{"id":70167,"date":"2020-06-30T00:49:55","date_gmt":"2020-06-30T00:49:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/?p=70167"},"modified":"2020-07-01T05:05:40","modified_gmt":"2020-07-01T05:05:40","slug":"how-to-plan-virtual-wedding","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/how-to-plan-virtual-wedding\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Plan a Virtual Wedding"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

As wedding plans continue to be impacted by COVID-19<\/a>, undeterred couples have had to get creative. Over the past few months, trends like elopements, virtual bridal showers, and micro-weddings have grown in popularity. Another popular trend, the virtual wedding, has also been favored among couples. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether you’re concerned about social distancing, need to cut your budget, or have a travel-prohibitive destination wedding, choosing to include loved ones via live-stream is a thoughtful way to let them witness and participate in your big day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if a simple elopement is on the docket, you can turn it into a virtual wedding to include friends and family. Just as a wedding website<\/a> with Joy can help you communicate important information, it can also aid in live-streaming your wedding<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read on for creative ways to arrange the virtual celebration of your dreams \u2014 and top considerations to be aware of as you plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Perks of Having a Virtual Wedding<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. It takes less time to plan than a traditional wedding<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Wedding planning usually starts 13-18 months before the wedding date. But with a virtual event, you can get everything settled within a few weeks. If you have circumstances that require a shorter timeline, an elopement<\/a> accompanied by a live-stream is the perfect solution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. You can celebrate with those closest to you<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Culling the guest list is hard. Couples often start with a massive list that includes long-lost high school friends and all those distant \u201ctwice removed\u201d relations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Deciding who attends is a mammoth task, but with a virtual wedding, the list can stay lengthy. Consider a hybrid event with a small guest count that includes friends and family joining via live-stream. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Saving money becomes a breeze<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The smaller the number, the bigger the savings. Not only does this affect the food, like plated dinners and the size of the cake, but factors like setup, printing, and favors are also reduced. Additionally, you may be able to cut a few vendors, like transportation, service staff, and live musicians, out of the mix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. You can ask for input on your wedding date and time<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When you\u2019re dealing with a short timeframe, you may have to consult with your loved ones to see if they can attend your virtual wedding. Poll friends and family ahead of time to come up with a day and time that works for the majority. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Top Considerations for a Virtual Wedding<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"top
Photo by The Coherent Team on Unsplash<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Here are top considerations to factor in when planning and facilitating your virtual wedding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Legalities<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As with any wedding, you\u2019ll need to obtain a marriage license and have an ordained officiant. Getting a permit may be easy if you\u2019re getting married locally. But for a destination wedding, you need to do a bit of extra legwork. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check state and country laws to ensure you have all you need to be legally married via your virtual wedding ceremony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Equipment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Most couples already have multiple screens, including a laptop, smartphone, and tablet, so put them to good use when you say “I do.” Pick devices that have the highest quality cameras, and utilize them for your live-stream. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A tripod and microphone are also recommended. After all, you want to create a stable base and allow your guests to hear what\u2019s going on as you say your vows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Backdrop<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Find a place that\u2019s well-lit, ideally with natural light. Be sure to test the lighting during the time of day you wish to get married. Then clear out the clutter and decorate with flowers, candles, and any rentals you wish to use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tip: <\/strong>You can also consult with your vendors on how to create the perfect backdrop for your virtual nuptials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vendors<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You might already have your vendors in place if you switched from a big event to a hybrid wedding. It\u2019s still possible to work with your wedding pros on a smaller scale as you adjust for a simple affair. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are several vendors you may work with, including tips on how they can help, for your virtual wedding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n