Rain On Your Wedding Day Good Luck? (+10 Other Good Luck Charms)

This blog post is about whether or not rain on your wedding day is good luck. This blog post also contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.

There’s something incredibly romantic about rain — the rhythmic patter of droplets, the petrichor wafting in the air, and the sense of freshness and renewal it leaves in its wake. But what happens when those rain clouds decide to burst open on your wedding day? A dampened wedding dress or a soggy outdoor venue might not be part of your perfect wedding day vision. However, many cultures across the globe view rain on a wedding day as a symbol of good luck. Let’s delve into the symbolism of rain, how to prepare for it, and why, ultimately, it could be a sign of good luck on your wedding day.

Rain: A Symbol of Cleansing and Fertility

Water, in many cultures, is a purifying element. The idea of rain, particularly on your wedding day, carries the significance of a cleansing process. It signifies washing away the past, letting go of individual hardships, or any regrets or disappointments that either partner might bring into the union. Essentially, it suggests a fresh start. This age-old belief is shared by different cultures worldwide, adding a spiritual dimension of good luck to a rain filled wedding day.

Additionally, rain is associated with fertility in agriculture, symbolizing prosperity and growth. For a marriage, this could be interpreted as an omen for a fruitful life, abundant in harmony, understanding, and possibly children. The water that falls from the sky is necessary for plants to grow, mirroring how essential love, patience, and care are for a marriage to flourish and making it good luck to rain on your wedding day.

Read more: What Does Snow On Your Wedding Day Mean?

Tying the Knot: A Sign of Unity and Strength

Interestingly, the phrase “tying the knot,” often used to denote getting married, is believed to have originated from the ancient Celtic tradition of handfasting. In this ritual, the hands of the couple were tied together to symbolize their union. Here’s where the rain comes into play: a knot that gets wet is incredibly challenging to untie. Therefore, if it rains on your wedding day, it metaphorically indicates that your marriage is just as hard to unravel, symbolizing unity and strength in your bond. This again makes it good luck to rain on your wedding day.

Balancing Expectations and Embracing the Unexpected

Despite its symbolic significance to good luck, rain might not be on your wedding wish list. After all, it’s only natural to envision clear skies and perfect weather on such a momentous occasion. However, embracing the unexpected is part of life and, more importantly, a significant aspect of any marriage. Seeing the silver lining and choosing to interpret rain as a sign of good luck reflects an optimistic and resilient mindset. This is a key ingredient in a successful and happy marital life.

Good Luck Charms: Recognizing Signs of Fortune (Like Rain) on Your Wedding Day

Given the significance of your wedding day, it’s no wonder that various cultures across the world associate certain signs and symbols with good luck for the wedded journey ahead. While these traditions may vary, their underlying message often remains the same – a wish for happiness, prosperity, and love. Let’s explore some signs, other than rain, traditionally viewed as good luck for your wedding day.

1. Seeing a Spider

Many of us are not fans of spiders, especially on such an important day. But in English folklore, much like rain, finding a spider in your wedding dress is good luck. It signifies happiness and prosperity coming your way. So, before you scream and shake it off, take a moment to appreciate the little creature’s auspicious presence.

2. The New Moon

Many cultures believe getting married during a new moon brings good luck. The new moon represents a new beginning, symbolizing a fresh start for your relationship as you step into married life. Some believe this lunar phase can attract abundance and growth in your life together.

4. Birds

Spotting certain birds on your wedding day has long been considered a sign of good luck. A dove sighting symbolizes peace and tranquility in the marriage. Swans, known for their lifelong partnerships, signify enduring love and commitment. Spotting a pair can mean your love for each other will endure for a lifetime. This is also why many couples release doves on their wedding day.

5. Chimney Sweeps

An old English tradition considered it good luck if a bride saw a chimney sweep on her wedding day, much like rain, because chimney sweeps were thought to have the power to ward off evil spirits. Today, some couples in the United Kingdom even hire chimney sweeps to attend their weddings, carrying on this centuries-old tradition.

