These days, more and more couples are choosing to have an unplugged ceremony as part of their day.

For those of you that this might be new to, an unplugged wedding is one in which electronics are “unplugged”, meaning the guests are politely asked, usually for the ceremony, to refrain from taking photos or video. This has become quite popular in recent years, equally so has the ‘plugged’ wedding where guests are encouraged to take photos throughout the entire day.

Instead of the old disposable cameras left on tables at the reception, guests are invited to download popular ‘free’ apps such as wedpics where they can then upload all their photos taken. This is a great way to encourage guests to use their technology at the same time discouraging them from adding them to social media before the couple have a chance to announce their marriage officially.



There are pros and cons for both sides of this argument and it is really an individual choice. Just remember that by asking guests not to take photos you may also miss out on some great candid shots that your photographers may not capture – they can’t be in all places all of the time.

Your celebrant could commence the ceremony prior to the Bride’s arrival with such words as;

Guests, can you please refrain from taking any photos as the bride enters, however the couple are happy for you to snap away throughout the ceremony. Also, please wait until the newlyweds make their announcement on social media – we all know that it’s not official until the bride and/or groom updates their marital status on facebook!

Or

Please turn off all cameras and devices, sit back and relax while our professional photographer captures this special occasion - we promise to share with you the many beautiful pictures he/she will capture today

Or

The Bride and Groom respectfully request that you please turn your phones to silent … there’s a lovely photographer here taking photos…they asked her to come, so please rest your camera as the ceremony only needs one.

There are so many decisions to make throughout the wedding planning process so try not to let unplugged v plugged by the bug bear that will stress you out! If you are just not sure of what to do then perhaps consider asking for no electronic devices to be used during the ceremony, and then request that they put them to work once the ceremony has concluded.

Regardless of your decision, it will probably fade in to the shadows as you focus on your day unfolding.