You’ve dreamed of your wedding day for months — maybe years — and suddenly the forecast calls for rain. Before you panic, take a deep breath. I’ve photographed plenty of rainy wedding days in and around Toledo, and I promise: they can be just as magical as sunny ones.
Rain can actually create some of the most romantic, story-filled photos of all. The key is being prepared with a solid rain plan so you can stay relaxed, dry(ish), and fully in the moment.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan for — and embrace — a rainy wedding day.
Step 1: Choose a Venue With a Backup Plan
The best way to stay stress-free is to book a venue that offers an indoor or covered alternative for ceremonies, cocktail hour, and portraits.
When touring venues, ask:
- “What’s our rain-plan ceremony space?”
- “Where would we do photos if it rains?”
- “Can décor be moved inside easily?”
Many of my favorite Toledo wedding venues — like a Nazareth Hall Wedding, Toledo Zoo, and The Armory Arts & Events Center — have gorgeous indoor options with natural light and character.
Step 2: Invest in Clear Umbrellas
You’ve seen them in photos — those adorable clear bubble umbrellas that keep you dry and let the light through.
They photograph beautifully and add a romantic, storybook vibe.
I always recommend buying at least 4–6 of them for couples and wedding parties. You can find inexpensive packs on Amazon or Target for around $10–$15 each.
Bonus tip: white or black umbrellas tend to cast color shadows, so clear is always best for photos.
Step 3: Plan for Shoes, Dresses, and Touch-Ups
A few smart swaps can save your outfit (and sanity):
- Bring non-slip shoes or a second pair of flats.
- Have towels on hand for wiping shoes between shots.
- Keep makeup blotting papers and a travel hairspray nearby.
If your dress has a long train, bring a bustle clip or fabric loops to lift it off the ground between photos.
Step 4: Create a Cozy Indoor Photo Plan
Even if it rains, we’ll still get stunning portraits — we just get creative!
Think of:
- Staircases, archways, porches, or venue lobbies.
- Covered patios and window-lit hallways.
- Greenhouses or conservatories for soft light.
Some of my favorite rainy-day portraits have been taken in stairwells at Nazareth Hall, under pergolas at Toledo Botanical Garden, and even in a couple’s car right after their ceremony.
Step 5: Embrace the Moment
Once you’ve accepted the weather, you’ll be amazed at how freeing it feels. Dance in the rain with your new spouse. Laugh under your umbrella. Trust your vendors — we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Rain has a way of slowing the day down and making it feel intimate and emotional. Those unplanned, genuine moments often become couples’ favorite memories.
Rain-Day Essentials Checklist
- Clear umbrellas
- Towels or cloths for shoes
- Makeup blotting papers
- Portable fan or hand towel
- Emergency hair spray
- Change of shoes
- Bags or bins for wet items
Keep everything together in a small “rain kit” for your planner or a bridesmaid to carry.
Final Thoughts
Rain doesn’t ruin a wedding day — it adds character to it. Whether it’s soft sprinkles or a downpour, you can still have beautiful photos and a joyful celebration.
My biggest advice? Don’t check the forecast every hour (it changes constantly in Ohio!). Instead, focus on celebrating, laughing, and trusting that your vendor team has it covered.
If you’re planning your Toledo wedding and want help crafting a stress-free rain plan or timeline, I’m here to help.
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