This is important.

So important that during every client’s logistics consult, we ask if clients would like to have an unplugged wedding.

Every. Single. Time.

Most of our clients haven’t heard of it and when they google the term, come back immediately and say, “YES! We want one!”.  The remaining will say something to the effect of, “No, we think it’s really fun to see all the images that our guests take of our wedding”.  And that sounds good in theory, until you get your images back and crucial or memorable moments have been ruined by an influx of guests with their arms held high in the air with their cell phones, cameras and iPads.  I can’t imagine how deflating it must be to get your images and see your absolute favorite shot, to have it ruined by clutter and intrusion.  The fact of the matter is, you’ve invested a great deal of money in the talent you’ve hired document your day.  Part of that talent is their interpretation of your day’s events, not photoshopping people out of them.  It is rare that there is a picture that your guests will take that will rival the professional quality of the one your photographer will take.  Your guests’ pictures aren’t as important as your photographer’s– period.  Your guests aren’t as invested in your images as you are. They are just moments that will sit on their phone and will ultimately be deleted. For you, this is the moment.

So without further ado, here are 20 reasons you should have an unplugged wedding:

Photo by Samantha Melanson

Photo via Be A Bride

Photo by Corey Ann Photography

Photo by Corey Ann Photography

Photo by Corey Ann Photography

Photo by Corey Ann Photography

Photo by DNM Wedding Films

Photo by Joesan Photo

Photo by Kelly Cameron

Photo by Krista Photography

Photo by Lapis Lazuli Photography

Photo by Lemon Tree Film House

Photo by Leon Bailey

Photo via Masterpiece Weddings

Photo by Misha Media

Photo by Mitchell Dyer

Photo via My Little Bridal Blog

Photo by Neilvn

Photo via Proud to Plan

Photo by Rebekah Hoyt

And I’ll just be honest– there are many ceremonies where the decor is sparse, the background is lacking, etc. either by choice or necessity.  A great photographer has the artistic ability to hone in on angles and details to make it look beyond fabulous.  When your guests get in the way, your photographer is greatly limited and has to widen the shot, not only including intrusive guests, but also missing out on making your ceremony look like a million dollars.

If you don’t need any more convincing, here are some examples of signs that can be put up at the entrance of your ceremony.  I suggest that you also have your officiant or coordinator make an announcement during the prelude as a reminder.