Miking The Groom: To Do Or Not To Do?

Mics are an important part of weddings, ensuring that guests can hear the ceremony and that the couple's vows are recorded for posterity. While it is rare for venues or DJs to have three lavalier or headset mics available, it is still possible to mic just the groom. This can be done with a handheld mic, a mic on a stand, a headset mic, or a lavalier mic. However, it is important to consider the drawbacks of each option and to ensure that the groom is comfortable with the chosen setup. In addition, it is crucial to test the mics beforehand and to have backup options available in case of any issues.

Mic placement on the groom

There are several different options for mic placement on the groom, depending on what he is wearing. If the groom is wearing a jacket and waistcoat, the microphone can be clipped to the jacket lapel or the tie, with the wire threaded under the waistcoat and the transmitter placed in the back hip pocket. If the groom is wearing a jacket and tie, the microphone can be placed just inside the natural gap of the collar, with the wire running under the collar and down the back, or underneath the tie, with the wire dropped into the inner pocket of the jacket. If the groom is wearing a tux, the recorder can be placed in the breast pocket, with the wire taped to the inside of the jacket.

Wired vs wireless mics

When it comes to weddings, there are a few options for mics: wireless, wired, and lavalier (lapel). Here is a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons of wired vs wireless mics.

Wired Mics

Wired mics are reliable and provide consistent sound quality with no risk of interference or dropouts. They are often the preferred choice for DJs as they offer a cleaner, stronger sound than wireless mics. Additionally, they don't require batteries, so there is no risk of the mic suddenly cutting out due to low battery. However, wired mics can be restrictive as they limit the movement of the person using them. They can also be cumbersome and may appear in wedding photos, detracting from the overall aesthetic.

Wireless Mics

Wireless mics offer greater flexibility and freedom of movement, making them ideal for speeches, toasts, and announcements. They are also less obtrusive and won't clutter the wedding photos. However, wireless mics can be prone to interference or dropout issues, especially if they are not set up correctly or if there is something interfering with the signal. Additionally, wireless mics require batteries, which need to be replaced regularly to ensure they don't die during use.

In the context of a wedding, both wired and wireless mics have their advantages and disadvantages. For the groom, a wireless lavalier mic could be a good option as it would allow him to move freely and wouldn't require him to hold a mic. However, a wired mic could also work if the groom is happy to stay in one place and doesn't mind the cord. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the specific needs and preferences of the couple and the wedding officiant.

Lavalier mics

Lavalier microphones, also known as lapel mics, are a popular choice for weddings. They are hands-free, no-fuss, and generally produce high-quality audio. Here are some tips and considerations for using lavalier mics:

Placement: Ensure the mic is clipped on securely and placed at the right height. It should be attached to the groom's collar or lapel, preferably pointing downward and just under or at the neck area. This will help avoid popping sounds, bias, and muffled audio.

Clothing: The transmitter pack of the mic is typically placed in the inner jacket pocket or back pocket. However, if the groom will be sitting down, avoid placing it in the back pocket. Additionally, ensure the groom's clothing can accommodate the mic without bulging awkwardly or dangling askew.

Volume Adjustment: If the mic is placed too high or too low, it can affect volume levels. During the soundcheck, ensure the volume is adjusted for both when the groom is looking straight and when he looks down to read from a script.

Backup Options: Consider using additional lavalier mics on the officiant or placing a mic on the officiant's notebook as a backup. You can also use a handheld mic on a stand for the groom to use during the vows.

Wireless Options: Wireless lavalier mics can be a great option, but they are usually more expensive. Ensure you coordinate wireless frequencies with the sound system at the venue to avoid interference.

With proper placement, volume adjustment, and backup options, lavalier mics can effectively capture the groom's audio during a wedding.

Microphone interference

• Choose a Wired Microphone: Wired microphones are a reliable option as they do not face the risk of interference or dropouts. They provide a stable and uninterrupted audio signal, ensuring clear and crisp audio.
• Conduct a Sound Check: Before the ceremony, conduct a sound check to identify any potential issues. Ensure the microphone is capturing clear sound and make adjustments if any interference or unwanted noise is detected.
• Use a Combination of Microphones: Using multiple microphones can help reduce the impact of interference. For example, you can use a wireless microphone for the officiant and a handheld microphone for the vows, ensuring optimal sound quality for both.
• Opt for Lavalier Microphones: Lavalier microphones, also known as lapel microphones, are small and discreet. They can be easily clipped onto the clothing of the person speaking, providing hands-free operation and clear audio capture.
• Position Microphones Strategically: Ensure that microphones are positioned properly and securely. For lapel microphones, clip them onto the clothing tightly to avoid rubbing against the fabric and creating unwanted noise. For the bride, the microphone can be discreetly placed in the middle cleavage area of her dress, balancing audio quality and minimal visibility.
• Use a Dedicated Sound Engineer: For outdoor weddings, consider hiring a sound engineer to manage the audio equipment. They can make necessary adjustments to optimise sound quality and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
• Use Good Quality Speakers: If you have a large number of guests, use high-quality speakers to amplify the sound. This ensures that even those seated farther away can hear clearly without straining.
• Prepare Backup Recordings: Use a discreet wireless audio recorder with a lav microphone to capture a backup audio recording of the ceremony. This ensures that you have a high-quality recording even if there are issues with the main microphone setup.

By following these tips, you can minimise microphone interference and ensure that every word of the wedding ceremony is heard clearly by all guests.

Microphone visibility

There are several types of microphones that can be used during a wedding ceremony, each with its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of visibility:

• Handheld Microphone: This option can be cordless or corded. While a cord may not be a significant factor for a stationary wedding officiant, having a handheld microphone can be cumbersome, especially when combined with holding a binder or exchanging rings.
• Microphone on a Stand: This option provides the officiant with a hands-free experience, allowing them to use their hands for gestures or other activities during the ceremony. However, the stand can be invasive and may appear in many photos, becoming a visual distraction.
• Headset Microphone: Also known as the "Britney Spears mic," this type of microphone is strapped to the face. While it offers hands-free convenience, it may not fit all head sizes equally, and improper adjustment can lead to a hissing or lisping sound.
• Lavalier Microphone (Lapel Mic): This hands-free option generally provides high-quality audio. However, it requires careful placement to avoid rubbing against clothing and creating unwanted background noise. Additionally, the box it clips onto may bulge awkwardly through thin fabric or dangle askew from skirts.

The choice of microphone depends on the couple's preferences and the specific circumstances of the wedding ceremony. For instance, in outdoor weddings, microphones become crucial due to the unpredictable noise levels. Similarly, the size and acoustics of the venue play a role in determining the need for amplification.

To ensure microphone visibility is minimised while functionality is maintained, it is essential to consider the pros and cons of each microphone style and make informed decisions based on the unique context of the wedding.

Frequently asked questions