While Rochester is known for its unpredictable weather, you don’t have to let weather be the primary consideration for all your wedding decisions. Yes, we’ve gotten snow in April and October alike in Rochester. Sure, the sky can be gray and gloomy one moment and sunny and blue the next. But we’ve got some tips for you that’ll help you pull off your dream Rochester wedding in any season.
Winter

Credits: Planning and Coordination: Olive Fine Weddings & Events, Venue: The MRKT Loft, Photographer: RachelLizPhotography, Rentals: McCarthy Tents & Events, Men’s Accessories: One Custom Clothier, Gowns and Hair Accessories: Lovely Bride
A winter wedding? In Rochester? Trust me, it’s not only doable, but it can be gorgeous and memorable! St. Joseph’s Park in downtown Rochester is a popular wedding venue, and a lovely outdoor wedding there in winter last year made the news! You really only need a handful of things to make an outdoor winter wedding ceremony work: a clear tent (so you can watch the snow fall), portable heaters, and maybe a hot cocoa bar so guests can stay warm before heading to an indoor reception.
When you get married during the off-season, like winter, you’ll also have less competition for booking your dream vendors. Have a favorite local photographer or baker? You may have a better chance of snagging them in winter!
Spring

Credits: Photography: Alexandra Meseke Photography, Floral Design: Flowerwell, Glassware, Crossback Chairs, Cocktail Tables + Linen: McCarthy Tents & Events, Hair + Makeup: Special Occasion Hair Design, Dress: Lovely Bride, Tuxedo: The Black Tux
Although spring comes late to Rochester, spring weddings can be pretty fantastic because you miss the craziness that is late June to early September (aka, peak busy season for Rochester weddings). A huge upside to spring weddings in Rochester? All the flowers are blooming! Lilacs and magnolias galore. Another added bonus to spring weather is cloud coverage. While that may not sound ideal, it’s actually great for getting the right lighting for photography. Just pick out a tent so your guests will be covered, safe and sound, in case of a spring shower!
Summer
Summer is a popular time for weddings. And for good reason! The days are longer, you have sunlight well into the evening, and you can dance the night away. Flowers, fruits, and veggies are in season, so you don’t have many limitations with your floral arrangements or food selections. Just make sure you rent a tent, because even in Rochester and the Finger Lakes, it can get hot out there under the sweltering sun! You don’t want to create a greenhouse effect because you didn’t have any shade during your whole ceremony and reception.
Fall

Credits: Phtoography: Jill Studio, Reception: The LeRoyan at Mercy Grove, Rentals:McCarthy Tents & Events; Flowers: Wegmans, Wedding Planner- Starlit Events
Fall is one of everyone’s favorite seasons in Rochester. It’s just so beautiful! From the leaves changing colors all around us to the slightly cooler temperatures, there’s a lot to love about autumn. The weather in the fall is a bit more reliable, too–you don’t have to worry about an unexpected blizzard.
There are tons of other perks to fall weddings, too. For example, you can still get married outside! If you aim for late September or early October, you can take full advantage of the stunning fall foliage in Upstate New York, rent a tent, and have an absolutely dreamy autumn wedding. You may even be able to save a little bit of money–the foliage provides so much vibrant decoration that you could reduce your budget for flowers and go with a more minimalist approach.
Which season do you plan to get married in? You really can’t go wrong! We’d love to help make your special day perfect…contact us to get started.
Emily Hessney Lynch is the Director of I Heart ROC, where she interviews Rochesterians about what they love most in our city. Emily will be covering all things wedding for McCarthy Tents & Events so check back often to read her posts as you plan your wedding.
Emily is a voracious reader, a coffee enthusiast, and the proud mother of two rescue dogs. You can follow her on Twitter at @servemethesky.