Weddings in 2021: Social Distancing, Video Messages, and Zoom Calls
A lot changed 2020 - where we can travel, the way we work, access to toilet rolls - and weddings. Although we hoped that by 2021 we would be back to normality, we are still battling with a pandemic, and so our weddings still look very different.
Weddings are traditionally a larger than life event, where you bring together your friends and family to celebrate your love and witness you entering a new phase of your life. However, with restrictions on the number of people that you can have, and border closures, your wedding can look very different to what you had planned.
Thankfully for those of us in Perth, the rules around weddings are a lot more relaxed than in other states, meaning that we can still have large weddings, so long as we adhere to the 2 square metre per person requirement.
However, we still have one issue - guests interstates and overseas. If you have family or guests who cannot make it, this can cause a lot of emotion and heartbreak for you, on what is meant to be the best day of your life. Especially if those people who can’t make it are close family members or friends, ones who you can’t imagine not being there.
They can still take part in your big day. Technology is bringing us closer than ever, and while it isn't the same as having them there in person, it still helps. So, you have two options: Zoom, or, pre-recorded Video Message.
For both of these options, you need two things:
Preparation
An AV system
Let’s have a look at the best option for your wedding, and how you can make this happen.
Wedding Video Message Montage
When you have friends and family all over the world, it can be extremely difficult to get them on the call together. Factor in audio issues on their end, camera malfunctions, and embarrassing moments when they don’t realise that they are on screen, and this could spell disaster for your wedding. Instead, you can gather messages a few weeks or months in advance, and play these at your reception (or have a member of the bridal party organise this for you to keep it a surprise!)
When should you play this message?
At the drinks reception: Picture this - you’ve just said your vows, you are officially a married couple, and you’re now ready to celebrate. Whilst having some drinks with your nearest and dearest you take the time to receive some video messages congratulating you on your happiness.
During Speeches
You could treat the video message like a speech! This is a great time to share the messages, as all guests will be seated and paying attention. You already have the focus of the room, so it will be easy to share the video at this time, whilst sipping champagne, eating, and enjoying the moment.
The Evening Reception:
This is a little trickier, as you would have to interrupt the music to play the video. So if you plan on watching it later in the day, ensure that your DJ or MC makes an announcement of what you are going to show, and to ask for quiet so you can enjoy listening to the messages.
Covid Wedding Celebration Zoom Call
A great option when you only have a small number of guests who want to be involved and talk to you on your wedding day.
First, you need to set up a Zoom account and make sure that the other people involved tdo the same. Luckily, it’s a straightforward and free process.
When you are using Zoom, your family can congratulate you in real time, and feel that they are really a part of the ceremony. Expect some tears, as this will be emotional!
How Do You Play Video or Zoom At A Wedding?
Now, this is where a lot of these plans fail. Many people spend a long time gathering videos for the wedding congratulation montage, or organising a Zoom call, but then fall short with the technical details, and all of that effort goes to waste.
This is extremely disappointing for the couple, as they don’t have the guests there in person, and then they can’t even speak to them or play their video.
Many people make the mistake of putting up a TV for the video messages, without considering any extra sound requirements. Of course, in your own home, the TV speakers are more than enough - however, with a room full of guests, they will hear next to nothing. If a video message comes through but you cannot hear it, did it really come through at all?
So, you need a TV or Projector to play the visuals, and a DJ to play the sound.
The same goes for Zoom. You can connect your phone or tablet to the TV or Projector, but you won’t be able to hear what they are saying if you don’t have the correct audio equipment. So, when you hire a DJ, let them know that this is what you want to do.
Perth Wedding DJ - Here to Help You
At Majestic Wedding DJS, we want to give you the best wedding experience possible. Our experience spans many different event spaces and wedding venues in Perth, and we will definitely have a package to suit your special day. We know how difficult it is to have a wedding this year, and so let us help you to bring your loved ones to your celebration, no matter where they are in the world.