Virtual weddings: four tips for tying the knot over Zoom
If you were planning a Summer 2020 wedding, the chances are that you’ve been left disappointed. The coronavirus pandemic has impacted virtually every aspect of our lives, and though many are postponing their big days, the truth is that some of us want to tie the knot now – especially following months of doom, gloom, personal tragedy, and even loss.
In some parts of the world, weddings are going ahead as usual, whereas in others, they are banned or only small groups of people can gather safely to prevent the virus from spreading. Indeed, in Australia, a couple married on Tumbling Waters Retreat in Stanwell Tops in early March – and weeks later, 37 of their guests were confirmed to have the COVID-19 virus.
One alternative is to host a virtual wedding and invite guests from around the world to watch you say “I do” from the comfort of your sofa. Below, we’ve put together some tips to help…
Set a dress code
Most of us have been spending lockdown in our loungewear, watching far too much TV and eating snacks. A lockdown wedding is an ideal opportunity to dress up and have some fun! If you want your Zoom wedding to go off with a bang, set a dress code so that everyone can look the part and get into the swing of things. Sure, they might be at home, but making your loved ones wear their best dresses and tuxedos will get everyone into the spirit of things and make your special day feel like more of an occasion. Those screenshots will look good, too!
Prepare in advance
The more you can prepare in advance, the easier it’ll be for your wedding to go off without any problems. Let your guests know exactly what you have planned – perhaps you’re going to get married at 12pm and then host a virtual champagne lunch over Zoom? Design a basic website where you can share your itinerary, as well as a playlist, photos, and even a virtual wedding book. Everyone can share their favorite memories of the happy couple online.
Keep it traditional
Getting married in front of a webcam is far from traditional, but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate some textbook wedding traditions into your celebrations. We’re talking wedding speeches, having your father virtually walk you down the aisle, and even incorporating ideas such as handfasting, where you and your husband-to-be are physically fastened together before the wedding as a symbol of your love. Claddagh Rings has some great Irish traditions that you might want to incorporate into your big day in this infographic below, including Celtic wedding ceremonies, oathing stones, and grushies, where grooms throw coins into a crowd.
Host more than one reception
Although you can have up to 100 attendees in a Zoom call, a large virtual wedding is going to cause carnage. You won’t be able to see each individual attendee, and people will be talking over each other, creating an awkward atmosphere where most people just watch rather than engage. Splitting down your friends and family into smaller groups is a better idea, as you can have the time to chat with everyone and create a more intimate experience.
Are you planning a virtual wedding? Let us know how you get on and check back soon for more advice from our blog. We’re your #1 resource on planning events and having fun!
