If you're not familiar with Murphy's Law, it goes something like this: anything that can go wrong will go wrong, if given the chance. That law's basis in science is up for debate, but when you're planning a wedding, Murphy's Law can feel like a hard and true fact. That's why it's so important to plan ahead, and take steps to avoid these common wedding disasters.

1. Weather Disasters

While you can't control the weather, you can certainly prepare for it. And if you're having an outdoor wedding, that should definitely be a priority. Here's how to deal with potential weather disasters: 

• Do your research. If you're having a destination wedding, do a little research on the climate so you have a reasonable idea of what time of year is best for an outdoor wedding, and what to expect when you get there.
  
  
• Have a backup plan. No matter where and when you're getting married, hope for the best but plan for the worst. Either have an indoor space lined up as a backup, or ensure that there's a big enough tent standing by to keep everybody safe and dry.
  
  
• Make the best of it. Bad weather doesn't have to be a bad thing! You can warm up by a crackling fire if it’s a little chillier than is comfortable. You can get some romantic pictures of you and your new spouse in the rain. Look at it this way—you'll have a great story to tell your kids.

2. Lost Wedding Rings

 Imagine how panicked you would feel, reaching into your pocket when you're standing at the altar, only to realize your ring is missing. Even thinking about it stresses you out. Take the appropriate steps to prevent that from happening:

• Hang onto Them! Seriously, don't let your rings out of your sight! Consider getting a handy ring wallet to hold them until you’re ready to use them.
  
  
• Choose a safe place. If you don't trust yourself, put your rings somewhere you absolutely, positively know they'll be safe. Make sure you and your spouse-to-be both know where they are. Agree that if one of you moves them, you’ll let the other person know. Two heads are better than one!
  
  
• Who do you trust? On your wedding day, hand the rings over to the person you trust the most to keep them secure. It could be the best man, maid of honor, a parent, or the officiant.

3. Wardrobe Malfunctions

So much can go wrong with everybody dressed up in their fanciest clothes. Zippers break. Dresses rip. Ties go AWOL. To avert wardrobe-related disasters: 

• Choose your tailor wisely. Make sure the groom's tux and the bride's wedding dress are from reputable designers or stores that have good reviews and use quality materials.

• Go to your fittings. The last thing you want to find out on the day of your wedding is that your dress or suit doesn't fit. Go to all your dress fittings and tailoring appointments, and try everything on at least a couple weeks before the wedding, should something need to be altered.

• Keep a sewing kit handy on your wedding day in case something tears and you need to stitch it up. You don't want to be the bride who tears her veil, or the groom who splits his pants an hour before the ceremony. For the clumsy, accident-prone folks, it probably couldn’t hurt to throw an on-the-go stain remover into your kit too.

• Have backups for the less expensive items. Stockings are notorious for getting runs, undershirts can get sweaty out on the dance floor, and socks can have holes in them. Make sure that you have what you need and if you’re worried about it not holding up, bring a backup.

4. Vendor No-Show

This is the worst. Somebody was supposed to take the pictures, supply the music, bring the cake or do the bride's hair—but they either couldn't or didn't show up. It's okay, you've prepared for this:

• Work with your wedding planner. One of the great things about hiring a reputable wedding planner is that they have a deep rolodex of vendors on call. They'll help you choose reliable vendors and they can provide backup if one falls through.
  
  
• Set up a second line of defense. How will you respond if any one of your vendors does drop the ball? Bring your own full makeup kit and make sure the maid of honor is ready in case she needs to step in. Decide who among your friends takes the best pictures and have them be the photographer should the real one vanish.