Spring weddings in the Canadian Rocky Mountains can be awe-inspiring and breathtaking. They also have risks, especially if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony. It’s been said that the only thing reliable about Spring weather in the Canadian Rockies is that it’s variable. If you’re getting married in the mountains, you need to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature brings! It might rain, snow, sunshine or a combination!

Does this mean you should avoid a Spring wedding in the Rockies? Absolutely not! Endlessly stressing about the weather isn’t the answer either. In the Canadian Rockies the weather can change drastically from day to day and even substantially throughout the day. Praying to the weather gods might work for some, but a more realistic approach is to expect some wet conditions. Be informed and know what to expect. Having a plan is the answer! If the weather turns out to be warm and sunny, Yay, count your blessings!

 Here’s 5 tips to better enjoy your Spring wedding:

1. Have a back-up plan if you’re planning an outdoor, Spring wedding ceremony. It’s not only good sense, it’s extremely wise! Even if conditions look great, a sudden storm may move in swiftly. Think of all your guests! Sitting in cool, damp conditions on wet chairs is not very comfortable. Your guests won’t enjoy getting wet! Booking a venue for an indoor back-up may cost you a few hundred dollars, but it’s well worth the investment!
2. Check the local weather conditions the night before and again on wedding day morning. The weather office in Banff has an up-to-date recorded message that gives the daily forecast, weather warnings and advisories for Banff and area. Their number is 1-(403)762-2088. It doesn’t hurt to check road conditions either. You can call 511 in Alberta or check AMA for local driving conditions. Your photographer may want to check out the trail conditions too if you’re planning on getting outdoor photos in the Park. Check out this link on Parks Canada for up to date conditions.
3. Make your weather call early. Your wedding venue and your planner will need to know where the ceremony will be held so that they can set up. It’s important to ensure that the people setting out your chairs and decor have adequate time to do this. It’s especially important if your indoor back-up space is in the same room as your reception. Most venues require at least two hours to “flip” the room from ceremony to reception (changing the room configuration, setting out tables, linens, silverware etc). Your planner will need time on top of that to set out your decor and make the room look beautiful.  If everyone is waiting on you to make a decision about the ceremony, it will only add extra pressure to make things look perfect.
4.  Dress for the conditions. You may want to add a stylish shrug over your gown so you aren’t chilly during the ceremony. You’ll also want to be prepared for precipitation and cooler temperatures when you head out for wedding day photos. Take clothes that will protect you from the wind, rain and snow. This may mean dressing in layers, having a sweater or stylish rain coat, and having proper footwear. Five inch heels may look beautiful on your bridesmaids, but if the ground is uneven, muddy or slippery a pair of waterproof boots or shoes are better! This is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of some cute photo ops of you wearing stylish rubber boots and carrying a pretty umbrella. Ensure that you have enough umbrellas for your entire wedding party too!
5. Have a positive attitude! This is one of the most important tips for your Spring wedding in the mountains! You can’t change the weather, so you might as well embrace it! Not only do you want to look happy in your photos, but you’ll want to truly enjoy your wedding day. A positive, relaxed attitude can go a long way. Besides, rain on your wedding day is supposed to bring good luck to the marriage! If you’re really lucky you just might see a double rainbow. That has to be good luck right?

Photo courtesy of RW Photography

Photo courtesy of Orange Girl.

Here’s a little bonus info. if you’re planning a Spring wedding in Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper or Emerald Lake Lodge (Field, BC):

May and June brings a fair amount precipitation to the mountains and often with it, cooler temperatures. Though temperatures can be warm during the day, they can drop to just a few degrees above zero overnight. According to Environment Canada this is what you can expect during the Spring months in the Canadian Rockies:

Average Temperatures and Precipitation Levels:

Banff Townsite:

May – High temp. 15 degrees celcius and low temp. 2 degrees celcius

June – High temp. 19 degrees celcius and low temp. 5 degrees celcius

May – 62mm

June – 68mm

Lake Louise: 

May – High temp. 13 degrees celcius and low temp. -1 degrees celcius 

June – High temp. 17 degrees celcius and low temp. 3 degrees celcius

May – 40mm

June – 54mm

Jasper Townsite:

May – High temp. 16 degrees celcius and low temp. 3 degrees celcius

June – High temp. 20 degrees celcius and low temp. 7 degrees celcius

May – 31mm

June – 51mm

Field, BC (Yoho National Park):

May – High temp. 15 degrees celcius and low temp. 2 degrees celcius

June – High temp. 19 degrees celcius and low temp. 6 degrees celcius

May – 54mm

June – 79mm

Source: Currentresults.com / Environment Canada. Meteorological Service of Canada. Canadian Climate Normals 1981-2010

Photo courtesy of Eric Daigle Photography