Katrina: "I've been getting a lot of questions about what to wear." Tom: "Huh? " Planning a wedding across the great Seattle-Juneau cultural divide is not as simple as it looks. So... below are some thoughts offered by each of us for people from our hoods.
Katrina and Tom plan to dress up for the wedding.
We recommend you consider Alaska Casual. What does that look like…?
Maybe change the clothes you were fishing or painting in that day? See you at the party!
We know you want to look nice. We will just be glad you are at our wedding. So please wear something that makes you happy, comfortable, and festive—whatever that is for you! Cconsider the weather, especially for footwear and coat. There will not be a lot of walking but if it’s cold and wet, bring reasonable shoes and warm outer jacket. The Pavilion at the Glacier has covering but you may want to bring an umbrella if it rains…but the locals may tease you (they do not use umbrellas in Juneau!). The reception is indoors but there is an outdoor deck and grass area that looks out on the channel.
Weather: Despite its location on the coast, Juneau enjoys a humid continental climate, where there is a zone of conflict between polar and tropical air masses. The city’s temperature extremes are moderated by the local topography and the Pacific Ocean. When it comes to appropriate clothing for Juneau weather, prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Even the warmest sunny day can turn cold and rainy (and vice versa). Juneau is no place for sun worshipers, as it rains on average 222 days per year, averaging 62 inches of rainfall. June and July are the driest months, with an average of 16 days of rain. It never really gets hot in Juneau, except on those few days each year when the temperature exceeds 80F. During the summer season, expect average highs in the mid-60s F and evening lows in the high 40s F.
Clothes: Layering your clothing is key. T-shirt, sweatshirt or fleece, windbreaker and waterproof warm outer layer. Also strongly recommended, sturdy waterproof footwear. A lightweight scarf, hat, and pair of thin gloves can take the edge off a chilly glacial wind. If you’re just walking around town or enjoying walking trails, there’s no need for specialized active-wear. But if you plan to do some hiking, you should bring more comfortable shoes and appropriate hiking clothes.