In recognition that we do (occasionally) get really fabulous weather, we thought we'd follow up our wedding umbrellas post, with something a little more optimistic: Wedding Parasols. Those light and delicate cousins of umbrellas, made of paper and lace, parasols don't protect from the torrential showers we usually have at least once a day in Ireland, but on a hot summer's day, or for a destination wedding, they are wonderful! They help keep the sun off your skin and protect the eyes - nobody wants to be squinting in their photos, right? Parasols are also beautiful accessories in their own right and can act as stylish props in your wedding photos too, a win!
Picking the Perfect Wedding Parasol
Parasols tend to come in two broad types: light fabrics such as lace, or paper. You can get delicate umbrellas that are shaped more like parasols but offer some protection from the rain, but here we're sticking to our guns and talking strictly about the sunshine variety: purebred parasols.
If you're getting married abroad and are pretty much guaranteed good weather then a paper parasol is perfect - light and pretty and available in a range of colours and patterns. You can even get them monogrammed (try these Etsy shops) - for a bit extra. You should only buy paper parasols a short time in advance of the wedding as the rice paper tends to go yellow over time.
Lace parasols are a bit heavier and more expensive, but are the kind of accessory you will be able to keep forever, and hand down as a lovely keepsake from your wedding day. Guests will also appreciate these if you have invited them to your destination wedding as chances are they won't have bought their own. There are other lots of great options available on Etsy, Ebay or Amazon, just try looking for Battenburg or Belgian lace parasols.
Where to Find Wedding Parasols
For those brides guaranteed some glorious sunshine on the day, you'll need a pretty pagoda or parasol to keep the sun off your shoulders and face to help protect your makeup. Parasols are not just functional, they can be really beautiful wedding accessories in their own right. Here are our best finds:
Check out the rest of our accessories posts for other great wedding finds!
