Carnival Wedding Live Stream: A Unique Celebration

Live-streaming a wedding is a great way to include guests who can't attend in person. Whether you're getting married in an exotic location or dealing with an outbreak of Covid-19, live-streaming can help you share your special day with loved ones all over the world. There are many video-streaming apps and services available that make live-streaming easy and affordable. You can even live stream your wedding for free using Facebook Live, Instagram TV, YouTube Live, Twitter Periscope, Amazon Twitch, or Zoom. If you're looking for a more professional stream, companies like LoveStream offer full-service wedding live-streaming packages that include custom websites, tech rehearsals, and remote producers. So whether you're tying the knot on a Carnival cruise or in a country club, live-streaming is a great option to consider for your big day.

Live streaming equipment

Live streaming a carnival wedding is a great way to include those who can't attend in-person. To ensure your virtual guests have the best possible experience, it's important to invest in some key pieces of equipment. Here is a list of equipment you may want to consider:

Streaming Devices

You can stream your wedding using devices you already own, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or even a GoPro. Ensure your device has a good camera and clean the lens before you start! If you want to take it up a notch, you can rent heavy-duty equipment, including streaming devices and tripods, from companies like LoveStream.

Tripod

A tripod is essential to ensure your camera stays stable and provides a clear, uninterrupted view for your virtual guests. You can purchase lightweight tripods online or from retailers like Amazon or Best Buy. If you're looking for something more heavy-duty, consider renting from a company that specialises in live streaming equipment.

Microphone

While not essential, a microphone can significantly improve the audio quality of your live stream. If you're streaming outdoors, consider investing in an external microphone with a sound baffle to reduce noise from wind, guest chatter, or background distractions. LoveStream, for example, offers rentable broadcast-quality, wireless clip-on microphone kits.

Lighting

Proper lighting can enhance the visual quality of your stream. A ring light or softbox lights can help illuminate the subject evenly and reduce shadows. Amazon offers a variety of lighting kits, including ring lights with tripod stands, that are perfect for live streaming.

Streaming Platform

There are numerous platforms available for live streaming, many of which are free to use. The most common streaming platforms include Facebook Live, Instagram TV, YouTube Live, Twitter Periscope, Amazon Twitch, and Zoom.

Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is crucial for live streaming. While a good 4G or 5G connection may suffice, fibre internet is ideal, especially if you're streaming in HD or 4K quality.

With the right equipment, you can ensure your virtual guests have a front-row experience and feel included in your special day.

Live streaming costs

Live streaming a wedding can be a great way to include loved ones who are unable to attend in-person, and there are a variety of options available to suit different budgets. The costs of live streaming a wedding can vary depending on the level of professionalism and production quality desired. Here is a breakdown of the costs involved:

DIY Live Streaming:

This option typically involves using your own equipment, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, and utilising free live streaming platforms like Facebook Live, Instagram TV, YouTube Live, or Zoom. While this option may not offer the same level of production quality as professional services, it can be a cost-effective way to live stream your wedding. The main costs associated with this option include any upgrades to equipment, such as purchasing a tripod or external microphone, which can range from $30 to a few hundred dollars. Additionally, you may need to consider the cost of internet connectivity to ensure a stable stream.

Professional Live Streaming Services:

Hiring a professional live streaming service can provide a more reliable and high-quality stream for your wedding. These services typically offer packages that include multiple cameras, audio equipment, and a dedicated producer to ensure a seamless experience. The costs for professional live streaming services can vary widely depending on the features included and the level of customisation. Basic packages can start from as low as $400, while more comprehensive packages can range from $800 to $3000. For example, Wedfuly offers packages ranging from $800 to $1800, which include features such as pre-recorded guest messages, post-event experiences, and dedicated customer support.

Videography Services:

If you're looking for a more traditional approach, hiring a videographer can be an option. Videography services typically include filming and producing a high-quality video of your wedding, which can then be shared with guests after the event. The cost of videography services can vary depending on the experience of the videographer, the equipment used, and the complexity of the event. High-quality video production can cost anywhere between $1500 and $5000 per day, with additional fees for audio services and equipment.

It's important to note that the costs outlined above can serve as a general guide, and the final price may depend on your specific requirements, location, and the level of customisation desired. Additionally, some live streaming platforms offer monthly plans with varying features and price ranges, which can be a good option for those looking to stream regularly.

Best platforms for live streaming

Live streaming your wedding is a great way to include guests who can't attend in person. There are two main options for live streaming: full-service platforms and DIY platforms. Full-service platforms are more polished and reliable but come with a price, whereas DIY platforms are free but may be less "polished".

