Want An Unplugged Wedding? 5 Ways To Increase Guest Buy-In
An unplugged wedding is a great choice for many couples. By asking guests not to attempt to capture key moments — in particular, the crucial ceremony moments — on their own phones, you let the photographer work freely and prevent anyone from spoiling a shot. But wedding guests don't always understand the value of an unplugged wedding. So how can you increase buy-in by your guests? Here are a few ways.
1. Mention It Early. The sooner you bring up the idea of an unplugged wedding, the more people will become used to it. Mention this casually in conversations about wedding planning. Include it on your wedding invitations or RSVP cards. And put it on the wedding website if you have one.
2. Offer Alternatives. Guests stretch to try to get their own photos of a wedding because they want a keepsake. So, give them a keepsake. Make it clear that everyone will be able to access a few select professional photos via the wedding website, by request, or in thank-you cards. Emphasize that these will be better pictures than they can capture themselves.
3. Distract Guests. Distraction is a great way to give people something else to do rather than pull out their phones at key moments. Depending on your plans, you might distract guests during the ceremony by handing out props and letting them participate. Place disposable cameras on reception tables and encourage people to take pictures of themselves. Provide a photo booth as a fun activity. Or give photo hogs a job to do at important moments.
4. Remind Guests. Place reminders of the unplugged nature of your wedding around the space. Craft a cute reminder sign near the entrance or as they approach the seating area. Ask the officiant to remind guests verbally before the ceremony begins. Or ask attendants to mention it as people wait for the guest book.
5. Extoll the Virtues. People are more inclined to follow instructions if they agree with those instructions. So talk up the value of an unplugged wedding. Let people know how it will ensure great photos for all or how it adds to the intimacy of the vows and other important moments. Get your friends and family on board for positive word-of-mouth. And you might even let the photographer explain it.
Where to Start
Do you want to make sure your photographer can capture the best images from your big day by planning an unplugged wedding? Start by learning more about its merits and the best approaches by meeting with a professional wedding photographer in your area such as John Paul Studios today.