Summer is nearly here, which places us in the peak of outdoor wedding season. Even though we can count on warmer temperatures during the summer months, there’s still one worry that plagues the best of brides and grooms: what if it rains?
Here we’ll delve into what a rainy day could mean for couples as they take the big plunge!
We all know how friends and family make plans to be there for the big day, where some invest quite a bit of time and money toward it. It is no surprise the frustration of those with outdoor weddings face when the forecast calls for rain and storms. However, it happens.
That is why it is essential to have a backup plan.
Making the best of it
This takes me back to the late 1990s when Billboard Top 40 pop music was heard everywhere. Blaring from speakers in nearly every public space were the popular lyrics, “it’s like rain on your wedding day” from Alanis Morissette’s hit song “Ironic”.
Back then, she seemed quite put off by the idea of a wet wedding, asking several times throughout the song, “isn’t it ironic, don’t ya think?”. Now, all these years later, I’ve wondered, is it really a bad omen if you end up with wet weather on your wedding day?
Come to find out, there are some deep roots to the superstitions that surround rain on your wedding day.
Wedding day rain a gain?
Rain in Hinduism is still considered sacred and something that is prayed for. According to Hindu tradition, a wet forecast is believed to bring good fortune in a long married life, which stems from ancient beliefs about nature, cycles and the science of tying a knot.
If it rains and the knot gets wet, then it becomes a much more difficult bond to loosen than if it was dry.
Hindu culture deeply believes in karma and universal laws of cause and effect on the soul. The cycle of life is of the utmost importance and rain is seen as a benefit to life and growth. Lord Indra, the king of Heaven or Swarga, was often prayed to when rain was dearly needed.
(Spectrum News File Photo)
In Italy, it was historically rumored that rain on your wedding could be considered a huge bonus! It boosts the cycle of nature that in the way a plant grows and thrives, so could a couple’s relationship.
Rain was seen to benefit not only greenery but also to symbolize fertility and reproduction in growing families.
(Spectrum News File Photo)
Documented rain superstitions span across many cultures and some are even read as a gift from God in biblical writings.
The Goddess Tefnut in Egyptian Culture was worshipped for bringing rain, whereas Lord Zeus, from Ancient Greek mythology, was the king who symbolized the sky.
Whether it be the influence of ancient writings from religions or folklore, rainy days come out as a cleansing agent of sorts that gets rid of old grievances and welcomes a fresh, renewed spirit. Perhaps this feeling of newness is what keeps newlyweds optimistic.
(Spectrum News File Photo)
If the thought of getting wet in your Sundays finery was a turnoff, think again! Rain on your special day could really bring some positive vibes.
For those who have to resort to plan B, make sure to check out some helpful tips from The Knot to keep your guests dry and comfortable if rain is in the forecast for your special day.
Perhaps it’s fun to chat about these superstitions, but also be sure to take it with a grain of salt, or should I say rice! Remember, life has a funny way of helping you out, even if it does rain on your wedding day!