6. Breaking Glass

In many cultures, the act of breaking something (and then clearing it up together) is considered good luck. This ritual, common in Italian and Jewish weddings, symbolizes the permanence of marriage. Just like the shattered pieces of glass can’t be put back together, your lives, once joined in marriage, can’t be separated.

7. Horseshoes

Horseshoes have been a symbol of good luck for centuries. In Irish and Celtic cultures, bringing a horseshoe to a wedding or incorporating it into the bridal attire can attract good fortune and ward off evil. The horseshoe should be U-shaped, pointing upwards, to ‘hold’ the luck. If there is no chance of rain on your wedding day, bring a horseshoe for good luck!

8. Wedding Bells

Ringing bells on your wedding day is another sign of good luck. The loud noise is believed to scare away evil spirits. Today, the term “wedding bells” is metaphorically associated with wedding celebrations. Some couples give mini bells as wedding favors, keeping this charming tradition alive.

9. The Lucky Sixpence

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in her shoe.” The last part of this old rhyme refers to a British wedding tradition where a bride puts a sixpence coin in her shoe. It’s believed to bring wealth and prosperity in the married life. Also a great, and easy idea if rain is no where to be seen on your wedding day, and ensure good luck!

10. Weddings in December

According to an old saying, “When December snows fall fast, marry and true love will last.” December, with its festive spirit, is considered a lucky month to get married.

While these signs and traditions are intriguing, it’s important to remember that the real good luck in any marriage comes from love, mutual respect, and understanding. Signs of good luck such as rain can be a fun part of your wedding day, but the true blessings in your life will come from the bond you and your partner continue to build throughout your married life.

Preparing for a Rainy Wedding Day To Ensure Good Luck

Now, if you’re in the process of planning your wedding and there’s a chance of rain, being prepared can help turn the situation to your advantage. Here are some tips to help you make the best of rain on your wedding day and bring you all the good luck:

1. Rain-Proof Your Wedding:

Check weather websites well in advance and discuss with your wedding planner or venue about a plan B in case of rain. Consider tents or marquees for outdoor weddings, and make sure indoor venues have enough space to accommodate all your guests comfortably. Don’t forget to check if your venue has ample provisions for guests to leave their wet coats and umbrellas. Good luck on your wedding day when rain is involved starts with preparation!

Our Favorite Highly Rated Wedding Tents For Rainy Days

2. Embrace the Rain:

Incorporate the rain into your wedding photos. Discuss with your photographer about creative ways to capture the beauty of the rain. Using props like colorful or lace umbrellas and rain boots can add a unique and whimsical touch to your wedding pictures, turning your luck around.

3. Inform Your Guests:

If there’s a possibility of rain, let your guests know beforehand. They can come prepared with appropriate clothing and umbrellas.

A quick email or text to your guest could be something like this

Dear Friends And Family,

We’re eagerly anticipating our wedding day and can’t wait to share it with you! However, there’s a chance of rain in the forecast.

Please consider bringing umbrellas, rain jackets, or suitable footwear just in case. We’ve planned for a beautiful celebration, rain or shine, with covered areas available.

Your presence means the world to us, and we’re excited to celebrate together!

Warm regards,

[Your Names]

You could also provide umbrellas and ponchos at your venue.

Our Favorite Rainy Day Wedding Items

Read more: How Cold is Too Cold for an Outdoor Wedding?

Rain On Your Wedding Day: A Good Luck Story to Tell

Remember, every element of your wedding day contributes to a unique story — your story. Rain can add a distinctive touch to this tale, a touch that is steeped in cultural symbolism and personal significance. After all, years down the line, wouldn’t it be wonderful to reminisce about how you danced in the rain on your wedding day, a symbol of good luck that marked the beginning of your beautiful journey together?

So, Is Rain On Your Wedding Day Good Luck?

While rain on your wedding day might initially seem like a dampener, it carries with it a deeply ingrained symbolism of renewal, fertility, unity, resilience, and ultimately good luck. These are all elements that are intrinsic to the journey of marriage. So, instead of fretting over the downpour, embrace it, prepare for it, and let it become a beautiful, lucky part of your unique love story.