5 Things I Always Recommend Bringing to a May Wedding (and Why It Matters)
May in Edmonton is the ultimate trickster month. Morning +6 °C with a sharp northern wind, afternoon +22 °C and sunshine, evening back to chilly, and at any moment a light rain can start. After years of shooting May weddings, I’ve learned that the difference between a “good” day and an “unforgettable” one often comes down to five small items almost no one thinks to bring ahead of time. Here’s my personal top 5 recommendations for every couple having a May wedding — and why these things really do save mood, comfort, and photos.
1. Clear, transparent umbrellas (2–3 pieces)
Why I always recommend them May rain in Edmonton is rarely a full storm — it’s usually short, annoying showers. Clear umbrellas let faces and outfits show through, create a beautiful “rain curtain” effect, and turn a potential problem into romantic, cinematic shots.
Why it matters
- Guests stay dry and keep smiling → natural candids instead of grumpy faces
- You get iconic couple-under-umbrella kisses without hiding behind colored plastic
- If the rain stops — umbrellas instantly become fun, light-hearted props
Practical advice: Buy cheap transparent umbrellas (~$15–20 on Amazon). 2–3 is enough for the couple + bridesmaids.
2. Packable emergency blanket + 2–3 light shawls/pashminas
Why I always recommend them After sunset in May, temperature drops fast — even if it was +20 °C during the day, by 9 PM it can feel like +8 °C. The bride shivers, goosebumps appear, smiles freeze.
Why it matters
- Warm shoulders = relaxed face and natural smile
- Shawls add beautiful texture and movement in photos
- Guests stay comfortable longer → more dancing, more candid shots
Practical advice: Folded emergency blankets (the shiny silver kind) take up almost no space. Choose neutral shawls (beige, gray, sage) — they blend into any outfit and look great in photos.
3. Small portable fan + cooling wipes
Why I always recommend them May sometimes brings +25 °C with humidity. Shiny foreheads, flushed skin, melting makeup — all very visible in close-ups.
Why it matters
- Cool skin = better complexion in photos (less retouching needed)
- Comfortable bride/groom = more natural expressions
- Cooling wipes refresh makeup and feel like a caring touch
Practical advice: Battery-powered mini fans (~$10–15) are quiet and pocket-sized. Alcohol-free cooling wipes (or baby wipes) are gentle on makeup.
4. Extra hair pins, clear elastics + mini hairspray
4. Extra hair pins, clear elastics + mini hairsprayWhy I always recommend them May wind is sneaky — even a light breeze turns veils into chaos and loose strands into a mess.
Why it matters
- Perfectly secured hair = confident bride
- Fixed veil = smooth ceremony photos
- Quick fix = no panic for bride or bridesmaids
Practical advice: Carry a mini emergency kit: 20 clear elastics, 30 bobby pins (black + blonde shades), travel-size hairspray, and a small comb.
5. Thermos with hot drink (coffee/tea/hot chocolate) + disposable cups
Why I always recommend it May mornings and evenings are cold. A warm drink in your hands warms you from the inside, creates beautiful steam shots, and instantly lifts the mood.
Why it matters
- Warm hands = relaxed posture and genuine smile
- Steam rising from the cup = cozy, atmospheric detail shot
- Small comfort = big mood boost before portraits
Practical advice: One thermos for the couple + a few paper cups. Hot chocolate wins every time — everyone loves it, and it looks gorgeous on camera.
“May is not summer yet, but it’s no longer spring. Dress for +6 °C in the morning and +22 °C in the afternoon. Plan for sun, prepare for rain, and love whatever the sky gives you.”
Because the most beautiful May weddings aren’t the ones with perfect weather. They’re the ones where the couple stayed warm, dry, calm — and let the day unfold naturally.
If you’re planning a May wedding or engagement session in Edmonton and want a photographer who arrives prepared for any weather and knows how to turn it into stunning photos — write to me. I’ll make sure your day feels comfortable, beautiful, and completely yours — whatever the forecast says.
