Live Streaming Your Wedding: Is It Possible?

Live streaming your wedding is a great way to include guests who can't attend in person. Whether your wedding is taking place during a pandemic, or your guest list includes people who are elderly, unwell, or unable to travel, live streaming can ensure that no one misses out on your special day.

There are many different ways to live stream a wedding, from free social media platforms to dedicated live streaming services and professional videography. The best option for you will depend on your budget, how many people you want to invite, and how polished you want the final product to be.

If you're thinking of live streaming your wedding, read on to discover everything you need to know.

Live streaming equipment

Live streaming your wedding is a great way to include guests who can't attend in person. It's also a good way to record, save, and back up your wedding. The good news is that live streaming your wedding is essentially free and easier than you think. If you have a stable internet connection and a smartphone, you can live stream your wedding. However, if you want to take your live stream to the next level, there are several equipment options you can consider. Here is a list of live streaming equipment to enhance your wedding broadcast:

Smartphone

Any smartphone with a camera and internet capabilities can be used for live streaming. iPhones, Android phones, and other smartphones typically have high-quality cameras and the ability to shoot 720 video or higher, making them suitable for live streaming.

Tripod and Phone Mount

A tripod and phone mount are essential for stability and avoiding shaky footage. Look for a lightweight yet sturdy tripod, such as the Manfrotto Compact Light Aluminum tripod.

Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is crucial for live streaming. You can use your cell data, purchase a mobile hotspot, or utilise the WiFi at your venue. Test your internet speed and connection beforehand to ensure it meets the requirements for live streaming.

Microphone

While you can use your phone's built-in microphone, an external microphone will improve audio quality. A wireless lapel microphone, such as the Movo Mobile Mic, can help reduce background noise and ensure clearer audio for your virtual guests.

Live Streaming Service

There are several live streaming services to choose from, including Facebook Live, Zoom, Instagram Live, YouTube, and more. Consider the privacy settings and accessibility for your guests when selecting a platform. Facebook Live and Zoom are popular choices as they are free and widely used.

Laptop

A laptop is necessary if you plan to use external audio equipment, such as a microphone, or if you want to use specific live streaming software. Ensure your laptop can connect to the internet and has Bluetooth capabilities.

Speaker

A speaker system with Bluetooth capabilities is useful for playing music and hearing the audio feed from your live streaming platform.

Battery Packs

External battery packs for your phones are essential to ensure your devices stay charged throughout the event. This is especially important if you are having an outdoor wedding, as the sun can drain battery life.

Lighting

If you are getting married indoors, consider using ring lighting to brighten up the space and improve the video quality for your virtual guests.

Camera

While not necessary, a dedicated camera with live streaming capabilities can enhance your video quality. Look for cameras that stream directly to the internet and provide full HD quality footage.

Capture Card and Laptop

If you want to use a DSLR or mirrorless camera for live streaming, you will need an HDMI cable, an HDMI to USB capture card, and a laptop. This setup allows for higher-quality video but requires more equipment and setup.

Remember, you can keep it simple with just a smartphone and internet connection, or you can invest in additional equipment to enhance the viewing experience for your virtual guests.

Live streaming platforms

Live streaming your wedding is a great way to include guests who cannot attend in person, especially if you are getting married during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is also a good way to record, save, and back up your wedding.

There are two types of live-streaming platforms: "Full-Service Platforms" and "DIY" platforms. Full-Service Platforms offer features like planning, equipment, officiants, and more, and usually come with a price. DIY platforms are traditional social media and communication apps that are generally free.

Full-Service Platforms:

• LoveStream: A platform built specifically for virtual weddings, with features like easy one-click streaming access for unlimited guests, simple set-up, options for multiple camera views, virtual wedding planning, guest books, and professional streaming equipment rental.
• Simply Eloped: A platform created by a team of legally ordained officiants, offering tech support, consultation, and recording of the ceremony.
• Wedfuly: A collaboration with the video meeting platform Zoom, offering luxe virtual wedding packages that include MCs, e-vites, custom wedding websites, rental equipment, highlight reels, and tech support.
• WedWed Mobile: A wedding app tool that not only live streams your event but also offers couples legal ceremonies.
• Married Livestream: A platform that offers professional videography of your day with multiple camera angles and high-quality audio.
• Powder & Pearls: UK-based couples can opt for this professional live streaming and videography option, which creates live and traditional wedding videos.

DIY Platforms:

• Lovecast: A simple and free wedding livestream mobile app that uses text notifications to alert guests. It features easy one-click streaming access for unlimited guests, live chat, and 1080HD video quality.
• WedSites: A wedding website host that makes it easy to embed a link to any virtual wedding events, such as proposals, engagement parties, and bridal showers.
• Joy: Couples who use Joy's wedding website builder can easily access live streaming through their own website using any live streaming platform of their choice, such as Zoom, Google Hangouts, or Facebook Live.
• Zoom: A familiar video conferencing platform that allows up to 100 participants for free but limits calls to 40 minutes. You can upgrade for more guests and longer calls.
• Google Hangouts: Google's video meeting platform allows up to 25 guests with no time limit for free, and you can upgrade for more guests.
• Facebook Live: A large event streaming platform with unlimited participants and 8 hours of consecutive live streaming.
• YouTube Live: Set up your own YouTube wedding channel and stream using your computer or phone's webcam. You can save and share the videos whenever you like.
• Instagram Live: Stream your wedding live for your friends, family, and followers on Instagram, and save it in your highlights.

