Start of School and all the Fall Michigan Weddings - Rain? Snow? Wind? I didn't plan on that!

I know there are a few days left of the "official summer season" but with the start of the school year I usually think of this as the beginning of the fall season of weddings. 

During September and October most couples have planned for their ceremony to be outdoors. To take in the last warmth of summer and fall and the beautiful colors of the end of summer and the start of the changing of the leaves. 

But...don't forget that it can often be a time for rain, wind, drizzle, cold nights and even...shall I dare say it? a little flurry can be seen in October. 

With that said, let me offer you some thoughts and ideas for your back up indoor locations. 

When selecting your outdoor ceremony location make it a priority to see the indoor ceremony location. Is it at the reception hall on the dance floor? Or is there an optional room or space dedicated to just the ceremony? Don't make this an afterthought. You want to be happy, or at least satisfied that if your ceremony get's moved indoors you know the space will still be amazing, well, at least satisfactory. 

Let's talk about how and when to make the decision to move your outdoor ceremony to indoors. 

1. If the weather turns frightfully cold, like under 65 - Remember your guests will have lovely dresses on and usually...no coat, so they are not prepared to shiver outside for nearly an hour 
2. If its been raining all day, think of the mud that you and your guests will have to trek through - so not worth ruining your train, long veil or shoes!
3. Gail force winds are blowing - trust me, it's happened and think of your veil smacking you and your groom in the face, your bridesmaids $80 updo's coming undone your mascara running because your eyes are watering from being blasted with non stop wind. 
4. Consult with your venue and Officiant, ask for advice and guidance, we will be happy to talk it through with you to help make the choice on moving the location. 

Now, let's talk day of the wedding and last minute moves to indoor locations. If it is at all possible make the decision to move inside as early as possible, this way: 

1. Your florist can set up any ceremony decor inside instead of it being set up outside and then not being able to move it inside. 
2. Your venue has amble time to make the ceremony location perfect for you
3. Your DJ or musicians can set up properly
4. Your guests will be well directed where to go 
5. Your photographer can scope out the place and know just where to get the perfect shots
6. Lastly, you wont be a nervous wreck waiting for that storm to pass or the snow to stop 

I know, you planned for this amazing over the top location OUTDOORS and you want those pictures with the outdoor location! I get it, but remember. You can always take pictures after the ceremony outdoors. What is important is that you enjoy your ceremony, this short window of time where you are actually transforming from two individual souls to one married couple. You want to be relaxed, happy and excited! Not shivering and wet. 

Most importantly, have fun, relax and remind yourself that no matter what, or where, at the end of the wedding ceremony I will be pronouncing you married and THAT is what the day is all about. A celebration of your love and commitment to each other.

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