When you think about planning your wedding, you probably don’t think about having it virtually, but sometimes that’s the reality of our circumstances. You find yourself too far away from friends and family, or in a situation in which it’s just not wise to gather in large groups. For these circumstances, a virtual wedding is a great option. It allows you and your partner to get married according to your own timeline, while being joined by loved ones near and far. If you’re thinking of having a virtual wedding anytime soon, the wedding professionals at Marco Island Weddings have some great tips and reminders to help you make the most of your special day.
Staging the Perfect Virtual Wedding
One very important element to keep in mind is the way your wedding will look on camera. Practice walking and standing where you plan to be and remove all distractions. Think about having a clean, bright area to record your nuptials. All experts agree that natural lighting is best, so if you’re indoors, choose to be near a large window to provide the best light. You may also think about practicing how to use your preferred platform (Zoom or Facebook Live, for instance) with your technology-challenged guests so they won’t miss out on your special day. Finally, be sure to account for time zones when inviting far-away guests. Stating something like “3pm EST (12pm PST)” on the wedding invitation will be a helpful reminder.
What to Include in your Perfect Virtual Wedding
While there are many things seen or done in a traditional wedding that can be skipped in a virtual wedding, a few things should remain for the sake of continuity and relevance. Definitely wear that beautiful gown you’ve always dreamed of, and be sure your partner is dressed to match. Surround yourselves with flowers, including a beautiful bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere. These can be preserved after the wedding and maintained as a keepsake. Plan to decorate with live foliage, small twinkling lights or gorgeous flowers. Flowers especially are significant for a number of reasons, especially in weddings, and the symbolism they represent can bring much meaning to your ceremony. Be sure to include a photographer and videographer to capture each special moment (and maybe even to help with the video streaming for guests). If you plan to include guests in a champagne toast or other ceremonious gesture, be sure to mention this in the invitation so guests can be prepared.
What to Exclude from your Perfect Virtual Wedding
There are a few things that do not need to be included in a virtual wedding. While it may feel disappointing to cross these items off your list, keep in mind that you can always have a celebration or reception once you and loved ones are able to gather together again. Plus you’ll save a bundle on the cost of the wedding by nixing the catered 5-course meal, the DJ and dance floor and the wedding cake that feeds 200 people (though we highly recommend having a smaller cake that you and your partner can cut in front of guests). You may choose to do without a wedding party, or include your bridesmaids and groomsmen virtually as well.
There are so many ways to get creative when hosting a virtual wedding. If your time or circumstances dictate that you cannot have a live wedding with all of your loved ones, consider this possibility as a happy compromise. Then talk to the wedding experts at Marco Island Weddings about all the ways to creatively design the perfect virtual wedding that you and your guests will be talking about for years.