Post-Wedding Website: To Keep Or Not To Keep?

Wedding websites are a great way to keep your guests informed about your big day. But what happens to your wedding website after the wedding? While some couples choose to keep their website as a digital keepsake, others may want to delete it. If you're looking to get rid of your wedding website, there are a few things you need to do. Firstly, check the privacy settings and make sure it's not publicly accessible. Then, reach out to the website provider to request deactivation. Alternatively, you can simply remove all the information from the website. It's important to note that some websites will automatically delete your wedding website after a certain period, usually a year. So, whether you want to cherish the memories or move on, make sure you know the options available to you when it comes to your wedding website.

How to make your wedding website private

There are a few ways to make your wedding website private. Firstly, you can prevent search engine indexing by using a "security by obscurity" method. This means that people won't be able to stumble upon your website by searching for it on Google or other search engines. However, anyone who knows the URL will still be able to access the site.

To implement this, you can use the robots.txt file to prevent search engines from finding your site. Alternatively, if you're using a website-building platform, you can often find a "security by obscurity" option in the settings. For example, on Weebly, there is an option that says "make my site unfindable by search engines". Similarly, Wix also has a setting that asks if you would like your site to show up on a Google search when you publish it.

Another way to make your wedding website private is to add password protection. This means that only people who know the password will be able to view your website. Many commercial wedding website services, such as WedSites and Joy, offer password protection. If you're hosting your own website, you can password-protect it at the directory level.

Additionally, if you're using a platform like The Knot, you can change your privacy settings to prevent your site from appearing in search engine results. Here are the steps to do this:

• Log into your account on The Knot and go to your wedding website dashboard.
• Click on the "Manage" tab next to the "Privacy Settings" tab.
• Click on the "Visibility" tab and switch the "Allow your site to appear in search engines" option to "No."
• Click "Done" to save your changes.

Note that it may take up to 30 days for your website to be removed from search engine results, and you will need to share the exact URL with your guests so they can find the website.

How to delete your wedding website

Deleting your wedding website can be a straightforward process, but the steps will differ depending on the platform you used to create it. Here is a general guide on how to delete your wedding website:

Check your platform:

The first step is to identify the platform you used to create your wedding website. Common platforms include The Knot, WeddingWire, and Joy. Each platform has its own process for deleting websites, so knowing your platform is crucial.

Log into your account:

Once you've identified your platform, log into your account. This will give you access to the website's dashboard and settings, which are typically required for deletion.

Locate the deletion option:

The location of the deletion option varies across platforms. On The Knot, for example, you need to go to your website dashboard, click on the "Manage" tab next to "Privacy Settings," and then look for the "Deactivate Your Wedding Website" tab. On WeddingWire, you need to reach out to their support team at [email protected] to request deactivation. For Joy, go to the "Event Settings" page from the admin dashboard, scroll down to the bottom of the "General" tab, and look for the "I want to delete my wedding on Joy" option.

Confirm deletion:

After locating the deletion option, carefully read through any information provided and confirm that you want to delete your website. On The Knot, for instance, you would select "Deactivate Now." For Joy, you would type "DELETE" and then click "Delete My Joy Wedding."

Save your information:

Before permanently deleting your website, consider whether you want to save any information or content from it. This could include photos, guest list information, or other details. Be sure to download or screenshot anything you want to keep before proceeding with the deletion.

Notify your guests:

If your guests have been actively using your wedding website, you may want to let them know that it will be deleted or deactivated soon. This will give them a chance to save any important information as well.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully delete your wedding website. Remember to carefully review the specific instructions provided by your chosen platform to ensure a smooth deletion process.

Benefits of keeping your wedding website after the wedding

There are several benefits to keeping your wedding website live after the big day. Here are some reasons why you might want to keep it:

A Digital Keepsake

A wedding website is a great way to preserve your special day. You can keep all your wedding details, such as the wedding party bios, the order of events, and registry information, on the site. It can also be a place to showcase your love story and act as a digital memento for you and your guests to reminisce about the joy-filled moments you shared.

Share Photos and Videos

You can use your wedding website to upload and share your wedding photos and videos with your guests. This is especially great for those who couldn't attend the wedding, as they can still immerse themselves in the celebration. You can also create a photo stream from a hashtag search, allowing you to display crowdsourced photos from your guests' perspectives.

Share Honeymoon Details

You can update your wedding website with honeymoon photos and anecdotes. This is a quick and easy way to share your trip details without flooding your loved ones' social media feeds. It also includes those without social media, making them feel included.

