What Happens When Rain Threatens Your Willowbrook Outdoor Ceremony
Choosing an outdoor ceremony at Willowbrook means picturing yourself by the pond or in the woods surrounded by loved ones. Don’t get worried about the forecast showing rain. Take a deep breath. We will help you prepare, stay flexible, and keep your dream moment beautiful, no matter what the weather brings.
Your Rain Day Strategy is Already in Place
At Willowbrook, we've thought through every weather scenario so you don't have to lose sleep over it. We have two solid backup plans that keep your ceremony just as meaningful, whether Mother Nature cooperates or not.
Option One: Moving Under Our Roof
Your first backup brings you inside to our climate-controlled Main Hall. Our indoor space comfortably seats up to 250 guests with the same white padded folding chairs we use for outdoor ceremonies. The hall creates an intimate atmosphere where your vows carry clearly to every guest, and everyone stays comfortable regardless of what's happening outside.
Option Two: The Willowbrook Pavilion
Your second option keeps you outdoors while providing full weather protection. The Willowbrook Pavilion serves as our designated rainy day backup, giving you that open-air feeling with a roof overhead. This space works beautifully for ceremonies up to 150 guests and maintains the natural setting you originally wanted.
The Decision-Making Process
We monitor weather conditions closely and discuss backup plans with you well before your ceremony time. You're never making last-minute decisions alone. Our team walks you through both options during your planning process, so you'll know exactly what each space looks like and feels like before your wedding day arrives.
Your Ceremony Elements Stay the Same
Rain doesn’t change the heart of your ceremony. Your personal vows, processional music, and carefully chosen readings all unfold exactly as planned. If weather shifts the day, we simply transition everything to a covered space that keeps you and your guests dry and comfortable. Whether you exchange vows beneath the handcrafted iron doors of Willowbrook’s Walk In the Park or within another one of our signature settings, the experience remains just as meaningful.
What This Means for Your Photos
Both backup locations offer their own photo opportunities. The Main Hall features elegant architectural details, while the Pavilion provides a covered outdoor setting with views of our grounds. Your photographer can take stunning pictures wherever you choose your photographer will find beautiful light in every space.
Peace of Mind with Flexible Backup Plans
Having two backup options means you can move forward with confidence. You don't need to stress about weather reports or have backup conversations with your vendors. We handle the logistics, and you focus on getting married.
The reality is that most couples who worry about rain end up with clear skies. But knowing you have two beautiful alternatives lets you relax and enjoy your engagement period instead of checking weather apps obsessively.
Conclusion:
Rain on your wedding day won't affect the joy or significance of your ceremony. It just moves your "I do" moment to a different beautiful spot on our property. Willowbrook, where moments become magical, rain or shine.
Ready to see both our outdoor ceremony locations and backup spaces in person? Email us at willowbrookofdelaware@gmail.com or call 302.228.0787 to schedule your tour.
FAQs
When do you make the final decision about moving ceremonies indoors?
We monitor weather conditions closely and discuss the decision with couples well before ceremony time, so you're never scrambling at the last minute.
Can all 250 guests fit comfortably in the backup locations?
Our Main Hall accommodates up to 250 guests with the same white padded folding chairs used outdoors. The Pavilion works beautifully for ceremonies up to 150 guests.
Do backup ceremony locations cost extra?
Both rain backup options are included in your ceremony location package at no additional charge.
What happens to our reception if we use the Pavilion for the ceremony?
The Pavilion can serve double duty, or you can move your reception to our Main Hall, which seats up to 250 guests comfortably.