A Beginner’s Guide To Planning A Wedding During COVID
If the pandemic restrictions are preventing you from having your loved ones at your wedding, fret not, as you can still celebrate with them. Living in this day and age of virtual technology, you can still proceed with the festivities!
Today, live streaming is a readily available option if you want to broadcast your occasion to your loved ones. Moreover, videography and event specialists have figured out a way to incorporate it into different setups while also making it fun and interactive.
If you’re considering embracing the idea of a virtual party to include everyone you love in your wedding, Signature Manor is here to help. We know wedding planning can be stressful as is, and once you add the pandemic to the equation, it can seem even more tedious. To ensure that you are well equipped to deal with a pandemic wedding, we have put together a beginner’s guide to planning a wedding during COVID.
Getting Started
Hire a professional planner: A professional wedding planner or venue coordinator can clue you into what clients have done in the past when it comes to your technological options as well as safety logistics. They will create the safest environment possible before, during, and after the wedding. This way, you can have your dream wedding without worrying too much about your loved ones’ safety and can push aside all worries of the Coronavirus.
Figure out your virtual options: To figure out your virtual options, it’s best to see if adding an additional technological service is within your budget. The virtual options range from going with a budget-friendly setup of a spare tablet or phone with Zoom to hiring an A/V company to broadcast something on a large screen. You’ll also need to see if your venue’s WiFi can handle your broadcasting or live streaming requirements. Streaming is intensive, so you must ensure you have a steady connection.
Next Steps
Confirm your guest count: Get your guest count confirmed to know what percentage will require physical and virtual accommodations. Make sure you consider how important a person is to you personally before you add them to your Livestream guestlist. Accordingly, you can make the arrangements and budget for your wedding.
Consider your options: Your wedding Livestream can be interactive or not. It is up to you. To make your decision, you will want to create a list of pros and cons for each method. For example, allowing for interactivity means your guests will feel more engaged, but that also allows for kids, pets, or other things to interrupt. Removing the interactive aspect means that you will have an easier time setting up the logistics since it’s a one-way communication, but that also means that you won’t be able to chat with your virtual guests.
Choose a broadcasting specialist: Hiring a professional in A/V or asking your planner, venue, or videographer to suggest an expert is a good idea. These professionals will be dedicated to the task and will check if your camera placement(s) and angle(s) are ideal for capturing the most important moments of the celebration.
Three mistakes to avoid while planning for virtual accommodations:
1. Don’t rely on your venue’s internet connection alone: Your guests may be using the same connection, and your streaming may suffer or be disconnected as a result. Make sure to have another reliable source of internet connection to ensure a smoother streaming experience.
2. Have your streaming equipment prepped and ready: If you choose to use a phone for your camera, make sure it’s in do not disturb mode and that notifications are off so your streaming isn’t interrupted. Also, check that your professional camera is on the right setting and is connected to a reliable and constant internet connection.
3. Have backups ready: Try to have backup devices with cameras, just in case you need them. You don’t know what could go wrong, and it’s best to be prepared.
Advice From The Pros
Consider investing in multiple cameras and internet hotspots: Once you have your internet situated as well as your device and placement, you’re ready to go! Depending on your budget, you may be able to consider multiple cameras for capturing essential moments like what’s happening on the dance floor or near the stage. Also, come prepared with backup devices and backup internet hotspots as you never know when something could go wrong.
At Signature Manor, we plan your big day meticulously, so it goes off without a hitch. As experienced event planners in Houston, TX, we’ve seen it all and are here to offer you guidance and help. We recognize the importance and deep significance of your wedding day. From the moment of your first visit to the departure of your last guest at your wedding, you will experience a level of personalized service and a sense of our sincere commitment to you, your family, and friends. Allow our experienced staff to guide you on your journey through the planning stages of your big day, and you can relax, knowing that your every need will be met.
Visit our website to learn more or contact Signature Manor today!