Outdoor Weddings in the UK: How to Plan for All Weather

The great British weather: beautiful… but unpredictable

Planning an outdoor wedding in the UK comes with one big question: what if it rains? Or worse - what if it’s windy, or too hot, or suddenly chilly after sunset? The truth is, no matter what season you pick, you need a plan that keeps your guests comfortable come rain or shine.

At Springbok, we’ve seen it all. Heatwaves in May, downpours in July, and golden autumn afternoons that turned into frosty evenings. The good news? With the right setup, you don’t have to gamble on the forecast.

Step 1: Choose a flexible shelter

A big part of weather-proofing your wedding is your choice of cover. Traditional marquees are one option, but stretch tents bring extra flexibility. Their free-form design means you can:

• Pitch them high and airy on a sunny day

• Drop them lower and enclose the sides if the wind picks up

• Attach them to buildings, terraces or trees to fit any garden or venue

Most importantly, they’re fully waterproof, wind-rated and fire-retardant — designed to handle the quirks of British weather while still looking elegant.

Step 2: Think seasonal

Different seasons bring different challenges:

• Spring: Gorgeous flowers, but showers are common. Make sure walkways and flooring are covered to avoid muddy shoes.

• Summer: Long days and warmer evenings - but don’t forget shade and hydration. Stretch tents provide natural airflow and shade without boxing guests in.

• Autumn: Crisp air and stunning golden light, though it can get chilly after dark. Add heaters and cosy lighting to keep the vibe warm.

• Winter: Possible frost or rain. With flooring, heating and sides, a stretch tent can still feel intimate and snug - perfect for a rustic feel at your event.

Step 3: Flooring matters

Grass can quickly turn slippery in rain, and heels aren’t friends with lawns. A good matting or flooring option makes a huge difference:

• Keeps the space dry underfoot

• Protects dresses and shoes

• Adds a polished, finished look

At Springbok we supply woven matting sized to each tent, so your aisle, dining area and dance floor stay comfortable and safe.

Step 4: Light up the atmosphere

Lighting isn’t just about creating mood — it also helps guests move safely when skies get dark. Some popular options:

• Festoon lighting: the classic festival look, warm and inviting

• Fairy lights: magical and romantic, perfect for evening ambience

• Uplighters: add glow to the tent canopy and highlight décor

Lighting also works with the weather — you can brighten things up if it’s cloudy, or create a twinkly, romantic glow as the sun sets.

Step 5: Keep guests comfortable

Little touches go a long way:

• Blankets or throws for cooler evenings

• Fans or shade for hot spells

• Covered bar and catering areas so service runs smoothly in any weather

The aim is to keep everyone relaxed and focused on celebrating, not the forecast.

Step 6: Have a plan B (and C)

A confident backup plan is the ultimate stress-buster. That doesn’t mean abandoning your outdoor dream - it just means being practical:

• Use a stretch tent as the main cover so you’re ready either way

• Plan your ceremony spot to allow for quick changes if the weather turns

• Brief suppliers so they know the setup if sides need to come down or areas need to be rearranged

With a versatile tent and an experienced crew, changing the plan on the day can be seamless.

Why couples choose stretch tents for UK weddings

We’ve helped couples across the UK create outdoor weddings that feel effortless, whatever the weather. Stretch tents deliver:

• Elegance without compromise

• Peace of mind in uncertain forecasts

• Atmosphere that flows with gardens, courtyards or countryside settings

Ready to weather-proof your wedding?

If you’re planning a wedding, Springbok can help you design an outdoor setup that’s beautiful, versatile and ready for any forecast.

👉 Get in touch today and let’s make your big day unforgettable.... whatever the skies bring.