We live in a world that never stops buzzing with notifications, pings, cameras, and screens everywhere. So when a couple decides to have an unplugged ceremony, it’s not about being strict or old-fashioned. It’s an invitation to be present.
They want to feel every second, and they want you to feel it too.
What Is an Unplugged Ceremony?
An unplugged wedding ceremony is when you ask your guests to put their phones and cameras away for the ceremony. It’s about wanting your guests to be there fully and wholeheartedly for such a precious moment of your life.
When you stand there, eyes locked on each other, you deserve to see the faces of the people who love you, not the backs of their phones.
Why It Matters
I’ve seen this one too many times. A cousin angling for a selfie mid-vows, a dad stepping into the aisle to “get the shot,” a mom leaning so far forward during the ring exchange that she blocks the view, or three guests clumping together at the aisle, forming a wall of phones.
Of course, I get it. They’re excited, they love you, and they want to remember this moment. But no one looks back fondly on those shaky cell phone clips. But couples do remember how it felt when every single person was truly there with them. That’s what an unplugged wedding ceremony protects.
- Guests focus on YOU and not their phone screens
- No iPhones blocking your pro photos
- Your love feels witnessed and supported
And seeing a sea of smiling faces vs a wall of phones is definitely one of those special moments you’ll remember forever.
How to Ask for an Unplugged Ceremony
This doesn’t have to feel strict or uncomfortable! You can set the tone in a way that feels gentle, warm, and intentional.
Add a Note to Your Invitations
Include a short, loving note on your invitation or wedding website.
“We invite you to be fully present with us during our ceremony. Kindly put away your phones and cameras so we can all soak in the magic together.”
Use a Sign at the Ceremony Entrance
You can have a wooden sign or a framed note near the ceremony entrance that says something like:
“Welcome to our unplugged ceremony! We ask that you put away all devices and join us in being fully present as we exchange our vows.”
“Welcome! We’re having an unplugged ceremony. Please turn off your phones and enjoy this moment with us.”
Have Your Officiant Announce It
This is the most effective way to make sure everyone hears it. Ask your officiant to say something before the ceremony begins, like:
“Name and Name kindly ask you to put away your phones and cameras so we can all be truly present as they exchange their vows. Let’s give them our full attention for this beautiful moment.”
And if you want to offer guests a little grace period, you can have the officiant add: “If you must get a quick photo, go ahead now! But then let’s all tuck our phones away so we can be part of this together.”
Want Guests to Have a Photo? Here Are Some Alternatives
Some guests really want a keepsake from the ceremony, and I totally get that.
- Let them snap a quick photo before it starts. Have your officiant say, “Here’s your 10-second photo op, so get it now!” Then phones go away.
- Encourage guests to take all the photos they want during dinner or the celebration afterward.
- I always send my couples a sneak peek gallery within 24 hours, so you and your guests will have beautiful, professional photos to enjoy quickly!
This Moment Deserves to Be Fully Felt
Listen, you don’t need to do an unplugged ceremony. But if you want to preserve the magic of that moment and if you want to feel your guests’ full presence as you exchange your vows, this is one small change that can make a big difference.
An unplugged ceremony is just one way to make your elopement more meaningful and present. If you’re looking for more ideas to personalize your vows, location, and flow, I put together an Elopement Ceremony Guide that dives deeper into crafting a ceremony that feels intentional from start to finish.
Let’s Get You Married in Lake Tahoe!
Hi, I’m Amanda, your Lake Tahoe elopement photographer and planner. My job is to help you design your elopement day, including the ceremony, that feels personal, relaxed, and exactly right for you… and then document it beautifully.
Check out my portfolio here, and when you’re ready – send me a message here! I cannot wait to hear from you!
