Deborah Chan
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we do many things, and weddings are no exception. A virtual wedding is defined as a marriage ceremony that has some or all of its guests joining virtually, via video platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, Facebook Live, or Google Meet.
Couples may choose to have a virtual wedding due to travel restrictions, social distancing requirements, or other reasons. While it may not be what you initially envisioned for your big day, a virtual wedding can still be a special and memorable occasion.
1. Choose a platform: Select a video conferencing or live streaming platform that suits your needs. Popular options include Zoom, WebEx, Facebook Live, and YouTube Live. Consider factors such as the number of guests, interactivity, and cost.
2. Inform your guests: Let your guests know about the change in plans and provide them with the necessary information to access the platform. Manage their expectations and give them directions on attire and any other requirements during the wedding.
3. Legal considerations: The legality of virtual weddings varies depending on your location. Check the laws and requirements in your area to ensure your marriage is legally recognized. This may include obtaining a marriage license and having an officiant and witnesses present, either physically or virtually.
4. Work with vendors: You can still include vendors in your virtual wedding. Engage a DJ or band for music, order a smaller wedding cake, and coordinate with your photographer or videographer to capture the special moments.
5. Prepare and personalize: Do a test run to ensure all the technical aspects are working smoothly. Personalize your wedding by including readings, musical performances, and speeches from your loved ones. You can also send out virtual invitations, dress up, and create a special backdrop or setting for your ceremony.
6. Enjoy your day: Don't forget to enjoy your virtual wedding and celebrate this new chapter in your life! Record the event so you can relive the memories and share them with others.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Platform | Zoom, WebEx, Cvent’s Virtual Attendee Hub, Facebook Live, Lovecast, WebWed Mobile, YouTube Live, HopIn, FaceTime, Skype |
| Guests | Inform guests of the change in plans, confirm attendance, provide access to the platform, give directions on attire and expectations |
| Legality | Check the laws in your area, check with your county clerk, obtain a marriage license |
| Vendors | DJ, wedding band, baker, caterer, photographer, videographer, stylist, set designer, etc. |
| Preparation | Do a test run, ensure all devices are charged, check Wi-Fi or cellular connection, ensure all settings are correct |
What You'll Learn
Choosing a platform
Cost
The cost of virtual wedding platforms can vary depending on the number of guests and the features offered. Some platforms may charge a flat fee, while others may have tiered pricing based on the number of attendees. It's important to consider your budget and choose a platform that fits within your financial plan.
Interactive Features
Decide whether you want a one-way live stream or a more interactive platform. If you want your guests to be able to see and speak with each other, consider choosing a video conferencing platform like Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts. These platforms allow for greater interaction and can make your virtual wedding more engaging for your guests.
On the other hand, if you prefer a one-way broadcast where guests can watch the ceremony without being visible to each other, platforms like Facebook Live, YouTube Live, or Instagram Live might be a better option. These platforms often have fewer restrictions on the number of guests and may offer longer streaming times.
Ease of Use
Consider the technical skills of your guests when choosing a platform. Some platforms, like Zoom, may require guests to download an app, create an account, and navigate sound and video settings. This could be challenging for less tech-savvy guests. Look for platforms that offer simple one-click access and don't require guests to have specialized knowledge.
Privacy and Security
Ensure that the platform you choose has robust privacy and security features. This is especially important if you want to control who can attend your virtual wedding and prevent uninvited guests from joining. Look for platforms that allow you to limit who can join and have strong encryption protocols in place.
Customization Options
Some virtual wedding platforms offer customization options, such as virtual backgrounds, multiple camera angles, and the ability to embed engagement photos or music. If you want to personalize your virtual wedding and make it unique, look for platforms that offer these extra features.
Technical Support
Choose a platform that provides reliable technical support. This is crucial to ensure that your virtual wedding goes smoothly and that any technical issues can be quickly resolved. Look for platforms that offer dedicated tech support staff or a help desk to assist you and your guests.
Legal Considerations
Finally, don't forget to consider the legal aspects of your virtual wedding. Check with your local officials to ensure that your virtual wedding will be recognized as a legal marriage. Some states may have specific requirements or restrictions on remote weddings, so it's important to be informed about the laws in your area.
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Inviting guests
Once you've chosen your platform, it's time to let your guests know about the change of plans. You'll want to confirm their attendance, provide them with access to the platform, and give them directions on attire and other expectations.
Invitations
There are many options for sending out invitations. You can use a platform like Paperless Post or Greenvelope to send out virtual invitations. These platforms offer free, customizable, and eco-friendly options. You can also include the meeting link and instructions on how to turn on their video and audio settings.
Timing
Be sure to give your guests plenty of notice, especially if they are older or less tech-savvy. This will allow them time to ask questions and get any technical assistance they may need.
Gifts
If you plan to send gift baskets to your guests, be sure to ask them to RSVP, as you normally would. You can also include a timeline for when to pop the bubbles or open the snacks during the livestream.
Virtual Lounge
Consider opening up the "virtual lounge" or "virtual hangout" early to give your guests time to chat and catch up before the ceremony begins. This can be facilitated by a designated host who can facilitate ice-breaker games or create breakout rooms.
