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Virtual Weddings Explained (Plus Tips on Organizing One!)
Many young lovers have begun opting for entirely virtual weddings via video-conferencing or live-video platforms. Since 2020, these virtual weddings have continued to trend because they provide a multitude of benefits for newlyweds and their families. Let’s investigate their benefits as well as look into some virtual wedding must-haves.
Benefits & Considerations
Online weddings can be less costly than traditional marriages. They don’t require the couple to rent a large venue or hire a caterer. Virtual weddings are also often simpler to plan and easier to schedule. Plus, since virtual weddings don’t require family and friends to travel far, it can also be more environmentally friendly.
A consideration to keep in mind during scheduling is that guests may be participating from different time zones. It’s also recommended to make sure all your electronic equipment is set up in advance of the ceremony. For an online wedding, a couple should ensure that their sound, video, and Wi-Fi hardware is adequate.
“Test the Wi-Fi capabilities at the wedding venue in advance. If the bandwidth is insufficient or if the Wi-Fi capabilities are ‘spotty,’ you can then consider bringing in a separate hotspot. Having stable and solid Wi-Fi is key to the success of your virtual wedding and to ensuring that your remote guests can enjoy your day with you to the greatest extent possible,” said Wedding planning Mona Hirata-Sung on The Knot.
Couples additionally need to choose where to host their wedding online—a live-video platform, like Facebook Live, or a video-conferencing website, like Zoom. These platforms differ by how many guests can join and to what extent they can interact during the ceremony. To ensure the equipment works sufficiently, give it a dry run in advance. Additionally, keep in mind that if you choose to have a virtual ceremony, you will still need to register the marriage with your state or local township to gain the tax, healthcare, and legal benefits of a marriage.
Virtual Wedding Must-Haves
Now, here are some must-haves for virtual weddings:
- A Designated Spot for Tech: Before the grand event, make sure to find the perfect spot for your camera, computer, or tablet that will be broadcasting your wedding. Your virtual guests should be able to see the event, especially you and your new spouse, without obstructions. If you’re planning to change your setup between the ceremony and reception, make sure there’s a perfect spot for your livestream in each area.
- A Tech Coordinator and Emcee: You’ll want to enlist at least two people to help with the livestream of your wedding—a technology coordinator and emcee. Consider hiring a tech coordinator at the wedding who will ensure that the livestream is working and that can troubleshoot issues. It will also be helpful to have an “emcee,” or someone who can facilitate games or other activities for your virtual guests.
- A Virtual Pre-party: Get the party underway—early. One of the best parts of any wedding is the chance to reconnect with loved ones you may not have seen in years. Make sure to give any virtual guests time to talk before the wedding. It’s recommended to open up the “Zoom room” or other virtual hangout an hour or so before your ceremony so that guests can have some time to chit chat. During your pre-party is the perfect time for your designated “emcee” to facilitate ice breaker games or create breakout rooms to give guests more ways to interact.
In Closing
Embracing the convenience of technology, virtual weddings offer a unique way to celebrate love in the digital age. They allow couples to share their special day with loved ones, no matter the distance, creating beautiful moments that are just as meaningful as traditional ceremonies.
Whether your wedding is fully virtual, or you simply have a few virtual guests in attendance, adding a virtual component to your wedding allows you to have a more cost-effective event while still including loved ones who may live across the country—or the world.
For more tips on how to plan the best experience for any virtual wedding guests, check out this article. And comment below—have you ever attended or hosted a wedding virtually?
