An important discussion to have with your couples is about the use of electronics. Do they want their guests to use them during the ceremony, or would they like everyone to unplug? As the leader of the ceremony, it is your responsibility to set the tone and convey your couple’s wishes. If they are unsure about how to proceed, share with them this article about unplugged weddings. It will help them think through their options.
How-To Say It
Following is some suggested language to share your couple’s wishes. Modify the message so it reflects your own style – and of course what your couple wants.
Welcome
Before introducing the rules, this is an ideal opportunity to welcome guests to the ceremony and then give them direction. For instance, “The ceremony is about to begin, but before we start…” or “Good Evening! Thank you so much for joining (couple’s names) on this glorious day.”
Aisles Clear: Pictures okay, but stay out of the photographer’s way
- Please take this time to silence your phones. And while you may take photos if you so desire, please be courteous to our photographers and keep the aisles clear so that our pro can get the best shots.
- The couple does not mind if you snap some pictures. Just be sure to watch for the photographer/videographer so they can get those beautiful shots of the couple.
- The couple is requesting a respectfully plugged ceremony. You are welcome to take pictures and videos to capture the ceremony from your seat, but they ask you to be respectful of the professional photographer’s view. Please do not lean into the aisle or approach the altar for those “money shots.” That’s what the photographer is paid to do.
- This is our photographer (point out and introduce). S/he is here to capture this beautiful day for the couple. Please silence your phones. You are welcome to take pictures, but if you see the photographer please take your phone away so it’s not in the way.
- The couple asks that you please be respectful with your picture taking. Not only so that our photographer can get the best possible shots for them, but so that you might enjoy this moment to its fullest.
Photo Op
An option that couples might want to consider is creating a photo opportunity for guests. That way everyone can go home with a picture on their phone, and still make the ceremony unplugged. To do this, talk with your couple about the timing. For instance, right after the bride reaches the alter, have the couple pose. Then tell the crowd “Okay! Right now is your opportunity to get a photo. And then please put your phones away.”
No Electronics: No phones or cameras
- The couple wants you to enjoy their wedding and to be truly present and in the moment with them as they share this very special day with you. They have hired an amazing photographer to capture every moment of this day so they invite you to sit back and simply enjoy the feelings and emotions of this day. They respectfully ask you turn off your cell phones and put your cameras away during the ceremony.
- We want to be able to see all of you experiencing the joy of this day in the photographer’s photos. The couple would like no technology during their ceremony. Please put all phones and cameras away.
- A friendly reminder to please make sure your phone is off or on silent. The happy couple requests everyone to refrain from taking photos during the ceremony. They’ve hired a photographer who will take care of that, so please just relax and enjoy this moment without the distraction of technology.
- Before beginning this celebration, please make sure that your cell phones have been silenced and the couple has asked that there be no photography during the ceremony.
Conclusion
- Most importantly, relax and have fun with us. We encourage you to laugh, clap, and cheer as you are so moved on this joyous occasion.
- We hope that you will be present and focused during our couple’s most special moment. Please notice the details in this lovely setting.
- Thank you and we will begin momentarily.
Related Links
- Share our blog article with your couple about unplugged ceremonies.
- All about commitment ceremonies and how to lead one