How to Handle Bad Weather During Your Outdoor Elopement
The most common question I get from my couples is, “What happens if the weather is bad on our outdoor elopement day?”
When you choose to have an outdoor elopement, the weather becomes important to consider as you plan your day. Nature, especially in the Canadian Rockies or any mountains, can be really unpredictable. Rain, wind, or even unexpected chills and snow can swing by uninvited. But that doesn’t mean your day can’t be magical!
While I’m prepared to capture your elopement day during most weather, I know you want to feel ready for it, too! So, I put together some tips on handling bad weather during your outdoor elopement! Let’s get into it!
Pack Extras
As you prepare for your outdoor elopement, you’d normally bring a backpack with you of all the things that could come in handy as you are hiking your favorite trails with the one you love! I recommend throwing in some extra socks, undies, sweaters, and a towel to have a way to dry yourselves and change into something, well, not wet!
You could also take a cozy shawl or throw blankets to keep warm in between photos! If you go for neutral-colored shawls and throws, those will look great in photos. 😊
Weatherproof Your Glam
If you’re having someone do your hair and makeup for your elopement day, ask them to weatherproof it for you! You don’t want your makeup to be running on your photos. It’s less crucial when it comes to your hair since messy hair can give an extra authentic flair to your day and photos!
Grab a Tent or Clear Umbrella
Clear umbrellas look great in photos and protect you from the rain! You also have the option to bring a nice tent with you. There are loads of tent rental companies, or you can buy your own and use it for cozy hikes after your elopement day is over. Canvas tents look really beautiful, especially with some simple styling and decor! Just imagine you and your love stealing kisses and getting cozy in a tent!!
If you do decide to bring a tent, make sure you look into the types of grounds you are on and keep in mind the Leave No Trace principles.
Waterproof Everything
Wear a raincoat and rainboots as you make your way to your outdoor elopement location, as well as look into a good rain cover for your backpack, where you’d be keeping all your goodies!
Have a Plan B… and C, and D!
This is something I always discuss and plan for with my couples – whether it’s a cozy nearby indoor location we can run to if the weather turns sour or we have to choose a different location altogether – I always have backup plans! And if you’re planning your own elopement, I recommend you consider alternative places you could visit on the day, just in case!
Check The Forecast
Keep an eye on the weather forecast for your chosen spot. You could also look up the weather patterns for specific areas to get an idea of what it could be like during your chosen season! But remember, Alberta’s weather loves surprises, so be ready for ANYTHING!
Dance in the Rain
Usually, when couples ask me, “What if the weather is awful?” my first idea is EMBRACE IT, lol! Rain can make your elopement photos absolutely magical!
According to some cultures, rain on your wedding day is good luck and means your bond will be unbreakable! Which I think is super sweet and poetic. 😊
Kelly Szott Photography | Alberta Adventure Elopement Photographer
The rain might try to crash the party during your outdoor elopement, but YOU’VE GOT THIS! And guess what? As your adventure elopement photographer, I’m not just here to snap your pictures. I’m here to help you plan your dream day, from picking the perfect spots to scouting locations, figuring out permits, and creating the PERFECT timeline. Because, let’s face it, your elopement is so much more than just a ceremony – it’s an ADVENTURE!
Ready to plan your dream elopement and capture memories that’ll last a lifetime? Let’s make MAGIC together! You can inquire with me here!
