Greetings my lovelies,
I’d like to share with you my suggestions from an experienced wedding planner’s perspective on why guests should refrain from using their cell phones during a wedding ceremony and other private moments during a couple’s special day. I have seen everything from guests climbing a tree, leaning right into the altar area and actually standing in the aisle!! Wedding guests are there for one reason: to support the couple. Nothing about that requires telephone access during the ceremony, or leaping up with a camera like you’re at a concert.
Here are my suggestions:
Put a note in your wedding program:
“We ask you to kindly turn off your ringers during the wedding ceremony and refrain from taking photos. We have professional photographers on hand to capture all the special moments and are excited to share their photos with you per the request of couple in the near future.”
While cell phones are a means of entertainment and communication, they can also be a hindrance to the wedding party. People texting during the wedding ceremony have absolutely no interest in the main event. People clicking photos with flash during the wedding ceremony may lead to a hassle for the photographer trying to get professional shots. And the worst group is the ones who let their phones vibrate or ring out loud during the ceremony or when the officiate is speaking.
Ask your officiate to make an announcement. “The bride and groom have asked me to ask you to put your phones and cameras away during the ceremony. Please sit back, relax and enjoy.
Ask your DJ or band leader to make an announcement. Put a sign on the bar and reception table with a note saying. “We encourage you to share your selfies with a hashtag #_____ “
In closing, I’ll leave you with this thought. “Lets tune into our hearts and not social media for once in our lives.”
Happy Beginnings,Mike
