How to Plan for Weather When Choosing an Outdoor Venue

I have found the majority of couples considering Austin and Central Texas for their wedding are looking for some element of the outdoors for their big day and fortunately we have a lot of venues to choose from. However, the key to planning an outdoor wedding lies in understanding Austin’s climate and preparing accordingly. 

Many spring brides are shocked to learn that May is actually the rainiest month of the year. The old adage, “April showers bring May flowers” appears to be the big trip up. In fact, longtime residents of Central Texas know that Memorial Day weekend tends to bring pretty severe weather. I remember a string of back-to-back severe storms every Memorial Day Weekend from 2013 to 2015. Local wedding planners joked they were “swearing-off” that holiday weekend for weddings. 

So here is the thing you need to know about Austin weather… 

There is a reason the big money organizers of events like Formula One and ACL Fest pick October and November to host their outdoor events, and the organizers of SXSW hold their three-week Austin festival in March. So there you have it. To find the best weather in Austin, you just have to follow the money! 

Understanding Austin’s Weather Patterns

Our area of Central Texas is considered a subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The city enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, but each season brings its own unique weather patterns that can influence your wedding planning. 

Spring (March to May): Springtime in Austin typically brings warm temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s°F. The sides of our highways, and HIll Country fields burst into color with wildflowers like bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes. However, this season also sees increased rainfall and occasional thunderstorms, especially in May.

Summer (June to August): Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F and heat indexes climbing higher due to humidity. Long daylight hours are a plus, but the intense heat can be challenging for outdoor events.

Fall (September to November): Fall brings relief from the summer heat, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s°F. The weather is generally dry, and the foliage begins to change in late November. September can still be quite warm, but October and November are among the most pleasant months.

Winter (December to February): Winters are mild compared to other regions, with temperatures typically between 40°F and 65°F. While snow is rare, occasional cold fronts can bring the whole city to a halt. We aren’t very weather-proofed here, so a little snow and ice can close schools and shut down roads in the blink of an eye. 

Common Weather Challenges When Planning an Outdoor Wedding

Despite the generally favorable climate, Austin’s weather can be unpredictable. Spring thunderstorms can last just twenty minutes, but bring heavy rain and strong winds. Sudden temperature drops in winter evenings can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared with appropriate heating solutions. Understanding these challenges allows you to plan effectively and ensure a seamless experience.

Rainfall patterns and frequency

Rainfall peaks in the spring and early fall. May and October are the wettest months, with average precipitation around 4 inches. While rain can add a romantic element, it requires contingency planning.

• Spring Showers: Frequent but often short-lived. Thunderstorms can be intense, so monitoring weather forecasts is essential. This is where Doppler radar really comes in handy because you can track the thunderstorm’s movement towards or away from your event. Spring showers come and go quickly, but dump a lot of rain as they pass through. 
• Fall Rains: Generally lighter and misty. In early fall it’s more common to have a “drizzly day” that does little damage, but hampers the mood (and your hair plans). If you’re getting married in the fall consider a plan-B for your hair if it tends to frizz. 

Humidity levels and their impact

Speaking of hair, humidity levels in Austin can be high, particularly from May through September. High humidity can make temperatures feel hotter. 

• Guest Comfort: Provide hydration stations with water and refreshing beverages. Think about where the sun sets and guarantee your guests have access to shade. 
• Vendor Performance: High humidity can affect musical instruments, electronic equipment, and food quality. Some ceremony musicians with expensive instruments like will have riders in their contracts that they will not play in certain climates because of the potential damages. 
• Hair and Makeup: Humidity can impact hairstyles and makeup durability, so inform your stylist to use long-lasting, humidity-resistant products and consider a plan-B for your hair if it tends to poof or go flat with moisture. 

Wind conditions in different areas

I call wind the silent assassin. When you’re looking at a weather app, wind is just as important as rain when it comes to an outdoor event. I’ve seen massive floral arrangements go tumbling to the ground from big wind bursts. Smaller items like escort cards and bar menus don’t have a chance when the wind picks up, so always think in terms of a plan-B. 

Wind conditions vary depending on the venue’s location. 

