At Mitchell Grove, couples often ask us how to prepare for unexpected weather. While Humboldt County weddings are usually blessed with mild, beautiful days — rarely climbing above the 70s and often staying lush and green all summer — rain can still make a surprise appearance.
Most couples rent a tent as an **affordable rain-insurance policy**. This October wedding is a great example: the couple rented a tent from The Party Place, and it fit perfectly on the lawn in front of the gazebo. Ironically, tents are usually rented for rain but end up being used more often for shade. Either way, having one in place gives peace of mind during a family-run wedding event.
Traditionally, May and October are the months most likely to bring showers, but in recent years we’ve seen surprises in June and even August. Since renting a tent last-minute can be difficult, couples need to decide their own risk tolerance early in the planning process.
Our advice: consider the tent as part of your wedding safety net. You may not need it, but if you do, you’ll be grateful it’s there — and if the skies stay clear, your guests will still appreciate the shade.