With the rise of new technology, virtual weddings have skyrocketed in popularity as a way to celebrate love and unity, especially during times of worldwide lockdown caused the pandemic. If you’re considering hosting a small intimate gathering or a large scale virtual event, here are some pointers to help you plan your wedding virtually. The following guide outlines everything you may need to ensure your virtual wedding runs as smoothly and beautifully as possible.

Choosing the right platform is one of the most important steps of planning a virtual wedding. Whether it is Wedding Wire, Zoom, or Google Meet, make sure that whichever platform you choose, it is reliable and can host every single one of your guests. Be sure to check that you can have an optimal video and audio experience. Furthermore, make sure the platform you choose allows features such as live-streaming, screen sharing, and even breakout rooms for smaller group discussions.

Virtual weddings do not require physical paper invitations. Make sure that everything is well organized within the invitation, including the time, date, platform, and the link for attending the wedding. You can include details like dress codes or registry items using email or wedding website invitations. 

Reviewing your estimated virtual guest list size will assist you in appropriately planning for a virtual wedding. Unlike in-person weddings which can include hundreds of guests, online weddings may need to be smaller in size. Small circles composed of relatives and close friends or larger circles that include some acquaintances are options to set expectations for virtual attendees. Also, remember to consider different time zones if there are international guests.

Prior to your special day, check that audio and video technology is functioning well for the couple, family members, and the officiant. The sound and the visuals are crucial in a ceremony, so consider purchasing a good webcam, microphone, and lighting for them. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, make it a point to check everything in advance, much earlier before the day arrives.

Being away from a particular venue does not give you a reason to relax the confines of your attire. Ensure that the bride and groom come dressed fully, ready for an actual wedding. If any guests attending the wedding virtually are let in within the dress code parameters, then they too, should comply. Decorating adds to the virtual wedding itself, and therefore, the guests should not shy off from putting on some celebratory clothing for a joyous occasion.

One of the hurdles in the case of virtual weddings is steaming guests’ equanimity throughout the whole ceremony, particularly with bigger audiences. Try to include as much as possible virtual audience participation, promotional Q&A, messages to a digital guestbook. You might also energize the audience during the reception with a good fuel list (or even better, perform live). This way, the guests as participants will alternately the the celebration feel further elaborate and takes part.

Prepare to assist joining the virtual ceremony, which requires some basic technical skills from your guests. A comprehensive do-it-yourself guide that includes solving common problem will do wonders. Troubles including the most efficient ways to view the ceremony, microphones, or chat features will all be considered helpful and included.

Similarly to physical weddings, a virtual event has its own set of rules to bear in mind. Respect the mic quyietness principle and avoid unnecessary movements while seeking attention through camera lenses. Joining and exiting the event silently is important too, particularly during powerful events such as the vows or rings ceremony, which is also the attention grabber for the purpose of the event.

Your guests may not be there physically, but they are part of the wedding in more ways than you can imagine. Think of the best ways to include them and how to make them feel a part of the wedding. You can send pre-wedding packages that include wedding favors, a printed program, or a meal/cocktail kit to enjoy while watching the wedding. These gestures can enhance the virtual experience and make your guests feel special.