Weather-Proofing Your Outdoor Vermont Wedding: Because Mother Nature Doesn’t RSVP

Outdoor weddings are having a major moment - and honestly? The wedding world doesn’t see that changing anytime soon. From sprawling estates to mountain views to backyard soirées that feel straight out of a Nancy Meyers movie, there’s something undeniably magical about saying “I do” under open skies.

But let’s be honest, babe, all the manifesting and mood boards in the world can’t stop Mother Nature from doing her thing. It's Vermont, afterall. So while your outdoor wedding may be chef’s kiss perfect in theory, are you actually ready if she decides to crash the party?

When It Rains, It Pours (And Then It Puddles)

Let’s start with everyone’s ultimate wedding fear: rain. You can check three different weather apps every day for six months, it won’t change a thing, and it definitely won’t make you more prepared.

Tents are the obvious fix, and yes, they can be pricey. But when couples ask if they’re “worth it,” I always flip the question back: is your wedding day worth it?

It’s not about whether the tent is expensive; it’s about whether you’re okay being unprepared.

Clear tents are a modern favorite for a reason: they protect you from the rain while keeping that open-air vibe (and they look gorgeous when the string lights come on). Just remember: if it rains in the days leading up to your event, you might be dealing with soft or muddy ground.

A few planner-approved fixes:

• Consider a lifted subfloor or flooring, even partial (think: dance floor or dining area only). Your guests in heels will thank you.

• If your tent might double as your ceremony rain plan, size up! Go one or two tent sizes bigger than you technically need.

• Create a second floor plan that includes ceremony seating so you’re not scrambling last-minute.

• Stock up on clear umbrellas for your wedding party and guests. They’re practical, adorable, and yes, the rainy wedding photos on Pinterest really are that cute.

  
  

Heat Waves and Hydration (The Chic Kind)

On the flip side, if it’s not rain, it’s heat. Sure, you’ll want things to get hot and steamy after the reception, but no one wants to melt during your vows.

Keep guests cool (and happy) with:

• Paper fans or parasols - cute, functional, and perfect for photos.

• Refreshing cocktails - think light spritzes or fruit-forward mocktails. (Let’s be real, no one’s showing up to sip plain water, babe.)

• Shaded lounge areas - bonus if they’re stocked with fans or water stations.

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Oh, and one more thing: please don’t let your charcuterie sit out in direct sunlight. Sweaty cheese is never part of the aesthetic.

Cold Weather Chic

Vermont is a year-round wedding destination hot spot. Winter weddings outdoors? Iconic - but only if your guests can feel their fingers.

If you’re planning a cozy, cold-weather ceremony:

• Stock up on fleece throw blankets (no need for one per person, but enough for half your guest list is ideal).

• Add space heaters or fire pits if your venue allows.

• Set out a basket of hand warmers or tuck them into your welcome bags.

• Serve warm signature drinks - hot toddies, mulled wine, spiked cocoa. Cozy, festive, and a total crowd-pleaser.

  
  

It’s a small investment that makes a huge difference in comfort and your guests will remember those thoughtful touches long after the last dance.

Weather Happens - Love Still Wins

At the end of the day, weather is unpredictable, but your love story isn’t. You’re marrying your favorite person, and that’s what matters most.

If the sky opens up or things don’t go as planned, pivot, laugh, and make it part of the story. And if you really want those sun-drenched wedding portraits? Call your photographer for a post-wedding shoot. Get glammed up, slip back into your dress, and create your own second magic moment.

Because the truth is, no amount of rain (or heat, or snow) can dampen a day built around love, joy, and a really good contingency tent.

xo,

Rachel