Technology plays a vital role in pretty much every aspect of our lives, and may even have a hand in planning your wedding. But wedding planning apps aside, an increasing number of couples are imposing tech bans at their wedding venues!
Known as an ‘unplugged wedding’, making your wedding a tech-free zone unlocks a variety of benefits. As well as giving the couple at its centre the power to share the details and images of their wedding on their terms, hosting an unplugged wedding can be a huge positive for your wedding album as Nightingale Photography reveals:
“When guests use their own cameras, there are many ways that this affects the photography that you’re actually paying for. Guests oftentimes are taking photos at the same time we are, and their flashes interfere with our cameras, leaving you blown out completely (and unsalvageable) or having weird shadows or lighting throughout the photos.”
Whatever rewards you’re looking to reap from going unplugged, here’s how to announce and host a wedding without phones, social media or other tech, without alienating your guests.
Share your preferences early
To ensure everyone is on the same page in time for your wedding day, you should tell your guests about your plans to host an unplugged wedding as soon as you can.
Many couples choose to inform their guests early by including carefully worded wedding inserts in their save the dates and invites. You can find more tips on getting the wording of your wedding invites just right here. Those going paper-free can add their request to their wedding website.
Be clear on the reasons why
Whilst every decision made in regards to your big day is of course the bride and groom’s prerogative, communicating why having an unplugged wedding is important to you will help guests to get on board and respect your wishes.
Make sure they are aware of the benefits of going unplugged, not just for your privacy and the sake of your wedding photography but for them.
Going unplugged helps wedding guests be more present by minimising distractions so they can enjoy every aspect of your big day. It also paves the way for a more intimate atmosphere and emotional experience for everyone involved.
Remind your guests on the day
It’s well worth reiterating your wish to go unplugged on your wedding day, and there are several ways you can do just that without being too forceful with your guests.
A simple note in your wedding program or order of service will go a long way. So too will some well-placed wedding signage positioned throughout your ceremony and reception venue.
Ask the professionals to step in
It can be uncomfortable to enforce the tech-free rule in person. It can be even more uncomfortable having to confront guests that have either forgotten about your preferences or simply chose to ignore them. With a little help from the professionals, however, you won’t have to worry about such things and can concentrate fully on enjoying every moment of the day you’ve planned.
Registrars and celebrants can assist by making announcements at the ceremony. Wedding venue staff can also be alerted to your no-tech rule and will be on hand throughout your day to help you have the wedding celebration you want.
