Why Every Couple Should Have a Wedding Backup Plan

It’s not something any of us wants to think about on our wedding day. But the fact is that no matter how meticulously planned, celebrations can trip up even the best of us, from a vendor canceling at the last minute to a torrential downpour during those outdoor vows. The good news? A little prepping goes a long way. With a strong backup plan, your wedding can still go off beautifully—just with a few adjustments.

According to event designer Marissa Lennox of Golden Thread Events, the best way to prepare is planning ahead — and that starts early. “When you first go visit a venue, that’s one of the very first questions you should be asking: What if the weather changes?” she says. “Even in areas with dry, dependable weather, I’ve experienced flash storms or unpredicted 180s. You just never know.”

So what can you do to construct a sturdy wedding backup plan? Here are expert-approved tips to help you cover your bases — and keep your wits about you — no matter what surprises life hurls your way.

Start with Your Venue

Talk with your venue contact before you sign up! Some big questions to ask, according to Lennox:

• What is your official weather plan B?
• What is the maximum capacity for the backup space?
• By when should we make the call on switching? (Some places want 24 hours’ notice; you might have until the morning of at others.)

And if your venue doesn’t have a built-in backup plan, fear not — get creative. “Ask your planner for other options, with pros, cons and extra costs,” says Lennox. “No planner? Ask the venue what other couples in similar circumstances have done.”

Budget for the “Just in Case”

You may not want to be dwelling on rain during your wedding day — but picture the anxiety of having to organize last-minute tents or heaters without the money saved up. “Looking ahead is about accepting that Plan B may be the new Plan A,” Lennox says. “Even if you don’t have to use it, having a small cushion in your budget makes a big difference.”

That might be as straightforward as setting aside a clear-topped tent, or the cost of budgeting for 200 candles to make a romantic glow indoors. “When you are reimagining your space on short notice, little details do matter,” she says.

Keep Vendors in the Loop

All vendors won’t necessarily be affected on the same scale by a change of weather, but some — say your caterer or band — will need time to make changes. “If your caterer had plans to set up outside and now everything is moving inside, they have to reorganize,” Lennox says.

Her advice: Once you put the backup plan into effect, notify all vendors as soon as possible. “Communication is really key to the seamless transfer,” she says.

Lean on Your Wedding Party

Should you find yourself making some last-minute changes, consider your wedding party to be your secret weapon — especially if you aren’t using a planner. Whether getting guests in and out quickly or helping vendors negotiate their setups, a well-coordinated team can help everything run smoothly.

If you’ve got too much on your plate, delegate. Lease Your maid of honor, best man — to manage the logistics while you remain as calm and focused as possible,” Lennox says.

And if you do have a planner? Trust them. “Your planner’s job is to think three chess moves ahead,” she tells me. “Let them have the details so you can remain present and enjoy your day.”

Final Thoughts

You can’t predict everything. Brides, we know: You’ve spent months, if not years, putting together your special day.You’ve chosen a caterer you love, a photographer whose work fills you with joy, sent out your save-the-dates, met with all of your vendors, scheduled your rehearsal dinner and requested time off work. With a little planning ahead, some flexibility, and a backup plan (namely a support team ready to spring into action) your day will be magical —rain or shine.