Happy Island Showers | How to Handle Rain During Your Elopement

Jan 30

Believe it or not, we have NEVER had a ceremony rained out, but the most common question we hear is “What is the Rain Plan for my Elopement?” Let the experts talk you through the example of this cute couple that got married on a rainy day.

Obviously, a huge draw to eloping in Hawaii is the epic outdoor ceremony venues that cannot be beat anywhere in the world. With the outdoor venues, you are exposed to the elements of Mother Nature, so here is where you email us and ask The Big Question:

“What’s the Rain Plan?”

First of all, let’s talk seasons. Hawaii doesn’t have the typical four seasons that everywhere else does. We fluctuate between perfect and gorgeous every single day. The temperature may vary only slightly — when we get cold it’s still only 70 degrees Fahrenheit ( we’re so spoiled! ). The islands do have a rainy season and a dry season like most tropical climates with the rainier months being January and February.

Well… What’s the deal then?? To be completely honest, it rains in Hawaii almost every single day, but LET ME BE CLEAR, these are not the rain storms you are used to back home. These are what we like to call happy, island showers that last 2 minutes and you barely feel anything. Happy Island Showers are more common in the morning and are what keeps our beautiful islands so green.

If you are blessed with a Happy Island Shower around the time of your ceremony, we will simply wait it out for a couple of minutes and proceed without any issues. We have done this plenty of times!

“But I know I’m unlucky and it’s going to POUR!”

Okay, stop right there — you are not unlucky and everyone thinks this! If it appears to be more than a Happy Island Shower, we ALWAYS bring umbrellas on site. We have a big basket full of all-white umbrellas that look great in photos and match any of our six signature ceremony styles. You and your guests are more than welcome to use the umbrellas if it makes you more comfortable. Most of our Signature Locations have a covered area that we can move under as a last resort.

PROS to a Rainy Day

What??? There are GOOD things about rain on your wedding day? YES! The lighting is so much better because the clouds diffuse the direct sunlight which eliminates any harsh shadow lines on your face. It is also cooler and your guests won't be in direct sunlight. Plus you get cute photos in adorable rain boots!