Free planning guide

Rain Plan Checklist

In western Washington the weather can turn in an afternoon, even in August. A rain plan you make early is what lets you relax on the day: if the sky opens up, everyone already knows where to go and who moves what. Use this checklist to build yours, then print it for your coordinator.

Ask me about your rain plan

When to decide

The two decisions that matter most are made long before the forecast: what your backup is, and when you’ll make the call.

  1. When you book the venueAsk what indoor or covered space is available, how many guests it holds, and whether tents are allowed (and if they must be weighted instead of staked).
  2. 4 to 6 months outIf your backup is a tent, reserve one now and ask about the hold and cancellation policy and the last day you can confirm it.
  3. The month beforeSet a decision deadline, usually 48 to 72 hours out or the tent company’s cutoff, and tell your vendors when it is.
  4. At the deadlineLook at the hourly forecast, make the call with your coordinator, and stick to it. Changing your mind on the day costs more time than the rain.

Your rain plan checklist

Tick off what’s settled. Your progress isn’t saved, so print it once it’s filled in.

Plan B space

Where everything moves

Tents and cover

If your backup is a tent

Guest comfort

Keeping everyone dry and happy

Communication

Who needs to know

The day before and the day of

WhenWhat to do
Decision deadlineCheck the hourly forecast, make the call, and tell vendors and the wedding party.
Day beforeSet out umbrellas, towels and blankets. Confirm the tent is up and tested, if you have one.
Morning ofYour coordinator walks the backup plan with the venue and vendors, so you don’t have to.
Showers on and offKeep the ceremony flexible by 15 to 20 minutes; passing showers often clear.

Rain makes great photos. Moody skies, clear umbrellas and a covered porch can be some of the most memorable shots of the day. Ask your photographer where they’d shoot if it rains.

Want someone else to watch the forecast, make the call with you, and run the flip on the day?

See day-of coordination

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