If you’re planning a wedding in Wellington, you already know - our weather has a mind of its own. One minute, it’s sunshine and blue skies, and the next, you’re caught in a sideways southerly. Wellington’s charm comes with a little unpredictability, and yes, that includes your wedding day forecast.
But here’s the big thing to remember - rain on your wedding day isn’t a disaster. In fact, with the right mindset (and a solid backup plan), it can make for some of the most magical, romantic, and downright stunning wedding moments. Think soft, moody skies, dramatic reflections on wet pavements, and cosy, intimate vibes.
So, let’s talk about how to embrace a rainy Wellington wedding and turn it into something unforgettable - because even though you can’t beat Welly on a good day, you can create some pretty magical photos even when the wind is on full blast!
Rain on Your Wedding Day: A Good Omen?
Before we get into the practical tips, let’s reframe the way we think about rain on a wedding day - because it’s all about mindset:
Symbol of new beginnings. Many cultures believe rain on your wedding day signifies good luck, prosperity, and a strong marriage. The idea? A wet knot is harder to untie than a dry one!
Soft, dreamy lighting. Overcast skies mean no harsh shadows or squinting into the sun - just beautifully diffused, flattering light for your photos.
Unexpected fun. Some of the best wedding memories come from the unplanned moments - dancing in the rain, sharing an umbrella with your new spouse, or your guests huddling together for a cosy celebration.
Something I like to remind all my couples is this - you can’t control the weather. So the best you can do is prepare for anything - and embrace it!
Rain-Proofing Your Wellington Wedding: The Ultimate Guide
1. Have a backup plan for your ceremony
The best way to stay stress-free on a rainy wedding day? Plan for it from the start.
Choose a venue with an indoor or covered option – whether that’s a beautiful indoor space, a marquee, or a sheltered courtyard with heaters.
Talk to your venue about Plan B – know exactly what the wet-weather alternative looks like before you need it, so if you need to kick things into gear on the day, things will run as smoothly and stress-free as possible.
Consider a marquee – it keeps you dry while still letting in that soft natural light (and how romantic does rain sound on a tent roof?). If you have a venue that doesn’t have a rainy day option, or you’re getting married on a family property - marquees are a wonderful (and classy!) option.
2. Rain-ready wedding attire
A little rain doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style - and in Wellington, layers are the way to go! A couple of ideas for keeping cosy and comfy:
Waterproof but stylish shoes. If you’re walking on wet grass or cobbled paths, swap stilettos for block heels, boots, or cute bridal sneakers.
A chic cover-up. Think cosy wraps, or a stylish leather jacket for an edgy twist.
For the boys? Consider a backup shirt if things get too damp - nothing wrong with a quick outfit change!
3. Umbrellas, but make them aesthetic
Clear or white umbrellas not only keep you dry, but they also look incredible in photos. Bulk buy some for your bridal party and guests, and suddenly, you have an instant wedding aesthetic upgrade.
Pro tip: Wellington wind can be extra, so go for sturdy, windproof options rather than flimsy ones that might turn inside out mid-ceremony.
4. Rainy wedding photos = next-level romance
Some of the most incredible wedding shots happen in the rain - I mean, just think of that famous scene in The Notebook. Think:
Reflections on wet pavement - a little bit of movie magic right there!
Cosy shots under an umbrella, wrapped up in each other.
Playful, fun moments - running through the rain, twirling in puddles.
The ultimate windswept shot in the wild weather
Work with your photographer (hi, that’s me!) to make the most of the weather - rainy-day wedding photos can be absolute magic. So if you’re willing to get a bit wet (and aren’t opposed to an outfit change pre-reception) - it’s totally worth it for the shot!
5. Hair & makeup that won’t budge
Humidity and drizzle can be a bit of a challenge, but the right prep can keep you looking flawless - and the key to this is hiring the pros! Chat to your hair and makeup artist about the best way to make your hair and makeup last, no matter the weather.
Go for waterproof everything. From mascara to setting spray, make sure your makeup is ready for a little extra moisture.
Opt for styles that work with the weather. Sleek buns, romantic updos, or braids hold up better than loose curls in Wellington’s damp air.
6. Keep your guests comfortable
A few small touches can make a rainy wedding day extra cosy and welcoming:
Hot drink stations – mulled wine, hot choccy, or freshly roasted coffee = instant comfort.
Blankets & shawls – great for keeping guests warm during outdoor moments.
A rainy-day wedding programme – a little note in your invites about potential wet weather lets guests come prepared!
At the end of the day, a rainy Wellington wedding is just part of the adventure. Some of the best wedding moments come from embracing what the day throws at you—whether that’s unexpected sunshine, a bit of wind, or a dramatic downpour right when you say, “I do” (and somehow, the rain really knows how to time it to make things extra dramatic!)
So, don’t stress the forecast - own it. Rain or shine, your wedding will be full of love, laughter, and a whole lot of memories. And hey, if nothing else, it’s a great excuse to get some truly iconic, cinematic wedding photos (and maybe dance in the rain, just because you can).
