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The 15th in a series of posts from Seaport's wedding and social event expert, Leah Malin
We are living in a world where Wedding Hashtags, Wedding Instagram Accounts, and online everything puts the world in our palm…and our party purses!
We have all been there. You know a distant cousin, acquaintance or even co-worker is getting married. You either weren’t invited or couldn’t make it…so you wait…login…and look. More often than not, you are gratified throughout the day and night seeing photos uploaded and the happy couple tagged, giving you a bird’s eye view of every moment and detail-all from the comforts of your couch. I found myself caught in this recently when my colleague was hosting her Sister’s Baby Shower. I knew all the charming elements she was planning and couldn’t wait to see them, and was surprised when they weren’t uploaded until days later!
Lately, some couples are opting out of becoming an instant social media sensation, and un-plugging their events, specifically weddings. One of our own upcoming brides even mentioned at her recent tasting she doesn’t want to have her guests experience her day through the screen of their phones, but rather be in the moment!
There are a lot of great resources on the internet to guide you through the “unplugged” wedding, A few key pieces of advice to ensure your guests are able to enjoy (and document!) your day, your way:
- Ensure the communication is out well in advance of your big day. Print on your invitations or even include an enclosure defining the unplugged wedding and what it means to you so there is no confusion with your guests;
- Double up and note this on your Wedding Website;
- Whenever possible, unplug ALL your wedding related parties, to set the tone for your guests, including Engagement Party, Showers, Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties and Rehearsal Dinner. That will acclimate your core group to the concept;
- Have cute signage at the entrance, or even printed in your ceremony programs. An announcement from your Officiant, DJ or Band can also reiterate this for your guests at the wedding (and after a few cocktails!);
- Last but not least, try to remember that the excitement of your day is something your guests want to share. Hopefully, your wishes will be respected, but don’t be offended if someone doesn’t “get” it.
Photo courtesy of chalkboardsandcompany.com
