Unplugged wedding ceremonies are becoming more popular, and honestly, for good reason!!! An unplugged ceremony encourages your guests to be fully present in the moment, which is something we all need more of these days. Instead of watching your vows through a phone screen, your people are actually watching you. That alone is a big win!

Another benefit of unplugged wedding ceremonies is fewer interruptions. When guests are reminded to put their phones away, it reduces the chance of a phone ringing during the ceremony. It also helps keep phones out of your ceremony photos and avoids the dreaded aisle leaners. You know the ones … lol. Here are some ways to politely ask your guests to ditch their phones while you say “I do”.

Start with a Clear Unplugged Ceremony Sign

The first step is having a sign that lets guests know your ceremony is unplugged. There are so many beautiful options out there, and it is a great visual reminder as people arrive.

That said, some guests will not read the sign. Even if it is stunning. I have seen it happen many times!

Have the Officiant Make an Announcement

This is the most important part!!! In addition to the sign, have your officiant make an announcement before the ceremony begins. This is the perfect moment to remind guests to silence their phones and put them away.

That announcement time can also be used to share other helpful details, like letting family know they will be needed for photos after the ceremony. Small details like this make the day run more smoothly.

Try the 30 Second Phone Photo Trend

If you know your crowd loves photos and will struggle to stay unplugged, there is a trend I absolutely love. Once you and your partner are hand in hand at the ceremony, the officiant invites everyone to take out their phone. Guests get about 30 seconds to take a photo. Then the officiant asks everyone to turn their phones off or put them on do not disturb for the rest of the ceremony.

It works surprisingly well!!! Just make sure the officiant clearly emphasizes turning the phone off or using do not disturb. I have had phones go off during ceremonies before, and it is never a huge deal, but it is always better to avoid it if possible.

Use Humor If It Fits Your Crowd

Some officiants use humor to really get the point across. I heard a great example on The Vendor Table podcast where the officiant joked about the unplugged ceremony, then followed it up by getting very serious and saying something along the lines of, “Seriously. If the bride sees you with your phone out during the ceremony, she will find you and she will shame you.”

That approach definitely is not for everyone, but if it fits your personalities and your guest list, it can be effective and memorable. You know your people best. haha.

Make It an Unplugged Wedding Experience

You can also lean all the way in and make it an unplugged wedding, not just an unplugged ceremony!!! Consider adding polaroid cameras or disposable cameras during cocktail hour and the reception. Cute signs like “ditch the phone and capture memories the fun way” encourage guests to stay present while still having fun documenting the day.

Reassure Guests They Will Get the Photos

One last tip that makes a huge difference. Let your guests know they will still get amazing photos!!! As a wedding photographer, I make sure my couples can share their full gallery with their guests. Anyone with the private link can download high resolution images with no watermarks.

When guests know they will not miss a moment, they are much more willing to stay unplugged during the ceremony. You can include this info on your unplugged ceremony sign, have the officiant mention it, or both. Just be sure to check with your photographer first to confirm how gallery sharing works!

Unplugged wedding ceremonies create a more meaningful experience for you and your guests. Fewer distractions, more presence, and cleaner photos. It is truly a win all around!!!

For more wedding tips, check out the following blogs: 10 DIY Wedding Decor Ideas that Look Elevated, How to Get Beautiful Wedding Photos in the Rain, or Groom’s Guide to a Smooth Wedding Day Experience. You can also listen to more tips in podcast form by visiting The Busy Bride on Spotify!