The importance of a having a “Plan B” cannot be over emphasised. Melbourne weather is notorious for it’s capriciousness. Admittedly certain months of the year are more readily predictable, which has two major consequences. Those months that offer more stable conditions are booked well ahead. Secondly if inclement weather does play havoc with your plans then options to do a quick change of venue are reduced because those that have put their plan B into action have beaten you to the punch.
Rain: It is not just rain that you have to worry about when it comes to your wedding. Though it is the main spanner that may be thrown into your wedding plans. Rain effects not just those that are having an outside ceremony. Because you may have to get in and out of your transport and venue without the benefit of full cover. Of course rain can also limit your photo options. So having a back-up plan regarding location of both your ceremony and photos is an important strategy you may want to put some thought into.
Heat: In Australia we are blessed with abundant sunshine but this blessing can at times be a curse. Nobody wants to be subjected to a blazing sun with little or no shade. If you are contemplating a garden or outside ceremony in the summer months then certain considerations should be factored into your plans. Is there going to be sufficient shade for the bridal party and your guests (and Your Celebrant). Is the time of the wedding going to mean that you are conducting your ceremony in the heat of the day and so furthering your difficulties. You cannot reasonably expect your elderly guests to be subjected to very high temperatures for long periods of time.
Refreshments should be cold and plentiful and include non-alcoholic options. Arrange with your caterers for a table of light refreshments to be made available. Show your guests that you are thinking of them both prior to, as well as after the ceremony.
Groom Comfort: You may also want to re-consider the heavy three-piece suit option for the groom and his attendants. What looked great in the air-conditioned showroom of the formal hire shop may not look quite so dashing when it is making the groom and groomsmen perspire from ever pore of their body with the reception and first dance still to come. Think seasonal, think practical, think comfortable.
Suggestions: Have a “Plan B” – Be it a nearby option for your photos to be taken or an undercover venue that you know will be available if the weather turns nasty. Have umbrellas / parasols available for rain or shade. Have sufficient seating for elderly guests if the weather is likely to be hot. Don’t forget that although the bride may well be in an air-conditioned car for the arrival that pleasant atmosphere, with it’s make-up saving properties, will soon come to an end and you don’t want the bride’s make-up to be compromised if it can be avoided.
Contingency plan: You cannot realistically book two venues and cover all the possible problems that may arise, but having a contingency plan to cover some of the obvious ones just makes good sense. You are likely to be spending considerable amounts of money to have the kind of wedding you have always wanted and if the weather or some other interruption comes along trying to disrupt those plans you may need to think outside of the box and change your plans at the last minute. Don’t let this upset your day, simply take it as part of the life’s rich tapestry and move on to make the best of circumstances.
Try to remember: You are the centre of attention on the day, not the venue, not the transport, it’s not really all about the photos, the dress, nor anything else. It is about you and your fiance. If the weather is not perfect, then take it in your stride and move on. Don’t let it spoil your day or dampen your enthusiasm. Regardless of the weather it is your day and the beginning of your brand new life together. You and your partner are starting on a grand new adventure – there will sunshine, there will be rain. There will be laughter, there will be tears. It is how you deal with those circumstances that will define you as a couple.
I hope this advice is of use to you and that something of a Plan B makes it onto your to-do list. All the very best for your Big-day… Hope to see you there.
Ron Gallagher. http://www.yourcelebrant.com.au
Your Celebrant - Ron Gallagher 