If you’ve been around the wedding world in the past five years, you’re probably familiar with the buzz phrase “unplugged wedding”. If this phrase is very foreign to you, let me explain. An unplugged wedding is where the couple getting married asks their guests to put away their cell phones and cameras for all or some portion of the wedding festivities. Unplugged weddings come in many shapes and sizes, but most of the time, couples want you unplugged for the ceremony.
In today’s day and age, the thought of being detached from your smartphone for an hour might seem overwhelming or completely absurd. That’s a completely separate blog post. Sigh. However, whenever I’m consulting with my couples, I generally encourage them to explore the unplugged option. And, after reading this post, you’ll be convinced as to why you should have an unplugged wedding, too.
Why You Should Have An Unplugged Wedding
First and foremost, you are investing thousands of dollars into your wedding day. Decor, flowers, photography, videography, THE DRESS!! After an investment like this, the last thing you want in your wedding photos is your family and friends holding up their tablets, phones, and cameras in the background. This may seem like a non-issue or one you do not wish to broach with your guests, but I’m telling you, nothing kills a photograph of a beautiful moment (like your first kiss) than one of your guests with their Kindle Fire in the air.
Secondly, even though I have no doubt that your guests have good intentions, they often get in the way of the professionals who are paid to document your wedding in a creative and lasting way. A guest jumping in front of a professional photographer to snap an iPhone photo is not only annoying- it’s dangerous. And believe me, this happens ALL THE TIME!
Lastly, and most importantly, it’s okay to detach from your electronics for a bit! Repeat that out loud three times. In all seriousness, we live in a world of constant distractions, from social media to work email and free wifi pretty much any and everywhere. We are plugged in nearly 24/7. What better time to put your phone down and be in the moment than at a wedding?? Asking your guests to be present is a beautiful reminder that life is happening, even if they aren’t documenting every second on social media.
Have I convinced you yet? Unplugged weddings should be a no-brainer (in my humble and professional opinion), but the beauty of your wedding is that you get to do it your way! Ask guests to put their phones away for the whole wedding, ceremony or not at all. Either way, you’ve made the decision that’s right for you, and I’ll be there to capture it regardless. :)
For ideas and suggestions on how to plan your unplugged wedding, check out Southern Wedding for more or contact me for tips!