Technology improves so many facets of our lives these days.
It takes ten minutes to order groceries from your smartphone, and you can make
anyone look like a Kardashian in a matter of seconds. There are plenty of
negatives to the growing tech world too - people are glued to their devices,
constantly distracted.
These days, it can be a big decision for a couple to make;
should we allow the use of cell phones, or politely request that they be turned
off? We’re here to help you make that decision!
If you're thinking about allowing cell phones at your
wedding and reception, there are a few things to think about. It's perfectly
acceptable to ask that guests not take photos with the flash. It can interrupt
your photographer's shots and be a general disturbance to the day. Specifically
during your ceremony, it's best to have a sign mentioning that the couple would
appreciate it if guests didn't take pictures (that is why you're paying your
photographer, after all). It's also a
good idea to reiterate that all sounds should be disabled.
Back when disposable cameras were all the rage, people used
to put them out on tables for the reception, in hopes of seeing some of the
fun, silly moments that they may have missed. Now, we see couples asking that
you hashtag images taken at their wedding so they can have a fun little online
album from Twitter and Instagram. We think this is a great idea. People are so
attached to their phones and so used to using them for social media purposes. Asking guests to hashtag photos adds an interactive aspect to your big day and
allows you many, many #tbt opportunities!
If you’re considering asking your guests not to use devices
at your wedding, there are a few things to think about, too! First and
foremost, you are asking people to set down the device that they are probably
holding (or near to) for about three quarters of the day. Talk about separation
anxiety! During the ceremony, it’s certainly acceptable for the couple to ask
guests to pocket phones. It keeps things quiet, intimate and it keeps all eyes
on the newlyweds! After the ceremony, things can get a bit sticky. Your guests
have lives outside of your wedding which may include kids, pets, significant
others. You can’t ask that they not call the babysitter to check in on the kids.
You can, however, have a designated area, within the reception venue, where
guests can be directed to make phone calls and send text messages. Keep in mind
that guests may spend more time here than you’d like.
As times change, so do the rules for etiquette! Keep in mind
that there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to issues like this, just
go with your gut!
Photo Credit: Katie Osgood Photography