Wedding Reception in the Woods

Ceremony Location

Ceremony Location 2

If there is no back up plan, the site isn't perfect. There is no way I would hang out in the rain, umbrellas or not. If the rain was light my husband, God bless him, would insist we stay to humor you. We'd eat a bite or two, then we would be out of there. If it's a real rain, we would nope right out of there.

The reception is a thank you for your guests. You are thanking them for witnessing your vows. Thanking people while they are getting soaked, umbrellas can only do so much, is crappy. Also how on earth are people supposed to eat while holding umbrellas? Will they have to take turns so that someone can hold their umbrella?

I agree with Mim. If it started to rain I would just leave, not hangout with an umbrella and hope for the best!

Trees will not keep the rain out. I can speak first hand from hunting in rain & snow that trees do not keep the moisture out. Possibly some wind, but not rain or snow. And if it starts to storm with thunder/lightening it won't be safe anyway. I would have a backup plan or rent small tents to cover chairs with if the weather calls for rain. Or move the date to a less rainy month.

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LOL "Also how on earth are people supposed to eat while holding umbrellas? Will they have to take turns so that someone can hold their umbrella?"

A rain plan is 100% necessary, even if it’s a backup/plan B. Are you having the reception elsewhere ? Is there an option to do the ceremony there instead ? The rain plan for our beach ceremony was to get married in the reception area — guests would be at their seats , and we’d exhange vows on the dance floor, as there wasn’t really ‘extra’ space for a second set up

Hard Pass. As someone who had an outdoor ceremony and reception, I would NEVER have chosen to do so if I didn't have (multiple) back up plans.

No way are trees and umbrellas going to cut it.

There was a recent bride on here who posted her experience of having an outdoor ceremony with no backup plan. Suffice it to say it did not go well. Guests were not happy. Some even just sat in their cars during the ceremony and people left early. Your guests' comfort should be more important than your vision. Either have a backup plan or choose a different venue.

Ok, the location is beautiful! I will say that - but there is no way I would come if it was raining, especially if I am supposed to be dressed up.

I’m a wedding violinist. I’ve played about 80 weddings and it’s rained at many of them. You can totally do it if it’s your dream venue. Just a few things to think about, your dresses and shoes will be ruined. Guests will use the clear umbrellas but their outfits will get messed up too. You can’t hear the vows/officiant so the ceremony isn’t what you want. Older guests have trouble walking in mud. And you can’t have sound equipment or live musicians. I have seen weddings in the pouring rain but if you have 18 months to plan I’d reconsider. But at the end of the day, you will be married to the love of your life.

The pictures are gorgeous but I couldn't do it without a solid back-up plan. Umbrellas only do so much - especially if it is windy. I fear if it rains, your day will be cut short by everyone leaving as soon as they can. I would find a different venue if you can't come up with a back-up that keeps your guests dry.

View Quoted Comment We are only inviting close friends and family and the reception will be indoors. Thanks so much for your input!

View Quoted Comment Your reception is in doors? Huh, you titled this "wedding reception in the woods".

Anyway, it doesn't matter who is on your guest list. You should treat them well. That means being in a weather appropriate location. If it is raining, have the ceremony at the reception sight. Now you have a back up plan. May in Michigan? I'd think about the wooded sight as your back up IF the weather is actually nice.