When to Have a PNW Wedding: Why It’s Perfect, No Matter the Weather

Let’s talk about something couples ask all the time, when is the best time to have a PNW wedding, and what if it rains?! I get it. If you’re planning your wedding in the Pacific Northwest, you’ve probably checked the weather app like… a hundred times. Rain is kinda part of our brand up here, but here’s the thing—it doesn’t mean your day won’t be absolutely amazing.

As a PNW wedding photographer, I’ve worked weddings in every kind of weather: sunshine, clouds, sideways rain, you name it. And let me tell you, they’ve all been beautiful. M & C’s wedding at Ruston Way Waterfront in Tacoma is proof that a PNW wedding in early March can still bring alllll the magic, even without full sun.

The Truth About PNW Weather (And Why It’s Not the Enemy)

Here’s the deal. The PNW wedding season technically kicks off around late spring, but that doesn’t mean earlier dates are off the table. M & C got married in early March, and while it was cloudy, the rain stayed away for the most part! The mountain didn’t fully peek out (classic), but the views of the water and the moody skies? So pretty!

We had some wind, but everyone just rolled with it. And honestly? The movement in the bride’s dress and veil added so much energy to the photos! PNW weather is what it is—but when you embrace it instead of fight it, your day will feel like you!

Bride and groom holding hands by the rocky shore with a red cargo ship in the background, capturing the calm beauty of a PNW wedding.

PNW Wedding Seasons: What You Should Know

Here’s a quick rundown of what the seasons can actually look like:

November–April

Expect some rain. Sometimes it’s a sprinkle, sometimes it’s a downpour, sometimes it’s just… misty and moody all day. If you’re planning a PNW wedding in this timeframe, definitely have a Plan B if your ceremony is outdoors. But don’t panic—cloudy skies are actually amazing for photography! The light gets beautifully diffused, and everything is just even and dreamy.

May–June

Transitional weather—could be sunny, could be wet. Bring an umbrella and a go-with-the-flow attitude, and you’ll be golden.

July–August

Your best bet for sunshine. Just remember, even in our mild state, it can still hit the high 80s or 90s. And that midday sun? Harsh. Golden hour is where it’s at!

September–October

Still lots of sunshine, but cooler temps creeping in. It’s cozy, it’s colorful, and honestly, one of the dreamiest times to get married here.

Tips for Embracing the PNW Wedding Vibes

Accept the weather – Trust me on this one. It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your day when you’ve already made peace with the fact that it might drizzle.
Have a backup plan – Whether it’s a tent, an indoor option, or a super cute stash of clear umbrellas, having a Plan B = less stress.
Don’t be afraid of the clouds – From a photography standpoint, clouds are your besties. They filter the light and keep everything soft and romantic.
Consider the charm – Misty mountains, moss-covered everything, fog rolling over the water… it’s moody, dramatic, and SO pretty.
Rain is good luck! – At least that’s what they say, right?!

M & C’s March Wedding at Ruston Way Waterfront

Okay, let’s talk about M & C’s day for a sec because it’s a perfect example of why a PNW wedding can shine no matter the forecast. Their ceremony was held right along the waterfront in Tacoma, and even without the mountain out in full view, the atmosphere was dreamy.

PNW wedding ceremony arch with yellow and white florals framing a serene water view under an overcast sky.

Bride smiling at the groom during their vows, surrounded by bridesmaids holding bouquets of yellow and white flowers. The sky was overcast but dry, and the wind gave just enough movement for some really romantic portraits. The outdoor ceremony was full of natural light (yes, even on a cloudy day), and I used on-camera flash to make sure we didn’t lose the stunning backdrop of the Puget Sound.

Surrounded by clapping friends, the newlyweds beam with joy after tying the knot at their intimate PNW wedding.

Their reception was held inside the hotel, and I used my Profoto flash there too to keep everything looking crisp and cozy. It was warm, inviting, and felt like one big hug of a celebration.

Light + Photography

Here’s where my photography brain kicks in. Lighting matters—but not in the way you think!

Cloudy skies actually act like a giant softbox. It’s nature’s filter! Your skin looks amazing, your dress doesn’t blow out in the highlights, and your photos end up looking super clean and balanced. Sure, I’ll bring out the flash when needed (like indoors or at the reception), but I’m also 100% ready to embrace the natural light and make it work with us.

The PNW has this magical glow, even in the rain. It’s the ferns, the deep greens, the mist hanging in the trees. That atmosphere? You can’t fake it. It makes every wedding feel unique and cinematic.

Planning Tips for a PNW Wedding

If you’re planning your day anywhere from Seattle to the coast or the mountains in between, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Plan for flexibility – Build in time for weather changes or last-minute venue tweaks.
Communicate with vendors – Let everyone know your Plan B so no one’s scrambling.
Hire pros who know the PNW – Seriously. We’ve dealt with sideways rain and sun at the same time. We’ve got you.
Bring backup shoes – Wet grass + heels = no thank you. Trust me.
Keep your energy up – Don’t let the weather dictate your vibe.

Why I Love PNW Weddings (and Why You Will Too)

There’s something wildly romantic about getting married in a place that feels alive. The PNW doesn’t try to be perfect—it just is. It’s raw, it’s moody, it’s peaceful, and powerful all at once. Whether you’re standing by the water, in the middle of the forest, or under a cozy covered patio with string lights above, your wedding here will be full of beauty and meaning.

Even if it rains. Even if the mountain doesn’t come out. Even if your veil gets tangled in the wind. It’s all part of the story—and that story? It’s gonna be SO good!

PNW Wedding Photographer | Photography by EH

Ready to embrace whatever the weather brings? I’m here for it. I’ll bring the backup umbrellas, the creative timeline ideas, and all the calm energy you need. Whether it’s early spring or peak summer, your PNW wedding deserves to be documented with care and love—and I’d be honored to be the one who gets to do that. Contact me through my contact form!

Vendors:

Venue- IG @silvercloud.pointruston

DJ+Emcee IG @bam_eventsservices

Florist IG @theenchantedfloristtacoma

Bridal Cheesecake IG @corinabakery

Hair IG @chelseyb_hair

Rentals IG @penniesrentals @alexanderpartyrentals @americanpartyplace

Stationary-Signage IG @honest.calligraphy

Coordinator IG @pennies.events