The music starts to play. The bridesmaids enter, followed by the flower girls. The guests stand in anticipation of the bride coming down the aisle. This is the moment everyone has been waiting for. In years past, family and friends watched as the bride was escorted in, maybe looking back to see the groom’s reaction. But times have changed, as well as technology. As amazing as it is to have a camera at your fingertips, it has created a bit of a dilemma – aisles have become a sea of cell phones. So what can you do? Consider having an unplugged wedding ceremony.
What is an Unplugged Wedding
Unplugged weddings are simply when the bride and groom ask guests to be present by putting away all cell phones, tablets and cameras. This allows family and friends to engage in the celebration and not be tempted to snap a picture or two for their Instagram feed. This can be communicated in a few different ways. Usually, the officiant or loved one makes an announcement before the ceremony starts. We’ve also seen cute unplugged wedding signs posted near the ceremony site. While guests are encouraged to take photos before and after, unplugged weddings set an intimate scene for everyone in attendance.
The Benefits of an Unplugged Wedding
1. Your guests are present in the moment with you.
As a bride walking down the aisle, you get to see not only your handsome groom waiting for you, but your family and friends who are there to share this time with you. Instead of their faces being buried behind their screens, you see all the smiles and happy tears. There is something about really being there without any distractions that is so special.
2. You will get the best professional photographs and videos.
As photographers and videographers, we always strive to get the best angles and images. But on occasion, excited guests move in to snap a photo and unknowingly hop in front of our cameras. During one wedding on Big Island, someone actually knocked me to the ground during the recessional. Don’t worry, I still got the shot! But an unplugged wedding ceremony eliminates these tangles.
3. You control what is shared.
This is your special day! Be the first to share photos from your wedding ceremony – and professional photos at that. Choose your favorites and post them when you are ready. The last thing you want is a photo to end up online that you didn’t feel your best in.
Are there any downsides?
The biggest concern couples voice about having an unplugged wedding is that their professional photos will take too long and they want to get a glimpse sooner. Just ask your photographer ahead of time if they could send a few teaser photos while you wait for the rest of the gallery. Also, we definitely encourage a “plugged in” reception. After the ceremony is over, click away! Use a wedding hashtag to collect all the fun memories from your friends and family. This way you get to see fun pictures from your wedding day while maintaining a peaceful ceremony.
See Iwain and Samantha’s Unplugged Wedding
Are you still undecided? Take a look at Iwain and Samantha’s wedding highlights to see their unplugged ceremony!
