What if it rains on our outdoor wedding day?

Rain is fine. Some of my best wedding photos are rainy weddings.

What actually matters: the backup plan exists and everyone knows it. Not "we'll figure it out." A specific call ("ceremony moves under the pavilion if rain at 2pm; tent goes up if confirmed by 11am") that the venue, the planner, the officiant, and you have agreed on in writing.

Photographer gear/tactics for rain:

• Clear umbrellas. Get 4-6 of them in advance, $15 each on Amazon. Hand them out to wedding party. Reads romantic in photos, dry in life.
• A weather-sealed body and lens. Most pros have this; ask yours specifically.
• Towels in your kit for wiping the lens between shots.
• Plastic sheeting or a poncho for kneeling on wet grass for low-angle shots.

What to ask your photographer this week: "If it rains, what does our portrait location look like?" There should be a Plan B (covered patio, lobby, large window). If she shrugs, that's a problem.

The $1,400 tent: I'd only do it if your guest list includes elderly relatives who can't handle being moved or if you're a person who will be miserable if the day doesn't look exactly as planned. The photos work either way.

Aesthetic note: rain weddings have a moody/cinematic look that's actually trending right now. Wet pavement reflects light beautifully and umbrellas read as iconic, not as "cope." If you're booking a photographer whose portfolio has variety, ask to see one of their rainy weddings. Tells you fast whether they can adapt.