If part of your wedding is outdoors, make a plan for moving it inside before you book. The most useful alternative is one you would be happy to use, with enough space for your guests and a clear way to switch arrangements.

See the indoor version

Ask the venue to show you where the ceremony, drinks and photographs could happen in poor weather. Look at the actual rooms and ask for a layout for your numbers.

Think about the atmosphere as well as the capacity. Will there be somewhere to sit during drinks? Can people talk comfortably? Where will everyone go while a room is prepared for the meal?

If a marquee or temporary shelter is part of the plan, discuss the site, access, flooring and weather arrangements with the venue and the company supplying it. Ask them to explain any limits and who is responsible for decisions.

Walk the routes between everything

Follow a guest’s journey from arrival to departure. Include the walk from parking, the route to the toilets and the place where taxis will collect people.

Consider anyone using a wheelchair, walking aid or pushchair, as well as guests who may need somewhere to rest. Ask the venue about suitable routes if the ground is wet.

Umbrellas can help with a short walk, but do not let them stand in for a proper access plan.

Decide who makes the call

Agree with the venue when the indoor or outdoor decision needs to be made. It may affect furniture, flowers, sound equipment and the time suppliers need to set up.

Choose a named contact for the decision and make sure your suppliers know who it is. Keep both versions of the schedule together, with the changed locations clearly marked.

You should not need to answer the same weather question from several people while getting ready.

Keep the details flexible

Ask your florist which arrangements can be moved, who will move them and where they would go. Talk to your photographer about indoor options and whether the schedule has room for a short outdoor session if the weather changes.

Check where coats, wet umbrellas and spare shoes can be left. If you are providing umbrellas, agree who will put them out and collect them afterwards.

Share only what guests need

Give guests practical advice about shoes, outdoor walks or a change of arrival point when it is relevant. Keep directions short and put the latest version somewhere easy to find.

Once you have agreed the plan, let the people responsible carry it out. You have already made the important decisions.