannot stop Mother Nature. She will sometimes remind of us of her power – usually at the worst possible times. This is why we always have a back-up plan, a rain plan, a snow plan, a hail plan, because, hey, sh*t happens!

What is the Back-up Plan?

They call this the “Wet Coast” for a reason. We always consider weather when planning any outdoor event, even in the summer time. If you are planning on hosting your ceremony or reception outside, make sure that you have a coverage option, like at tent. If you don’t have access to a tent, consider what options the venue has. Many venues will work with you during the planning process to help identify an alternative indoor space if it becomes necessary.

If you’ve always wanted to get married under a light dusting of snow, just remember that in reality, it becomes not so elegant when it begins to rain and turns to slush. Standing outside getting hypothermia isn’t really romantic! We love the idea of a wedding inside a lodge with the intimate backdrop of snowfall. Your guests will thank you when they don’t have to stomp through a forest to see you get married in a snow drift.

Photo credit: Aileen Choi Photography 

Why do you bother with a Back-Up Plan?

“Be prepared!” as the Scouts say! You are planning this as a worst case scenario so that you aren’t surprised on the day of. This gives you peace of mind and the chance to enjoy your day. Work with your venue and wedding planner to come up with the best possible option.

Our advice for the Back-Up Plan

  • If it includes a tent on a cold day, rent heaters before your wedding day. We once had to used a drywall heater in a pinch!
  • Consider getting walls for your tent. Keep them around just in case you need them. A last minute white tarp doesn’t make for pretty photos.
  • Look at your venue and investigate any rain hazards. Is it above the buffet? Somewhere there is heavy foot traffic? Once you identify, you can come up with solutions.
  • Is there a venue or place close by that is affordable that you could switch to last minute? Sometimes venues have alternative solutions or suggestions they’ve seen in the past. When in doubt, just ask!
  • Have someone who can do hair and makeup on standby. If you have a first look and you get caught in the rain or snow, your hair might fall out of place or your make-up may run. Have a friend or even your makeup and hair person come to do touch ups just before the ceremony. A curling iron, a blow dryer and some magic can go a long way.
  • Don’t think that you don’t need a Back-Up Plan! The absolute worst thing that can happen on the day of your wedding is for you to receive multiple phone calls about choices that need to be made that morning. It’s best if it’s already made and your planner and venue can make the call with your best interests in mind while you focus on what’s important – you and your partner!
Photo credit: Kaoverii Silva Photography

Final thoughts

Things happen. It is what it is. Sometimes, you just can’t prepare for what Mother Nature has in store. As wedding planners, we’re here to support you, in any capacity we can. No one wants to start off their wedding with an exit strategy, but it’s important to understand what each vendor has arranged in order to have a smooth, happy wedding day.

Love T&K