How to Pivot Like a Pro When Weather Hits on Your Wedding Day

Sometimes weather likes to make an appearance on your wedding day. Here are some simple ways to prepare for Weather-Proofing Your Jackson Hole Wedding.

Weather-Proofing Your Jackson Hole Wedding

Rain Delays

Rain can be present on any wedding day, and it’s important to have a backup plan in place. However, this can also be tricky with outdoor weddings in the park since there is no venue offerings for an indoor location. The best plan here is to bring umbrellas (I have several clear ones!). Occasionally, we’ve sat in cars to wait out the heaviest of the rain or have driven to a location 10-20 minutes down the road in hopes it wouldn’t be raining there. 

Smoke or Cloud Cover over the Mountain Peaks

Unfortunately we can’t control the weather, and smoke or cloud cover is no exception. Usually our best bet is to move closer to the mountains. This can help with visibility issues. In the event that the mountains just really aren’t showing up, I usually recommend using locations that have more interesting features like hills, close trees, river or lake.  This might mean abandoning your original timeline and locations in favor of having the best outcome.

Windy Wedding Days

Wind is a beast in Wyoming. On breezy days, I do my best to keep an eye on your hair and keep it blowing away from you as best as we can. On especially windy days, we may move to more secluded areas to give your face and hair a break. 

Unexpected Snow on Your Wedding Day

Even with the best forecasts, the mountain weather can surprise us. Be prepared when visiting in the shoulder season especially – like early May and earlier and late September or later. These times of the year can present colder weather and unexpected snow flurries! Even on a winter wedding day, you might not be expecting a blizzard to be blowing through. Bring layers that will work with your wedding attire in case you need to add any on – thermals or heavier under layers and nice coats or wraps can help keep the cold at bay.

Weather-Proofing Your Jackson Hole Wedding from Heat and Altitude

Heat can be an issue at this altitude. Stay hydrated and don’t forget to wear sunscreen. In the days leading up to your event or session, be sure to keep your skin protected from the elements so you don’t end up with awkward tan lines. Drink plenty of water and fuel your body on your wedding day so that you can keep a good attitude, have fun, and not feel yucky during photos. Pack snacks and water to bring in your vehicle with you. If you are prone to burning, you might consider bringing an umbrella to protect you from the sun during walks between photo areas. 

Making Magic Happen Even Amid Inclement Weather

When planning an outdoor wedding, there are always things can go “wrong”. It’s best to come with a good attitude and ready to shift plans if needed. When schedules allow, I’ve worked with clients to reschedule sessions, wedding portraits, or sections of the day so that we can take advantage of the best possible weather. Other times, we just make our magic happen amid pouring rain, guests of wind, and smoky skies. The weather on your wedding day might not be perfect, but your wedding day memories still can be!

We do the best we can to make sure you’re aware of all the options. While honoring your permit, the fact that you have other vendors you’re working with, and family and guests to accommodate we move forward with the best plans. 

Let’s connect about your wedding photography in Jackson Hole or wherever your destination takes you! Reach out using my contact form. Can’t wait to chat with you!