Recent years have seen a spike in popularity of “unplugged” weddings. This means guests are discouraged or not allowed to use cell phones or other electronic devices during the ceremony.
Should your ceremony be unplugged? It’s a matter of taste, but there are advantages.
An unplugged ceremony keeps the guests focused on the event, rather than texting or seeing what’s online. It also ensures there won’t be a lot of amateur photography or videography, which could be distracting. (And might detract from the shots your professional photographer and videographer are trying to get – we’ve had a few Aunts step into the aisle to take a photo with their iPhone, right as the Bride is walking down the aisle… 😉 )
However, if you don’t mind people taking their own pictures and video, then there’s probably no need for an unplugged ceremony. Though it’s always a good idea to ask your attendees to at least turn their sound off, so the proceedings aren’t interrupted by a phone call or a text alert. No one wants to be in the middle of an emotional vow exchange and then suddenly hear their aunt’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” ringtone echoing through the venue!
As you can see, making your ceremony officially unplugged is really based on your general attitude toward cell phones. If you think it’s cool that everyone can use them to snap some photos and take a piece of the wedding home with them, then there’s no need to worry about it. But if you think mobile devices are an annoying distraction, then go ahead and get an Unplugged Sign.