Now that we’ve explored all the amazing ways social media can enhance weddings, let’s review social media etiquette for guests. One of the best aspects of social media is the ability to capture every moment, big or small, and preserve it forever—but that can also be the worst part of social media. That’s why it’s vital to make sure everyone understands how to properly use social media when commemorating one of the most important days in someone’s life. (Feel free to share these dos and don’ts with your own guests.)
1. Do Respect the Couple’s Wishes.
You may be excited for the day, but it’s nothing compared to how excited the couple is, so it’s important to remember that it is their big day and what they say goes. They may be obsessed with Instagram and want every moment documented, they may ask that you only take pictures at certain times, or they may opt for total privacy and ask all guests to put their phones away. Whatever the case, respect it.
2. Don’t Interfere with the Professional Photographer.
Professional wedding photographers can charge thousands of dollars for a reason. You may take a gorgeous brunch or sunset picture, but that doesn’t mean you’re on the same level as a professional. Let them do their job to capture this once-in-a-lifetime day.
3. Do Stay Positive.
It’s tempting to mock someone’s outlandish dance moves, post a rolling eye emoji during the rambling best-man speech, or show the whole world how the bride broke her heel when she threw the bouquet, but resist the urge to post these #fails. Weddings are a time of joy and new beginnings, not a time to judge. That’s why you should only share warm wishes, happy guests, and flattering pictures of the couple.
4. Don’t Start Posting Too Soon.
Did you get a sneak peek at the bride in her dress before the groom did? Catch a glimpse of the band setting up? Find the table full of wedding favors first? Keep it to yourself. Don’t ruin the natural order of the way the day is supposed to unfold by posting spoilers for everyone to see.
5. Do Use Their Personalized Hashtags and Filters.
If the happy couple has gone out of their way to create custom wedding hashtags, personal Snapchat filters, or other social extras to mark their big day, try and use them whenever possible. Filters are a fun way of connecting your snaps to the wedding and hashtags are an effective way for the couple and their friends and family to see everyone’s great pics and videos.
6. Don’t Live Stream Without Permission.
Live streaming someone else’s wedding to your friends and family is an invasion of the couple’s privacy. They have the right to decide who sees this incredibly personal and intimate time of their life and it’s not up to any guests to share it with the world. If the couple decides they want to live stream their wedding, they will make the arrangements themselves.
Now you understand the best and most respectful ways to use social media at weddings to ensure everyone has the perfect day. Ready to book your wedding or other big event? Contact the experts at Crest Hollow Country Club and start planning today!