So, you’re getting married! I’m sure you’re buzzing with excitement, dreaming of the big party, and of course, the moment you say “I do.” As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing so many beautiful ceremonies, and honestly, they still get me every time. But let’s face it – weddings have changed over the years. One of the big trends that’s taken off is the unplugged wedding, and I’m here to tell you why it might just be the best decision you make for your big da

As a wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed firsthand the powerful impact of unplugged weddings, and I believe it’s a trend worth considering for every couple planning their big day. Here’s everything you need to know about unplugged weddings, why they’re beneficial, and how to make them work seamlessly for your event.

An unplugged wedding is simply a ceremony where you ask your guests to put their phones and cameras away, at least for a little while. The goal? To have everyone fully present, soaking in every moment without distractions. Trust me, when guests are totally engaged, it makes the whole experience so much more special

From my perspective as a wedding photographer, I believe that unplugged weddings have many benefits. Here are the top five reasons why I think every couple should consider having an unplugged wedding:

1. Everyone is Focused on You

Here’s the thing: when guests aren’t glued to their screens, they’re actually there with you, feeling every word and every emotion. It makes for a much more heartfelt ceremony, and hey, you’ll probably hear way more cheers and laughter!

2. Way Better Photos and Videos

Let’s be real—phones can get in the way of some seriously important shots. I’ve seen it too many times: a guest leaning into the aisle to snap a pic, blocking that perfect shot of the vows. By going unplugged, you’re giving your photographer (me!) the chance to work some magic and capture all those moments without interruptions.

3. A Stress-Free Vibe for the Couple

Your wedding day is your moment. The last thing you need is to feel like you’re in a sea of paparazzi. An unplugged ceremony takes away that stress, so you can just be present, in the moment, soaking up all the love around you.

4. More Meaningful Memories

When guests put down their phones, they’re creating memories with you—not just for you. It’s those shared smiles, the happy tears, and the laughter that you’ll remember. Trust me, you’ll love looking back at your photos and seeing everyone’s faces, not just a crowd of screens.

5. It Makes Everything More Intimate

Unplugged weddings feel different—they’re more personal, more connected. Without devices between you and your guests, there’s a unique sense of intimacy. And you’ll notice it in the photos, too; they’ll be more candid, more real, and full of genuine moments.

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Letting your guests know about your unplugged wedding ceremony doesn’t have to be a big deal. There are a couple of ways to make it fun and easy.

How to Pull Off an Unplugged Wedding Without a Hitch

Alright, so you’re thinking an unplugged ceremony might be for you. But how do you actually get your guests on board? Here’s a little guide:

1. Add a Note in Your Invitations

You can keep it simple: “We’d love for you to be fully present with us during our ceremony. Please keep phones and cameras away, and enjoy this special moment.” That way, guests know what to expect ahead of time.

2. Make a Fun Sign for the Venue

A sign at the entrance is a friendly reminder. You can make it fun and quirky! Something like, “Welcome! We’re having an unplugged ceremony, so put those phones away and just enjoy the moment with us!”

3. Get the Officiant to Give a Heads-Up

Having your officiant make a quick announcement before things kick off is another great way to set the tone. A simple, “We kindly ask that you put your devices away during the ceremony,” works wonders.

4. Appoint an ‘Unplugged Buddy’

Assign a friend or family member to gently remind any guests who might forget and start reaching for their phones. A lighthearted nudge usually does the trick!

Addressing Objections and Potential Drawbacks

While an unplugged ceremony can have several benefits, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks as well. One such drawback is that some guests may be disappointed that they are unable to share the photos and videos they have taken with friends and family on social media platforms. Your uncle Bob can be upset 🙂 Here’s how to handle common concerns:

• “I want to take my own photos!”
  Let guests know that after the ceremony, they are welcome to take photos at the reception. You can say, “Once the ceremony is over, feel free to snap away at the reception!”
• Some guests might ignore your request.
  This is a possibility, but don’t let it discourage you. Most guests will respect your wishes, especially if you explain your reasons clearly and kindly.

Templates for Invitations and Signs

To help couples communicate their unplugged wedding plans, here are a few templates you can use:

Invitation Note Template:

“We have one simple request for our special day: please keep phones and cameras off during the ceremony. We have professional photographers capturing every moment, and we can’t wait to share the memories with you!”

Sign Wording Template:

“Welcome to our unplugged ceremony! We kindly ask you to put away your devices and enjoy being fully present with us today.”

Pro Tip: If you’d like, you can order an “unplugged ceremony” sign on Etsy here: https://www.etsy.com/uk/market/unplugged_ceremony_sign

Now, let’s be honest—some guests might not be thrilled about going unplugged. Uncle Bob might be a bit upset he can’t snap photos for his Facebook feed, and there’s always a chance a guest might ignore the request. The best way to handle this is with a positive, friendly approach. Most people will respect your wishes when they understand it’s about making the day more meaningful. And if a few do slip up, don’t stress too much. It’s your day, and most guests are there to support you, phones or not.

Here’s the bottom line: whether you go unplugged or not, it’s totally up to you. As your photographer, I’m here to work with whatever you decide. If you’re all for unplugging, fantastic. I’m ready to capture those beautiful, distraction-free moments. If not, no worries! I’ll be there to work around the buzz of devices and do my best to capture the essence of your day.

Planning a wedding is filled with choices, and this is just one of them. Whatever you choose, I’m here to make sure it’s everything you dreamed it would be. Got more questions about how an unplugged wedding might work for you? Let’s chat!