Should You Ask Guests to Put Their Phones Away?
In the age of instant sharing and social media, the idea of an "unplugged wedding" has become a hot topic of discussion among couples planning their big day. Some believe that banning phones and cameras enhances the experience, while others argue that allowing guests to document the day creates lasting memories.
If you're torn between embracing technology or enforcing a no-phone policy, Chapman Hill Weddings + Events is here to help you weigh the pros and cons of unplugged weddings, the different ways to implement them, and how to find a balance that works for you.
@summlight_photography
The Case for an Unplugged Wedding
1. Encourages Presence and Engagement
One of the biggest reasons couples opt for an unplugged wedding is to ensure that their guests are fully present. With phones tucked away, guests are more likely to engage in the ceremony, truly listen to vows, and be emotionally present in the moment rather than viewing everything through a screen.
2. Prevents Disruptions
Few things can be as distracting as a sea of glowing screens in an otherwise intimate setting. From unexpected ringtones to camera flashes, mobile devices can interrupt key moments. A well-timed vow or a tender exchange can lose its magic if interrupted by a loud notification or an eager guest stepping into the aisle to snap a photo.
3. Protects Professional Photography
Couples invest significant amounts in hiring professional photographers to capture their wedding day. When guests are busy taking photos, they can unknowingly interfere with the photographer’s work, blocking key shots or using a flash that disrupts the lighting. A professional photographer ensures that every moment is captured beautifully, so guests can relax and enjoy the event.
4. Avoids Unflattering or Premature Photos on Social Media
Not everyone wants their first wedding photos to be candid shots taken from odd angles and posted instantly online. Some couples prefer to share carefully curated images rather than waking up the next day to a flood of blurry, unedited pictures. An unplugged wedding gives the couple control over how their special moments are shared with the world.
coordinator - Sarah Copeland | photo - @carinmcmillianphoto | floral - Jana Fredricks
The Argument Against an Unplugged Wedding
1. Guests Want to Capture Memories Too
Many guests genuinely enjoy snapping their own photos and videos to relive the event later. For some, taking photos is part of how they experience and remember important moments. Restricting this can feel disappointing to those who want their own keepsakes.
2. Family and Friends May Miss Special Moments
Not all wedding guests will be able to attend, and loved ones who couldn’t make it might appreciate real-time updates through social media. Guests who take photos and videos can help bridge this gap by sharing snippets of the celebration with those who couldn’t be there in person.
3. Modern Weddings Thrive on Social Media
For tech-savvy couples, social media is an essential part of the wedding experience. Many create custom hashtags to gather all the images and videos shared by guests. These candid moments can offer a different perspective from the polished professional photos and allow couples to see their wedding through the eyes of their loved ones.
4. It Can Be Difficult to Enforce
Even with clear signage and announcements, some guests may still sneak a photo or forget the rule entirely. Having to police guests can create unnecessary stress for the couple or wedding planners, leading to potential tension on an otherwise joyous day.
@summlight_photography
Finding a Middle Ground
If you’re drawn to the idea of an unplugged wedding but don’t want to impose strict restrictions, there are several ways to compromise and set boundaries that work for you:
1. Have an Unplugged Ceremony, but a Tech-Friendly Reception
Many couples choose to keep the ceremony sacred and device-free while allowing phones and cameras during the reception. This way, guests can be fully present during the vows but still capture fun, candid moments throughout the celebration.
photo - @sabrinakthomasphotography | floral - @pannelldesigns_events | planning/coordination - @georgiadollevents | rentals - @barronsrentals | dj - @ptp_dj
2. Designate a “Photo Time”
Another approach is to allow a brief moment before or after the ceremony where guests are encouraged to take photos. Once that window is closed, guests put away their devices and focus on enjoying the event.
3. Provide a Photo Booth or Disposable Cameras
If guests love taking pictures, offering a fun alternative like a photo booth or disposable cameras can satisfy their desire to capture memories without interfering with the professional photography.
photo - @sabrinakthomasphotography | floral - @pannelldesigns_events | planning/coordination - @georgiadollevents | rentals - @barronsrentals | dj - @ptp_dj
4. Encourage a Hashtag for the Reception
If social media is important to you, consider allowing guests to post pictures but under a shared wedding hashtag. This lets you curate content while still maintaining some control over what gets shared.
How to Implement an Unplugged Wedding
If you’ve decided to go fully or partially unplugged, the key to success is clear communication. Here’s how you can make your expectations known without coming across as overly strict:
1. Mention It in the Invitations
Include a polite note in your wedding invitations explaining your preference. For example: “We kindly ask that you be fully present with us during our ceremony. Please turn off and put away all phones and cameras so we can enjoy this moment together.”
2. Use Signage at the Venue
Place beautifully designed signs at the entrance of your ceremony space to remind guests of the unplugged policy. Something like: “Welcome to our unplugged wedding! We invite you to be fully present with us—please put away your devices and enjoy the moment.”
photo - @kay.nicole.photo | floral - @soireessouthernevents | coordinator - @georgiadollevents
3. Have the Officiant Make an Announcement
Before the ceremony begins, have your officiant politely remind guests about the unplugged policy. A warm, lighthearted announcement can go a long way in ensuring compliance.
4. Trust Your Photographer
Remind guests that you’ve hired a professional to capture all the special moments, and you’ll be happy to share those images with them after the wedding.
There’s no universal right or wrong choice when it comes to having an unplugged wedding. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences, priorities, and how you envision your big day. Whether you go fully unplugged, find a happy medium, or embrace the digital age, the most important thing is that your wedding feels true to you and allows you to enjoy the moment with your loved ones.
What matters most is that everyone—whether with phones in hand or fully unplugged—celebrates your love and creates unforgettable memories together.
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Great blog! 100% occasions like weddings are better without phones. This is great advice.
I'm a fellow venue owner, Talula Mesa Glamping in Austin, TX near Marble Falls, TX
I found you through weddingvenueowners.com, Didi's group.
If I were planning a wedding in Georgia, Chapman Hill Events would be top of my list!