• Hill Country Venues: Elevated areas may experience stronger winds, which can affect tent stability and décor. If you’re getting married at one of these venues, definitely consider the wind when designing the space: 
  • Ian’s Chapel at Camp Lucy – particularly the ceremony space on the hillside bluff 
  • Villa Antonia – those gorgeous views from the top of the hill come with a little risk
  • Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa – the lawn provides a gorgeous ceremony space but the wind can be fierce. 
• Lakeside Venues: Proximity to water can sometimes lead to breezier conditions. Our lakes are actually more like rivers and the banks of the lakes are at a higher elevation so we can sometimes get a wind-tunnel effect at venues like The Four Seasons Hotel Austin and Laguna Gloria. 

Conduct a site visit during a similar time of day and season as your planned wedding to assess wind conditions.

Choosing the Right Season for Your Event

Pros and cons of each season in Austin

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, October and November are highly sought after due to their mild temperatures and lower humidity. For what it’s worth, I did the heavy research when I was engaged and I decided on November 6th. Yes, the weather was glorious! 

Similarly, March and April are popular for their pleasant weather and natural beauty. These months offer a balance between comfortable temperatures and lower chances of extreme weather, making them ideal for outdoor celebrations.

Venue Features to Look For

Shade options and covered areas

Natural shade from trees or structures can significantly improve guest comfort. Look for features such as gazebos, pavilions, and pergolas that offer reliable shelter. Always assess the orientation of the venue to determine where the sun will be during your event times.

If the venue doesn’t have a solid rain or shade structure, tents and canopies can be customized to your décor but they cost a pretty penny. Do NOT consider a clear tent any time of year other than winter or early spring. The clear plastic acts as a magnifying glass, causing temperatures in the tent to rise quickly. Yes, they are super pretty. No, you may not have one for your summer evening wedding. 

Indoor backup spaces

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding on a budget, keep in mind that tents are pricey and indoor spaces provide a safety net against unexpected weather. You’re probably familiar with the term “rain plan”, but well executed events need heat plans too. Even if you can’t fit all of your guests inside, it’s nice to have an air conditioned space for older people to cool off when needed. Keep Grandma inside up until the very last minute when she walks down the aisle. After the ceremony, you’ll be grateful to have a cooler space to escape to! 

Heating and cooling solutions

Climate control solutions are essential for guest comfort.

Cooling Options: Fans, misting systems, and portable air conditioners can alleviate heat during warmer months. The large portable air conditioners can be an eye sore, but they give off the most cold air. Fans are great for muggy days, especially if you’re hosting a reception in a tent. The tent can block shade, but also traps heat, so you want fans to move the air around a bit. 

Heating Options: Outdoor heaters, fire pits, and heated tents can keep guests warm in cooler weather. I have a lot of experience here, and a few pro tips that will be super helpful: 

1. If you’re ordering propane heaters from a rental company, make sure they test every single one before they leave. Propane heaters are notorious for not working properly. In fact, I will order an extra two or three if budget allows because odds are they will not all work. 
2. Fire pits add ambiance, but they can smell. If you’re hosting a black tie wedding where your guests are wearing $600 gowns and $1,000 tuxedos, skip the wooden fire pit. No one wants to go home smelling like a camp fire. However, gas fire pits rock! 
3. Heated tents are the best option in very cold weather, but they aren’t perfect. Large heating appliances sit outside of the tent and funnel the heat through a small vent similar to the vents you have in your home. If it’s super cold, and the heater is on full blast, the guests sitting next to the vent are sweating while the guests in the middle of the tent are freezing. It can be helpful to add fans to your order to keep the hot air circulating. 
4. If you are renting a heating system (as opposed to the smaller stand-alone heaters) it is imperative that you pay extra to have a representative from the rental company onsite. Outdoor heating systems are finicky. 

Planning for Extreme Weather Scenarios

Dealing with unexpected heat waves

Heat waves can pose health risks and discomfort. I’ve had a small handful of weddings over my career where guests fainted. Keeping your guests comfortable is serious business. We have already discussed water stations and shade, but be sure to also inform guests to dress in lighter fabrics and consider offering fans or parasols.