Live streaming privacy

Live-streaming your wedding is a great way to include guests who cannot attend in person, and it can also serve as a record of your wedding. However, there are some privacy considerations to keep in mind when live-streaming your wedding.

Firstly, it is important to limit access to the live stream to protect your privacy. Avoid posting the link publicly or on your wedding website. Send the link only to those who have been invited and are unable to attend in person. Creating a private Facebook group for online guests and streaming exclusively to that group is a good way to control who can see your wedding.

If you are hiring a professional to manage your live stream, ensure they are aware of your privacy concerns and that they only share the stream with your intended audience.

Another privacy consideration is what parts of the wedding to live stream. It is generally advised to avoid live-streaming the reception, as guests may not want to be on camera while drinking and dancing, and it may make virtual guests feel lonely. However, if you do choose to live stream the reception, it is a good idea to put up a sign explaining the presence of a static camera, such as "Say hi to Grandma, watching from Idaho".

Finally, be mindful of any copyrighted music that may be played during your wedding. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram do not allow copyrighted music due to their policies.

Live streaming costs

Live streaming your wedding is a great way to include guests who can't attend in person. The cost of live streaming a wedding can vary depending on the method you choose. Here is a breakdown of the potential costs involved:

DIY Live Streaming:

The most cost-effective way to live stream your wedding is to do it yourself using your smartphone and free streaming platforms. All you need is a stable internet connection and a device that supports live streaming, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. You can use free social media platforms like Facebook Live, Instagram Live, or YouTube Live, which offer unlimited participants and several hours of consecutive live streaming. Additionally, platforms like Google Hangouts and Zoom offer free basic packages with limited participants and call durations.

Equipment Rental:

To enhance the quality of your live stream, you may consider renting professional equipment. This can include items such as tripods, camera mounts, external microphones, and streaming cameras. These can be rented individually or as part of a package from live streaming service providers. The cost of renting this equipment can range from $50 to a few hundred dollars, depending on the specific items and the rental duration.

Full-Service Wedding Live Streaming Platforms:

If you prefer a more comprehensive solution, full-service wedding live streaming platforms offer various features and services. These platforms typically provide planning, equipment, tech support, and even officiants. Examples include LoveStream, Simply Eloped, and Wedfuly. While these platforms offer convenience and reliability, they come with a higher price tag, with costs ranging from $500 upwards.

Hiring Professionals:

For the highest quality live stream, consider hiring professionals, such as a videographer or a live stream expert, to handle the streaming for you. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to ensure a smooth and high-quality broadcast. The cost of hiring professionals can vary depending on their experience and the services included but generally expect to pay a few hundred dollars or more for their expertise.

Other Costs to Consider:

In addition to the live streaming costs, there may be other expenses to factor in. For example, if you are live streaming from a venue with limited or no Wi-Fi, you may need to purchase a mobile hotspot or boost your mobile data plan to ensure a stable connection. Additionally, if you plan to live stream for an extended period, you may need to upgrade your streaming platform or package to accommodate longer durations and more participants.

In summary, the cost of live streaming your wedding can range from completely free if you use your own equipment and free platforms, to several hundred dollars or more if you opt for full-service platforms or hire professionals. The key is to assess your needs, budget, and the level of production quality you desire, and then choose the option that best suits your requirements.

Live streaming etiquette

Live streaming your wedding is a great way to include guests who can't physically attend. It's also a good way to record and save your wedding. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you're being considerate of your guests, whether they're attending in person or virtually. Here are some tips for live-streaming etiquette:

• Don't include live streaming details on the invitation: While it may be tempting to include live streaming details on your wedding invitation, modern etiquette coach Maggie Oldham advises against this. She suggests treating live streaming as a backup option for those who can't attend and not offering it as an alternative to an in-person invitation.
• Send personal emails with the live stream link: Instead of including live streaming details on the invitation, send a personalized email to guests who RSVP "no" with the link and a note. This way, you're still offering them the opportunity to be a part of your special day without making it a public option.
• Protect your privacy: Avoid posting the live stream link publicly or on your wedding website. Ensure that only those you've invited have access to the link. This will help protect your privacy and the privacy of your guests.
• Consider live streaming only the ceremony: While you may be tempted to live stream the entire event, it's probably best to avoid live streaming the reception. Guests may not feel comfortable being on camera while they're drinking and dancing, and it might make virtual guests feel lonely to see everyone else having fun in person.
• Test the internet connection beforehand: Before your wedding day, test the internet connection at the venue to ensure a smooth live stream. Consider using a wired internet connection instead of relying solely on WiFi. If your ceremony is in a church, ask about any extra fees for live streaming.
• Choose an appropriate platform: Select a live streaming platform that suits your needs. Consider factors such as guest numbers, time limits, and guest accessibility. Some popular options include Zoom, Facebook Live, Instagram Live, and YouTube Live.
• Password-protect your live stream: To further protect your privacy, consider adding a password to your live stream and wedding website. This will prevent uninvited users from crashing your virtual ceremony.
• Start the live stream early: Give your virtual guests enough time to join the live stream before the ceremony begins. Open the live stream 20-30 minutes prior to the ceremony start time, just as you would expect your in-person guests to arrive early.
• Involve your virtual guests: Send a small gift or ask your celebrant to give them a shout-out during the ceremony. Let your virtual guests know that you're thinking of them and wish they could be there in person.
• Get the right equipment: Ensure you have the necessary equipment for live streaming, such as a smartphone with a good camera, a tripod or smartphone mount, and a strong internet connection. Consider using an external microphone, especially for outdoor weddings, to reduce background noise.

Frequently asked questions