Because of the pandemic, many wedding ceremonies were either delayed or was cancelled for the meantime. Some couples who still want to continue the ceremony even without the physical presence of their loved ones opted to host a zoom wedding instead. Not a bad idea, right? Especially if you have grandparents or relatives who are discouraged from going out. Here what zoom weddings are and what you should prepare if you are planning one.
Virtual Weddings
With so many restrictions in place by the government and COVID-19 still lingering around us, there are many celebrations that were put to a halt last year. The vaccinations for COVID-19 have started but many people were not able to get vaccinated yet as some are not recommended to have one, especially the elderly population. It is truly frustrating to not be able to share your happiness with the people who matter to you most like your friends, family and relatives. Nevertheless, distance will not matter for the people whom you love and who loves you. We planned out a simple guide to celebrate your wedding virtually and make the most out of it!
What You Need:
Unlike traditional wedding that needs a wedding planner, a virtual wedding only requires the following:
- A working computer, phone, tablet that you could use.
- A Zoom or any other account that does not have a time limit and a good platform which will allow guests to view the wedding hassle-free.
- An officiant – this depends on the place or country of marriage. Some countries now offer a wedding ceremony via zoom while some still requires the presence of the couple. Better ask this in your local registry of marriage to have more information regarding this.
- A photographer is still a must! Who doesn’t want to have their wedding documented? Even if they are not physically present with you, they are still celebrating together.
- A marriage license – check with your local registry to find out more about how to obtain the marriage license especially during the present pandemic.
What You Need To Prepare:
Invite a few guests
Just because you are having a virtual wedding does not mean that you will need to limit the number of your guests too. Some states or countries allows at least 10 people with you during the ceremony. Those whom you want to invite but can’t be due to these restrictions may still join you via online platforms. So aside from yourself, your partner, the officiant and the photographer, you may still invite at least 6 more guests to join you in person.
Pick a meaningful place
The beauty of having a virtual wedding is you have a say on where you want to celebrate it. Whether it be on the suburbs or a forest, as long as there is cell service, you can go there. Some opted to celebrate in the comforts of their home but if you want to still have a unique experience for you and your guests you may look for a beautiful and meaningful place together with your partner. No matter what, make sure that there is adequate cell service with good hotspot or internet connection.
Keep the video call secure
Do not post the meeting ID or link of your wedding anywhere. As much as the internet is concern, hackers are everywhere. You wouldn’t want your wedding to be hacked by anyone, right? Instead of giving the meeting ID, why not give them a specific date and time of the ceremony, just give them the invite or link an hour before it starts.
Press the “Mute” button
Don’t forget to mute everyone before the ceremony starts as to provide an intimate and solemn ambience during the ceremony. This is also to avoid nuisance that may occur. You may easily do this especially if you are the host of the call.