As wonderfully convenient as technology may be for both planning and experiencing weddings, technology can bring its own unique etiquette challenges when it comes to tying the knot. Here are some of the new ground rules for a modern bride to consider:

1. Tell your close family and friends before you socially announce your news

It’s just not the same for your loved ones to read about your engagement on Facebook or to see a photo of the ring on your Instagram, as it is to hear you say it yourself, either in person or over a phone call. Have the courtesy to share your exciting news in a personal way with those who are closest to you before you tell the whole world in 140 characters or less.

2. Start pinning!

Pinterest is a great resource for all brides, create your own secret board and start a collection of all the ideas and wedding suppliers you come across in your planning! We can guarantee at some point you’ll want to refer back to that photo you liked – on that blog you were on 6 weeks ago – of that dress that was white with lace – by that designer you really liked … But you just cant seem to remember the name of it … yes, good luck with that!

3. Assign an Instagram hashtag to your big day

Display a beautiful sign at the reception encouraging guests to post their best moments throughout the evening. You will have a blast scoping out their snapshots after the wedding, it will ease the pain of waiting for the proofs from the photographer too. We suggest including the hashtag on other signage (i.e. the invitations, the menu, the ceremony program) as well. #em&willswedding

4. Don’t share everything on social media

Don’t post everything about your wedding plans on social media site; it’s important to keep the surprise element for the big day. Also holding back on posting your plans can make your life easier: it will reduce unsolicited advice, number of questions, hurt feelings and self-invited guests.

5. Consider an Unplugged Ceremony

Many brides are asking guests at the ceremony to put their phones away! Not only should the bride get to share the first pic of herself and her new hubby but sometimes guests get in the way of the real thing! The amount of ruined photos there can be due to an unwanted flash going off or a guest who steps into the isle and gets in the way of the professional photographer.

“Welcome, friends and family! Kayla and Justin invite you to be truly present at this special time. Please, turn off your cell phones and put down your cameras. The photographer will capture how this moment looks — I encourage you all to capture how it feels with your hearts, without the distraction of technology. “

 

Photo Sharing Apps

WedPics:

Our Rating: 5/5

WedPics is an easy way for your wedding party, family and friends to share their photos & videos in a personalised wedding album! Enter the unique Wedding ID, take photos, videos, add custom filters and ‘voila!’ – every photo & video captured during your wedding will be uploaded to your own private album! You can also order prints directly from the app that can be delivered right to your door step! It is easy to use and you can easily invite guests to join the app via Email or Text.

Cost: Free

Wed Social:

Our Rating: 4/5

Get to the heart of the social side of a wedding with this app. We love that it was invented by a real engaged couple who wanted to create a completely customizable and interactive experience for brides and grooms everywhere. With this app, you’ll never get lost on your way to a wedding again — the bride and groom will enter all of the event info and, with a tap of an app, you can get turn-by-turn directions to the venue through Wed Social’s partnership with Google Maps.  There is so much more to this app than just photo sharing; it truly is a digital storyteller.

Cost: Free