A Virtual Wedding to Remember

If you're one of the thousands of couples faced with the difficult and emotional decision to cancel or postpone your wedding as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, you're understandably disappointed. The wedding industry has been thrown for a loop, and many momentous plans have been halted. Not only are wedding dates being postponed, but couples now face the harsh reality that they may not be able to have that large-scale dream wedding full of friends and family from around the world.

This pandemic has taught us about the power of technology (...and religious hand washing). We live in a digital age where information is at our finger tips, the faces of our loved ones are on our screens, and wedding planning is possible from the couch!

Couples aren't letting a global pandemic or social distancing get in the way of getting married. Because love always wins. Instead, they're finding new and creative ways to make their special day one to remember.

The industry is adapting to these trying times and the trend of virtual weddings is catching on. A virtual wedding is a wonderful alternative to postponing or canceling your special day and can be a temporary placeholder for the real thing.

Here's a couple tips on planning a virtual wedding to remember!

1. Virtual Vendor Consultations
With social gatherings being limited to 5 persons currently, it's a great idea to setup Zoom or Skype video calls with your prospective photographers, videographers, decorators and more.  This way you can e-meet each other, discuss ideas, see samples of their work and discuss details of packages and contracts. It is important to keep record of your conversations and ensure all vendors are on the same page with regards to execution on the day of your wedding.

2. Virtual Pre-Wedding Shenanigans
Three words...virtual happy hour! Spend some quality time with your wedding party by hosting a virtual bridal shower or pre-wedding bash. Social distancing does not mean that you can't socialise. Take advantage of technology and use it to get the gals and guys together, I promise it'll lift your spirits. Hop on a Zoom call and B.Y.O.B!


3. Choose your platform
Although an Instagram or Facebook Live wedding sounds fun, you may want to consider something with a little more privacy. Zoom has pretty much taken over the world since we've been in lockdown and it's no longer only  used for meetings and school. Zoom is a great platform for "hosting" your guests and it's super easy to use. 

4. Coordinate Vendors
Although some non-essential businesses are still technically closed, they could still use the support. Photographers, videographers, coordinators, decorators and others are now adapting to the concept of micro weddings and can still make your big day a dream come true. Here are some my local faves (with their instagram handles) who have adapted to the current circumstances:

Wedding Planning and Coordination- @eventsbytriciatt
Photography and Videography- @rinkfilms
Party Supply and Rental Shop- @thepartyandeventco_tt
Catering Service- @chefchelseamarie
Designer and Decorator- @jgsignatureweddings

5. Send out your invitations
Since you're getting married virtually, why not go the digital route with your invitations too? Get creative. Hop on Canva and design your wedding invitations and email them to your friends and family! 

6. Rehearse
Technology is fantastic......until it isn't. Do a rehearsal the day before your virtual wedding to ensure that all devices are working properly and that your WiFi connection is fast and strong. Your vendors may require special lighting depending on where you choose to live stream from, and camera angles are important for capturing the right moments.

7. Lights, Camera, Hair and Makeup
It may not be exactly what you envisioned, but I promise it's going to be a day to remember! Wear your special dress or sub it for a less expensive one until you can actually have that reception of your dreams. Some couples even choose to go a little more casual, but you're the star of the show so go big or stay home (no pun intended). Coordinate your hair and makeup vendors strategically to ensure that everyone is staying safe and avoiding crowds. 

8. Here comes the Bride...and Groom
Plan a short program. Adding an aspect of formality to your virtual wedding makes a big difference. Let your guests know about potential speeches and toasts so the they ensure their glasses are topped up. Zoom is especially great for hosting a virtual wedding because it allows speaker view so each guests can get their chance in the spotlight to toast to the Bride and Groom. Don't forget to include your first dance and cutting of the cake, no matter how silly it may seem.

Before you know it, everyones chatting, sending you well wishes and ending one of the most memorable nights of their Covid-19 experience. Just remember, even though you had a virtual wedding today, you can STILL have your dream wedding later!

BONUS: By the time your "real" wedding date comes around there's no pressure. You got this!

BONUS BONUS: You get to pop champagne twice to celebrate two anniversary dates! 

If you're a Bride or Groom let us know how you're coping during the pandemic and let us know your thoughts on Virtual Weddings!

With love,
Tulle and Tuxedo 

Check out this cool video on Virtual Weddings below!