So, you have been dreaming of the perfect day for as long as you can remember, but what happens if the unexpected happens and the typically British weather decides to show up and scupper those plans?

This can happen, and we have seen it happen before, so we thought we would share some valuable insights and practical tips to ensure that the rain won't dampen your wedding bliss but rather enhance it, creating unforgettable memories in every drop.

Firstly, let us have a bit of fun! The predictor below will be able to see into the future and predict what weather you should expect on your wedding day! (Unfortunately, this is not a guarantee. If we could see into the future, we would all be millionaires)

What will be will be.

It is important to be accepting and flexible when it comes to the British weather. We never know which weather forecast we will get, and therefore, it’s even harder to plan so far in advance for the perfect setting. While we all hope for sunny skies, it is crucial to remember that some things are beyond our control.

If it does rain on your wedding day, there is little you can do about it, so just enjoy the day for what it is. You will be so preoccupied that the day will fly by, and you won't have time to worry about small things. Understandably, you will want the picture-perfect setting for the photos as well as have everyone enjoying themselves outside, but some of the most memorable and innovative photos we've seen involve water, mud and smiling faces.

Do guests have enough space on a wet day?

Designing a marquee reception can be challenging as we need to plan for all possible weather conditions. We don't want the area to be too small for guests who need shelter from the rain, but we also don't want the space to look empty if everyone is outside enjoying the sunshine.

To start, we recommend understanding the requirements for your wedding reception and designing the space accordingly. Are your guests seated? Do you need space for a band? Are you having welcome drinks? Each decision will affect the overall space required, reducing or increasing the space available for guests.

Our previous blog post on marquee wedding planning will certainly help with the process.

If you're expecting a large number of guests, you may want to think about creating smaller spaces that have a specific function. For instance, you might want to create an intimate dining area, cosy chill-out spaces, a dedicated bar and a reception area.

By sectioning off different areas, you can give each space a purpose which will enhance the functionality and design of the marquee instead of having one big space which could look empty at certain times of the day.

How will the site cope?

It's advisable to consider how your chosen location will handle a little rain. Here are some tips to consider when choosing the site for the wedding reception marquee.

Location, Location, Location: The perfect spot for your marquee isn't just about the view! Look for a site with a flat, well-drained surface. This allows rainwater to flow away from the marquee and keeps the flooring as dry as possible.

Flooring for All Seasons: For spring and autumn weddings, consider a raised wooden subfloor for your marquee. This elevates the entire structure by about 3 inches, creating a barrier against wet ground and ensuring a comfortable experience for you and your guests.

Car Park Considerations: Heavy rain can turn grass areas into soft boggy patches. To avoid any parking mishaps, designate a separate parking area on firmer ground. This ensures a smooth exit for your guests at the end of the night.

A Plan for all occasions: If you're lucky enough to have a few potential marquee locations available, consider having a "wet weather" and a "dry weather" option. The ideal spot may have unspoilt views and hold a special place in your heart but in the face of bad weather, may not be the best option. Planning this in advance can give you peace of mind should you need to change locations at the last minute

Can the services still work on a wet day?

The answer to this is “absolutely!”. In fact, they are stars of the show (apart from you, of course). The initial design of the marquee will take into consideration the space needed for all the additional services involved and shouldn’t really change between a wet or dry day.

Catering with Confidence: We would suggest the caterers are in a partitioned section of the marquee or in their own catering area close to the dining guests. Therefore, the wet weather shouldn’t be an issue for them.

Entertainment Uninterrupted: From bands to DJs, your entertainment will ensure the music keeps flowing, creating an unforgettable atmosphere from evening until night.

Keep those drinks flowing!: Similar to the caterers, the bar and staff will carry on as usual, ensuring that nobody gets thirsty.

Let's face it, you can't control the weather, especially on your wedding day. But with a little planning, you can ensure you're prepared come rain or shine.

Choosing a suitable location, considering the type of flooring, as well as working with experienced vendors, will help settle the nerves if you are worried about the weather.

Remember, rain can add a touch of magic to your wedding day and even your photos! So, embrace the possibilities, focus on the celebrations and create lasting memories with the ones you love most.