What Is An Unplugged Ceremony?

These days, everyone is guilty of being far too attached to our phones, tablets and technology, in general. Don’t get me wrong, I love technology and the advances are mind blowing but sometimes we just need a little bit of a break! And I’m noticing recently a lot of my couples agree and they’re opting for an unplugged ceremony. An unplugged ceremony means couples are asking guests to put away their devices as they walk down the aisle + exchange their vows. I know it sounds hard, but below are four reasons why this new trend is catching on!

Photo by: Sisterlee Photography

The couple hired a professional photographer. Let them do their job 

Photographers spend years studying their craft, honing their skill, + developing their artistry! When a couple spends the money to hire a photographer and/or videographer, it’s a large investment to capture one of the most important days of their lives! I know it’s tempting, but let the photographer get the money shot, and wait until the couple shares it. Often times, you’re that guest that gets in the way of the photographers best shot and ruining the photo and that moment being captured. Remember everyone wants to see the ceremony and the bride walking down the aisle but so does her partner! And to be honest, they’re the most important people, not you with your iPhone. So sit back and take it in from where you’re sitting the best you can.

Guests miss what’s actually happening because they’re distracted  

One of the best gifts you can give, is the gift of presence. As guests of a wedding, you are the honored family and friends hand chosen by the couple to witness them take this big step! If you’re on your phone during the vows, you’re too busy getting the right shot or making sure the video is working and often, blocking the view of another guest with an extended arm or holding your camera up. Put the device away, and be completely present and in the moment. Soak up every word, smell and sound. Those are the things that memories are made of!

Please don’t be THAT person in the background with your phone up during all the special moments the photographer is trying to capture 

Guests naturally are so excited to be a part of the day and want to get the best view! But I promise you, a professional photographer is going to get a better shot of the first kiss than your iPhone. I’m sorry, but it’s true! So while you’re participating in the celebration, allow the photographer the space needed to achieve the photos for the couple! There’s no need to step into the aisle with an iPhone or worse, your giant iPad to capture the couple.

Respect for the couple’s privacy

I’ve known couples to be upset that a photo was posted to social media before they were able to share. A bride’s dress has been posted before she even reached the groom, leaving no element of surprise. A wedding is an important day and the couple should decide how and when to share it with the world. So please, set your camera aside for a few hours and wait to post until reception (or the next day!) That way you don’t miss out on anything happening in the moment that night.

Each couple is different and will want different things for their ceremony but the best piece of advice I can give, is to be respectful of all moments and people there. Remember it’s about the couple, being present + celebrating their love that day! And also, be sure to dance your face off! Enjoy friends!