How To Have A Virtual Wedding (tips from wedding pros)
A commonly used word to describe the wedding industry’s state this year has been ‘unprecedented’, and it couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to the introduction of virtual weddings. This concept hadn’t ever really been touched before except for a few here and there.
Fast forward to the end of 2020, weddings hosted via Zoom or other live streaming platforms are being commonly used as an alternative to the traditional in-person celebration for many couples. However, for us industry pros, this once-foreign idea is now something we need to be well-versed in.
That said, you may still be scratching your head, wondering how not only to streamline this new service but how to enhance the experience for couples and their guests so that it feels intimate and unique.
The rise in popularity of virtual weddings
These online nuptials have taken the year by storm, and it’s only going to go up from here. According to Kylie Carlson of The Wedding Academy: “At one point during the pandemic, virtual weddings were really the only option for couples that wanted to continue on with their plans of marrying on their original date. Travel was (and still is) restricted, and it was the best-laid plan to gather loved ones from afar and elope online.”
Because of this, couples saw the convenience and ease of mind that these types of celebrations brought them during a period of uncertainty, and we’re seeing the trend continue on well into 2021.
Photo Credit: Pharris Photos
How the format will evolve
As we continue to adapt to the ever-changing landscape as well as health and safety guidelines, so will the format of virtual weddings. Couples will be looking for new ways to hold their weddings virtually instead of a cut-and-dry Zoom meeting.
Nora Sheils of Bridal Bliss says, “I think virtual weddings will continue to be a ‘thing’ for the near future, however, I also think a combo of a smaller in-person event being streamed for virtual guests is more likely. Guests watching from home or taking part in a smaller celebration (likely all family) is much more festive than a full Zoom or video conference.”
Kevin Dennis of Fantasy Sound Event Services adds, “Many businesses are going to aim for higher quality production now that we have a hold on what virtual weddings look like, as well as what couples want from their virtual wedding. Hiring A/V professionals and investing in great lighting are two wonderful ways to ensure that your client has the perfect event.”
Ways that you can elevate the experience
As hard as it is to have your couple celebrate with their family and friends from a distance, there are several ways that you can take the wedding to the next level.
JoAnn Gregoli of Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli suggests, “In order to elevate the experience, send a celebration box to all the guests with wine and cheese to enjoy cocktails together during the event. We have even hosted an event with a mixologist as part of the virtual event and sent the guests boxes of the drink component to make during the event. We selected the couple’s signature drink for guests to enjoy. In the box, we even included a mini dessert to enjoy during the event, as well. It’s important to ask guests to offer toasts during the event and be sure you are recording the event, as a keepsake.”
We won’t see these micro, online gatherings going anywhere soon, so it’s time to embrace the trend and vamp up offerings to give your couples the wedding they deserve – even if it’s broadcasted through a screen. Think bigger and bolder, and take into consideration what’s most important to them to include.
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor in the field of public relations, and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