Full-Service Wedding Livestream Platforms

• LoveStream: Built specifically for virtual weddings, LoveStream offers one-click streaming access for unlimited guests, simple set-up, options for multiple camera views, and extras like virtual wedding planning, guest books, and professional streaming equipment rental.
• Simply Eloped: A team of legally ordained officiants who offer tech support, consultation, and recording of the ceremony.
• Wedfuly: In collaboration with Zoom, Wedfuly offers 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 live streams your event and also offers couples legal ceremonies.
• Married Livestream: A professional videography service with multiple camera angles and high-quality audio.
• Powder & Pearls: UK-based cinematography team that creates live and traditional wedding videos.

DIY Wedding Livestream Platforms

• Lovecast: A simple and free wedding livestream mobile app that uses text notifications to alert guests. It features 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.
• Joy: A wedding planning website that offers live streaming through any live streaming platform of your choosing.
• Zoom: A familiar platform for many, Zoom allows up to 100 participants for free but limits calls to 40 minutes.
• Google Hangouts: A free platform that allows up to 25 guests with no time limit.
• Facebook Live: A large event streaming platform with unlimited participants and 8 hours of consecutive live streaming.
• YouTube Live: Allows you to use your computer or phone's webcam to stream live, then save and share the video whenever you like.
• Instagram Live: Stream your wedding live for all your friends, family, and followers to watch. Save it in your highlights to watch forever!

Other Options

If you're looking for a more simple and cost-effective solution, you can also consider using social media platforms or apps such as Facebook, Instagram, or the EventLive app. These options may have fewer features and limitations on viewers and streaming time, but they are easy to use and accessible to everyone.

How to live stream with Facebook Live

Facebook Live is a video streaming feature that lets you broadcast a live video to a Facebook profile, page, or group. It is free to use and can be accessed by anyone with a Facebook account.

• Open the Facebook app.
• Tap the camera icon to the left of your search bar.
• Approve Facebook’s access request to your camera and microphone.
• Choose the "Live" prompt on your screen.
• Choose your privacy and posting settings.
• Write a description for your stream.
• Tag pages, co-hosts, add a location tag, or add an activity—similar to how you would in a regular Facebook status update.
• Set your camera's orientation—for mobile users, this will be landscape or portrait.
• Tap the "Start Live Video" button to begin streaming.
• Click "Finish" to end the broadcast.
• Open Facebook and log in.
• Click the status bar, similar to how you would if you were writing a status update.
• Select the “see more” function, and then select “live video”.
• Once in the “Live Producer”, allow access to the camera and microphone.
• Choose your privacy and posting settings.
• Write a post text description for your stream.
• Tag pages, co-hosts, add a location tag, or add an activity.
• Tap the "Go Live" button to start streaming.
• Click "Finish" to end the broadcast.

Interacting with virtual wedding guests

There are many ways to interact with virtual wedding guests and make them feel included in your special day. Here are some ideas to help you get started:

Before the Wedding

• Send decor, food, drinks, and/or favors to your virtual guests in advance. This can include festive items like balloons or banners, special snacks, mini bottles of champagne, or unique favors.
• Create a custom Zoom background for all guests to use, helping to create a unified and celebratory atmosphere.
• Start the video experience early and allow virtual guests to join unmuted so they can greet each other and catch up.
• Open up the "Zoom room" or virtual hangout space an hour or so before the ceremony, giving guests time to chat and play ice-breaker games.
• Assign a "technology coordinator" who can ensure the livestream is working, troubleshoot any issues, and make sure virtual guests can see and hear the proceedings clearly.
• Test your livestream setup in advance to ensure a smooth experience on the day.

During the Wedding

• Set up multiple camera angles to give virtual guests an authentic glimpse of each element of the wedding, such as the processional, ceremony, and a close-up of the couple.
• Choose a location with good lighting, ideally natural light, and clear any clutter from the background.
• Decorate the space with flowers, candles, and rentals to create a beautiful backdrop for your virtual guests to enjoy.
• Utilize at-home cameras and involve guests who are joining from their homes. For example, have a cousin do a reading or a college roommate sing during the ceremony.
• Share the livestream link with all guests, whether they are attending in person or virtually, so they can dip into the live feed during the cocktail hour or after the ceremony.
• Create a virtual shout-out by asking key at-home guests to prepare a message to share during the reception.
• Make your stream interactive by letting virtual guests know that a member of the wedding party will read their chat messages aloud.
• Start a dance party and let your virtual guests know they can play a song of their choice and dance along.
• Show a video or montage of photos of the couple from their childhood and throughout their relationship while guests wait for the ceremony to begin.
• Assign toasts or readings to virtual guests, ensuring they feel included in the celebrations.
• Check in and thank your virtual guests directly at different points throughout the day.

After the Wedding

• Make your wedding video and images available to virtual guests so they can relive the special moments.
• Put screen captures from funny or meaningful moments on social media to encourage guests to reminisce.
• Open wedding gifts virtually with the givers, and be sure to follow up with a thank-you note.
• Host a cookout or small event after the wedding so everyone can gather and celebrate together.

By incorporating these ideas, you can ensure that your virtual wedding guests feel involved and valued, creating a memorable and inclusive celebration.

Frequently asked questions