If your event is at your home, plan to have a first aid kit that includes electrolyte packets and cooling packs. While you’re at it, I also recommend Benedryl, tylenol, and bandaids. Those are the items most frequently used in my wedding emergency kit. 

Preparing for sudden rain showers

My favorite pro-tip for unexpected rain is to have cheap beach towels and shower curtains on hand.  If you see a chance of thunderstorms, purchase as many towels and shower curtains as you can from Amazon, Target or Walmart. These are stores that take returns easily. 

Leave the shower curtains in the packaging. However, if you’re watching the doppler radar and you see a cluster of rain headed your way, the large rectangular shower curtains fit beautifully over 6’ and 8’ tables! After the rain passes (those showers tent to be quick in Central Texas) use the beach towels to wipe down the dancefloor and chairs. 

Strategies for windy conditions

Getting ready for wind is all about advance preparation. 

• Secure Décor: Use clamps, weights, and sturdy materials for decorations. Discuss these options with your florist leading up to the wedding if you are at a venue with wind gusts. 
• Sound Systems: Use windshields on microphones to prevent noise interference. A handheld mic tends to work better than a lapel microphone for outdoor ceremonies.
• Seating Arrangements: Position chairs and tables to minimize wind exposure.
• Attire: Advise the wedding party to consider hairstyles and attire that are wind-friendly.
• Seating Charts: Opt for seating charts that are in one piece and don’t include a bunch of small pieces that can fly away. 
• Candles: You need at least 3” of glass above the wick if you expect a real flame candle to last outside in a breeze. 

Working with Venue Managers

Questions to ask about weather preparedness

1. Contingency Plans: What indoor spaces are available in case of bad weather?
2. Equipment: Do they provide tents, heaters, or fans, or can they recommend reliable vendors?
3. Staff Support: How experienced is the staff in handling weather-related changes? Any horror stories you can share, so we know what to look out for? 

Understand venue policies for weather-related changes

1. Cost Implications: Are there additional fees for activating backup plans?
2. Decision Deadlines: By when do you need to decide to switch to a backup plan?
3. Vendor Coordination: How will the venue assist in communicating changes to vendors?

When picturing your perfect wedding day, it’s easy to imagine clear skies and sunshine. However, Mother Nature doesn’t always align with our plans. Not every wedding can have ideal weather, and that’s okay. With thoughtful preparation and a positive mindset, you can ensure your special day is memorable—rain or shine.

If forecasts predict rain on your wedding day, consider these ideas:

Rent a Tent Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to secure a tent. Rental companies often book up months in advance, especially during peak wedding season. Aim to reserve a tent at least four months before your wedding. This ensures you have a backup plan without scrambling at the last minute.

Develop a Rain Plan: Outline a comprehensive rain plan detailing how the ceremony and reception will proceed if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Share this plan with your vendors, wedding party, and venue staff so everyone knows what to expect.

Embrace the Rain: Rain can add a romantic and whimsical element to your wedding. Consider incorporating umbrellas into your décor or as photo props. Provide stylish rain boots for the bridal party. Embracing the weather can turn a potential damper into a delightful feature.

Stay Positive: If you remain cheerful and unbothered by the weather, guests will likely feel the same. Focus on the joy of the occasion rather than the forecast. Your mood and sentiment about the weather significantly impact how your guests feel. If you can stay calm and smile through it, the guests will think, “oh she is so in love, nothing could ruin this day!”. The alternative is guests pitying you and talking about the unfortunate weather. They will follow your lead. Also, yes – you will hear “Isn’t it good luck to have rain on your wedding day?” one-hundred times! Smile through it. 

Communicate Clearly: Inform your guests ahead of time if the weather might affect attire or logistics. This allows them to prepare appropriately and feel more comfortable during the event.

Provide Comfort Items: Offer umbrellas, fans, blankets, or sunscreen depending on the weather. Small gestures show your consideration and improve your guests’ experience.

Final Thoughts

When you’re planning an outdoor wedding, you can’t control the weather, but you can control how you respond to it. By planning ahead and maintaining a positive attitude, you’ll not only alleviate your own stress but also ensure your guests have a wonderful time. Remember, sometimes unexpected weather can lead to the most memorable and heartfelt moments of your wedding day.