One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is, “What happens if it rains on our Savannah wedding day?”

While we always hope for sunshine, Savannah’s charm shines through no matter what the weather is like on your wedding day. That said, Savannah does have its rainier months, June-September typically being the wettest. (Our driest season is November-April, but rain can happen any time of year.) Because of this, we require all of our couples to have a rain backup plan in place before the big day. Having a pre-decided plan helps us act quickly and keeps the day stress-free, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate. We want you to feel at ease knowing ahead of time what happens if it rains on your wedding day!

Photo by Apt. B Photo

The good news? Even on rainy days, we often get breaks in the rain long enough for the ceremony. But when the rain lingers, it can create an incredibly romantic and magical atmosphere—think rain-soaked brick sidewalks reflecting Savannah’s flickering gas lamps. Here are a few of our favorite rain plans that turn a rainy day into a memorable experience:

1. Embrace the Rain

One of the simplest ways to make the most of rainy weather is by embracing it – either saying vows as the rain falls, or under umbrellas! We especially love clear umbrellas – they add a whimsical, intimate touch and allow Savannah’s stunning backdrops to shine through, even in the rain. Plus, rain-soaked photos can feel incredibly romantic and unique!

You can get our favorite clear umbrellas on Amazon! Either order two for you, or enough for all of your guests.

See how this could look: 
Kaylyn + Matt (said their vows as the rain fell lightly on them, with guests holding multi-colored umbrellas)

Nikki + Michael (held clear umbrellas while they said their vows in the rain)

:auren + Shawn (finished their vows as rain started to pour!)

Photos by Apt. B Photo

2. Use the Gazebo in Whitefield Square

The gazebo in Whitefield Square is not just iconic but also a perfect rain backup option. Surrounded by lush greenery, the gazebo provides shelter while still offering a cozy and scenic setting for your vows. Whether there’s a drizzle or steady rain, this spot keeps the day intimate and beautiful. If you want to ensure this spot is available, you can opt for a permit – even if your plan for a sunny day is to get married at another spot. Most of our couples who use this option just have the bride, groom and officiant stand in the gazebo, with their guests under umbrellas outside – but you can even get about 10 guests into the gazebo with you if needed! It’s also a great spot for covered family photos, even if your ceremony is in a different square.

See how this could look:
Kirsten + Kenny

Bryann + Justin

3. Get Married at Your Airbnb

Savannah is home to countless charming Airbnbs with beautiful interiors and exteriors, making them a great rain backup option. If the weather turns sour, your Airbnb could double as a quaint and private ceremony space. Many homes in Savannah exude character and charm, creating a romantic atmosphere for your elopement.

See how this could look:

Trista + Joseph (married in their Jekyll Island Airbnb living room at sunrise)

Tracy + Scott (waited for the rain to lighten up and opted for a quick ceremony on their Airbnb’s back porch)

Photo by Apt. B Photo

4. Book a Versatile Celebration Space

When planning your post-ceremony celebration, consider a venue that can double as a ceremony space in case of rain. Savannah has several versatile venues that offer stunning indoor or covered patio options for exchanging vows. These are a few of our favorites:

• Common on Broughton
• Cha Bella
• B. Matthews
• Vic’s on the River

Choosing a space that works for both your celebration and as a backup ceremony location ensures your day stays seamless.

We haven’t had a couple need to use this option for rain yet, but here’s a photo of a ceremony held inside Vic’s on the River – such a gorgeous space!

5. Get Married at a Historic Savannah Inn or Bed & Breakfast

Many historic inns or hotels in Savannah offer the perfect blend of charm and convenience, making them a great option for where to stay and also a spot to use for your rain backup plan. Whether it’s a cozy indoor parlor or a covered porch option, these inns provide romantic and weather-friendly alternatives for your ceremony. These venues usually require a fee and reservation for the space ahead of time to ensure it can be used as a ceremony rain backup plan – even if you’re staying there as a guest. Make sure to reach out to them as soon as possible!

Some of our favorite options include:

• The Gastonian
• Hamilton-Turner Inn
• Forsyth Park Inn
• Kehoe House
• Hotel Bardo

By planning ahead and requesting access to these beautiful spaces, you can ensure your elopement remains magical, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

See how this could look:

Amy + Justin (reserved an indoor space at Hotel Bardo)

Natalie + Aaron (used the covered porch connected to the Honeymoon Suite at the Gastonian)

 

Photo by Apt. B Photo

Make the Most of What Happens When It Rains on Your Savannah Wedding Day

Rain isn’t just a challenge—it’s an opportunity to capture magical photos! Whether you use umbrellas or embrace the rain without them, the reflections on the brick streets and lush greenery glistening with raindrops create an unforgettable backdrop.

 

Photo by Apt. B Photo

Photo by Taylor Brown

Photo by Apt. B Photo

Photo by Taylor Brown

Photo by Apt. B Photo

We hope this encouraged you that there are plenty of beautiful options for what happens if it rains on your Savannah wedding day! By incorporating a solid rain backup plan, you can make rain a memorable and romantic part of your Savannah elopement rather than an inconvenience. Rain or shine, Savannah’s charm never fades, making it the perfect place to say “I do.”

Still Have Questions About What Happens if it Rains on Your Savannah Wedding Day?

No matter what the forecast holds, your elopement should feel effortless, joyful, and completely stress-free. A little rain doesn’t have to derail your plans—with the right backup options, you’ll still have a beautiful, meaningful day.

If you have any questions—whether about rain plans, elopement logistics, or how the Savannah Elopement Package makes everything seamless—reach out anytime. I’m happy to help.

Let’s Chat