Guide to Planning a Virtual Wedding
The current pandemic might be changing life as we know it but this doesn’t mean you can’t still get married to the love of your life. Thanks to technology and a little creativity, you can still celebrate your union with the people you love.
A virtual wedding might not be the wedding you were hoping for, but if you don’t want to postpone your big day, it’s a great option to have.
1. Decide on a Platform
There are a few platforms to choose from if you want to stream your wedding but Zoom and Facebook Live are two of the most popular and reliable options. (All of the virtual weddings we have done this year went with Zoom) Zoom charges a small monthly fee but allows you to host up to 100 attendees at a time. The cloud recording feature will even allow you to capture the moment. If you use Facebook Live, simply create a private group that people can join if they want to be a part of your day. Ask a friend or family member to capture screenshots throughout the ceremony and celebrations so that you can add photos of your wedding guests to your album. You can still do your speeches as planned, but everyone will need to enjoy them from home. Check your regulations based on where your wedding will take place to see if you may be able to have a photographer on-site to take photos of you and your fiancé during and after your ceremony.
2. Hire the Right Gear
If you want to plan a virtual wedding, you’re going to need the right gear. A laptop or tablet with a good camera or a phone and a tripod are what you will need to stream your wedding. Whatever setup you have in mind, be sure to test it before the big day. Don't forget to test the wifi signal strength. Running a 100 ft extension to pull a router closer to the ceremony location for better internet is something we had to do for a couple outdoor weddings this year.
3. Let Your Vendors Know
While you won’t need all the usual vendors, you can still coordinate with a select few – your photographer being the most important. Your photographer can still be at your wedding while adhering to social distancing requirements. You can also still arrange a fancy meal, champagne and a wedding cake for you and your partner to enjoy on the day – all these items can be delivered. Lastly, you also want to make the necessary arrangement with your officiant, who will need to mail in the signed marriage license. And as always, make sure that you’re compliant with local marriage laws.
4. Let Your Guests Know
If you still love the idea of wedding invitations, send out virtual invites. There are a number of websites that allow you to create digital wedding invites that can be emailed to your guests. Just remember to include the link to your Zoom or Facebook group. You may also want to add in some extra information such as how guests can mute their videos during the ceremony. If you will be capturing screenshots, let your guests know so that they can dress accordingly. If you want to send off a few small gifts to guests, get them to RSVP as they usually would.
5. Prepare for Your Big Day
Even though you’re having a virtual wedding, you still need to be prepared. Along with testing your equipment, make sure that you have an appropriate backdrop. With such a small amount of people attending in person you have so many more options for a wedding location and ceremony backdrop that are dream-worthy. You will also want to check times and delivery dates with your vendors to make sure all is in order. Next, discuss the order of the ceremony and day with your fiancé and photographer. Do you still want to walk down the aisle? If so, make sure these sorts of details are in place. Lastly, prepare your wedding outfits, hair and makeup. You may also want to arrange for a private call between you and your wedding party as you get ready so that they can still be a prominent and special part of your day.
You’re all set! Now that you’re ready to say those I Do's, don’t forget to hit record and enjoy every second of your special day together. Remember, there will be plenty of time to celebrate in person with those you love once this is all done.