Planning a wedding in the Philippines often means embracing unpredictability—especially when it comes to the weather. We only have two seasons (wet and dry), and yet, there’s still a chance that your big day could come with a drizzle or a full-on downpour! But don’t let that rain on your parade; love shines, even when the sun won’t.
A rainy day wedding can be just as magical. It may even be more memorable. The key is to plan carefully and manage your expectations so you can make the most of the celebration. Keep reading for some essential rainy wedding day tips.
Why Some Couples Prefer Rainy Day Weddings
Some consider December the best month to get married in the Philippines due to its proximity to family gatherings and reunions. Other popular choices include February due to Valentine’s Day, and March and May for sunny weather. But believe it or not, some couples deliberately choose the rainy season for their wedding. Here’s why:
1. Lower Costs
Since fewer couples prefer their wedding on a rainy day, some vendors offer discounts for weddings held from June to October. This helps couples save on costs and stay within budget without compromising the quality of their wedding needs.
2. Cooler Weather
The tropical heat in the Philippines can get quite intense. Nobody likes spending several hours seated and sweating. Rainy day weddings are naturally cooler, which can be refreshing for you and your guests, especially with formal attire.
3. Availability of Wedding Venues
Booking wedding venues in Metro Manila and beyond is trickier to book during the dry season for obvious reasons. You increase your chances of locking in your ideal date and place during the off-peak, rainy months.
4. Moody, Romantic Vibes
Gloomy skies and a gentle drizzle can create a cozy, romantic atmosphere that looks straight from the movies. Imagine the soft lighting, candlelit tables, and dramatic wedding photos. The rain will make your guests feel at ease.
5. More Unforgettable and Special
A rainy day wedding may not be the traditional route, but it creates the best memories. There’s just something so sentimental about saying your vows with the sound of the rain in the background or skipping hand-in-hand under a light shower.
Rainy Wedding Day Tips
It is highly recommended that couples still prepare for rain, regardless of the season. Despite your wedding coordinator’s best efforts, there is one thing they cannot control: the weather. Here’s how to make the celebration smooth and stress-free even when it pours:
1. Ensure the Venue Has an Indoor Option
If you’re envisioning a beach or garden wedding, opt for a venue that offers an indoor option. For example, some Bulacan wedding venues have both lush open spaces and expansive roofed halls that can accommodate your guests. Ask the potential venue about their backup plan in case the weather goes sour.
2. Prepare Umbrellas and Rain Boots
Have enough umbrellas and boots for you, your entourage, and even your guests. It’s not required, but clear umbrellas or those that match your wedding’s color theme will look elegant and photograph beautifully.
3. Adapt Your Makeup and Hair to the Weather
Every bride wants to look fresh and gorgeous on their wedding day. However, rain means not just water and humidity but also wind. If you hoped to wear your hair down and it doesn’t hold a curl well, that might not be the best style. Consult your hair and makeup artist about longer-lasting hairdos and makeup products. You can also ask them to stay until after the event so they can retouch your look when needed.
4. Plan for Comfort
Make sure that your guests are comfortable throughout the wedding and reception. Offer warm drinks like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate at the welcome area. Light shawls or wraps are a nice touch, too—especially for an open-air ceremony.
5. Adjust the Timeline
Rain can cause slight delays. Add buffer time between events to allow for last-minute adjustments. A flexible timeline helps reduce stress and tension for everyone involved.
6. Embrace the Rain
It’s important to maintain a positive attitude despite the gloomy weather. This includes changing your mindset on Filipino wedding superstitions. Filipinos see a rainy wedding day as a bad omen or a tearful marriage. But in some cultures, it’s a symbol of good luck, fertility, cleansing, or renewal. You and your partner can view it from that lens, and soon enough, everyone will have a great time.
When It Rains, Love Pours
At the end of the day, rain or shine, what really matters is that you’re marrying the love of your life. Your wedding is about your journey, your love story, and your commitment—not the weather. So embrace the uncertainty and let your love pour just as it is meant to.