Extend the Registry Period

It's common for guests to send wedding gifts after the wedding. By keeping your wedding website active, you can give your guests more time to use your registry. You can also purchase any remaining products from your registry using your post-wedding discount.

Stay Organised

A wedding website is an excellent tool for organisation. You can use it to send out save-the-dates and invitations, track RSVPs, and access important information from your guests, such as dietary requirements. It can also help you communicate last-minute changes quickly and efficiently.

How to make a wedding website

A wedding website is a great way to keep your guests informed and excited about your big day. It's a place to share the details of your celebration and give guests a glimpse into your wedding style and love story. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a wedding website:

Select Your Platform:

Choose a website builder that suits your needs and style. Popular options include The Knot, WeddingWire, Zola, Minted, Wix, and Squarespace. These platforms offer various templates, customization options, and features like RSVPs and registry integration.

Create Relevant Pages:

Once you've chosen your platform, it's time to customize your template by adding relevant pages. Common pages include:

• Home: This is where guests will land. Include a photo of the couple and details about the ceremony and reception.
• Our Story: Share your love story, engagement photos, and special moments from your relationship.
• Schedule: Create a separate tab for the wedding itinerary, especially if you have multiple events.
• Travel and Accommodations: Share transportation and lodging information, including airport/train station suggestions, parking details, and hotel block links.
• Registry: Provide a link to your online registry, making it easy for guests to find and shop.
• Things to Do: For destination weddings or wedding weekends, recommend local attractions, restaurants, and activities.
• Wedding Party: Introduce your wedding party with names, titles, and optional bios.
• RSVP: Include a digital RSVP tab for guests to confirm their attendance and share any dietary restrictions.

Add All the Details:

Fill in the important information on each page, such as event itineraries, accommodation suggestions, travel tips, registry links, dress codes, and contact information. Don't forget to upload photos and add any custom designs to personalize your website.

Publish and Share:

Once your website is complete and all the links are tested, it's time to hit publish! Consider password-protecting your site for added privacy. Then, share the link with your guests via save-the-dates, invitations, or email.

Tips for Success:

• Start early: Begin building your website 10 months to a year before your wedding to allow for design and updates.
• Opt for a custom URL: A shorter, personalized URL is easier for guests to remember and fits better on paper invitations.
• Include icebreakers: Share your love story, key moments, and introductions to your wedding party to break the ice and engage guests.
• Make it mobile-friendly: Ensure your website is easy to browse on mobile devices, as guests often access information on the go.
• Enable notifications: Opt for notifications to quickly inform guests about any last-minute changes or updates.
• Visual uniformity: Match your website design with your save-the-dates, invitations, and thank-you cards for a cohesive look.
• Follow up with photos: Share your wedding photos on the website if you prefer to keep them off social media.

How to share your wedding website with guests

Sharing your wedding website with guests is a great way to display important information about your wedding and related events. Here are some tips on how to share your wedding website effectively:

Timing is key:

There is no such thing as sharing your wedding website too soon. It is recommended to create and share your wedding website as early as possible, especially if you want guests to have access to your wedding registry for your engagement party or shower. Sending out this information early will also give your guests time to familiarize themselves with the website and all the details it contains.

Include the link on save-the-dates:

Once you have a confirmed wedding date, time, and location, it's time to create your wedding website. Include the link to your website on your save-the-date cards and send them out to your guests. This way, they can easily access all the information they need in one place.

Share on pre-wedding event invitations:

In addition to save-the-dates, you can also include your wedding website link on any pre-wedding event invitations, such as bridal shower or engagement party invites. This ensures that guests have multiple opportunities to access and familiarize themselves with your website.

Slip an insert with your invitations:

While it is not recommended to print your wedding website URL on your formal invitations, you can include an additional insert with website information inside your invitation suite. This way, guests will have a physical reminder of your website and can easily access it when needed.

Share via email or text:

Another way to share your wedding website is by sending the link directly to your guests via email or text. This method allows you to personalize your message and include a warm invitation to visit the website. You can also use this opportunity to emphasize that their presence at the wedding is more than enough, softening any potential perception of gift-grabbing.

Utilize word of mouth:

Don't underestimate the power of good old-fashioned word of mouth! Share the details of your wedding website with your immediate family, bridesmaids, and groomsmen, and let them spread the word on your behalf. This ensures that guests who may not be as tech-savvy still have access to the information.

Remember, your wedding website is a great tool to keep your guests informed and involved throughout the wedding planning process and the big day itself. By sharing it effectively, you can ensure that your guests have all the information they need to fully participate in your special day.

Frequently asked questions