Communication
It's important to manage your guests' expectations to decrease your own stress during the event. Let them know if they will be muted during certain portions of the wedding, so they don't spend time trying to fix something that isn't broken.
Virtual Address
When sending out your invitations, make sure to specify the time zone and provide the link to your virtual address. This will ensure that your guests know when and where to tune in.
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Making it legal
The legality of virtual weddings can be complicated and depends on your location. In the US, marriage laws vary from state to state, and even county to county. While some states have allowed virtual weddings to be legally recognised during the pandemic, others require an in-person officiant or witness to be present for the marriage to be valid.
To make your virtual wedding legal, you will need to research the specific laws in your state and county. Check whether your local government has made any exceptions due to the pandemic. Some states, such as New York and California, introduced executive orders allowing virtual weddings to be legally recognised during the pandemic. Similarly, Colorado temporarily suspended in-person requirements for marriage licenses, allowing people to apply for them by mail.
To ensure your virtual wedding is legal, you will need to obtain a marriage license. Contact your local County Clerk's Office to find out whether they are open and issuing licenses. Some counties have set up emergency contact information for those who need to get married urgently. If your local office is closed, consider contacting a nearby county to see if they are open.
You will also need to ensure that your officiant is able to sign your marriage license. If they are unable to be physically present, check whether your state has a self-uniting or Quaker marriage law, which may remove the need for an officiant. If not, you could ask a roommate or family member to get ordained online and officiate your wedding.
Finally, some states require one or two witnesses to be present at the ceremony and to sign the marriage license. Again, witnesses may be able to do this virtually, but be sure to check the requirements for your location.
If you are unable to obtain a marriage license or meet the other legal requirements, you could always go ahead with your virtual wedding ceremony and make it legal at a later date.
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Working with vendors
While a virtual wedding may not require the same level of vendor involvement as an in-person wedding, there are still opportunities to include and support your local vendors.
One of the most important considerations for a virtual wedding is the choice of platform. You can opt for a video conferencing platform like Zoom, WebEx, or Skype, which allows for interaction between guests, or a live-streaming platform like Facebook Live or Twitch.TV. These platforms usually have costs associated with the number of guests, so be sure to discuss this with your chosen vendor.
If you had already booked vendors for your in-person wedding, you may still be able to include them in your virtual celebration. For example, you could invite your DJ or wedding band to provide music for the ceremony and reception, which can be live-streamed on social media. Your caterer could provide food and beverage deliveries to your guests' homes, and your baker could make a smaller wedding cake for you and your spouse, with pieces delivered to your guests.
Photographers can also be included in a virtual wedding, either on-site for portraits or remotely, ensuring they don't stand in front of the camera feed!
For those who have already chosen their wedding attire, alterations may be required. Many bridal salons are on schedule with deliveries, but certain styles may need to be rushed. Some salons offer virtual try-ons, where you can snap a photo of yourself and the website will superimpose the selected dress onto your image.
Florists and cake bakers are also offering virtual consultations and curbside pickup options to help you make your decisions.
It's important to stay in close contact with your vendors and keep them updated on your plans, especially if you are hoping to work with them again when in-person celebrations become possible.
Finally, consider hiring a virtual wedding planner to help you navigate the unique challenges of planning a virtual wedding and ensure your big day runs smoothly.
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Preparing for the day
The day before your virtual wedding, you should test your internet connection and run internet speed and connection tests. You should also choose your location and tidy up the space, removing any clutter and decorating with flowers, candles, or other items. You may also want to style your backdrop with decor such as plants, candles, or balloons. It's also a good idea to do a test video to ensure that the sound quality is good and that the lighting is flattering.
On the day, you'll want to ensure that your device is fully charged and that you have clear instructions for your guests on how to join the video call and how to use features such as muting their microphone. You may also want to do a practice call with any less tech-savvy guests.
If you're sending out gift baskets, cocktails, or snacks to your guests, ensure that these are prepared and ready to be sent out.
Finally, get yourself ready! You may want to host a separate Zoom or Facetime with your wedding party, and spend some time with your partner before the ceremony begins.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several platforms to choose from, including Zoom, Facebook Live, YouTube Live, and Lovecast. Zoom is a popular choice as it's user-friendly and many people are already familiar with it. It also has security features and allows for interaction between guests. However, it's not free for large groups, so you'll need to speak to a sales representative to find out the costs.
The legality of virtual weddings varies depending on location. In some states, such as New York and California, virtual marriages are legally recognised. However, in other states, an in-person officiant and witness may be required. Check the laws in your area to ensure your virtual wedding will be considered valid.
Yes! You can still include your vendors in a virtual wedding. For example, you could invite your DJ or wedding band to join the virtual event and provide music for the ceremony and reception. You could also have your baker make a smaller wedding cake and deliver pieces to your guests' homes.
It's important to inform your guests about the change in plans and provide them with access to the platform you're using. You may also need to give them instructions on how to use the platform, such as how to turn on their video and mute their audio during certain portions of the wedding.
This will depend on the size of your wedding. For a more intimate wedding, you may only need a phone. For larger weddings, you'll likely need additional hardware such as a laptop, tablet, or tripod. You'll also want to ensure you have a strong and well-tested internet connection.
