Today’s younger couples who are planning their wedding have grown up with technology in their daily lives. From computers to smartphones, the ever-evolving web of technology has connected our lives and helped us communicate in ways we never could have imagined. Texting and social media hubs like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat allow constant updates on our daily lives…and the events that impact our lives.
Weddings embrace technology’s digital and virtual trends and more and more couples are incorporating amazing and e-centric tech touches that enhance and transform their ceremonies and reception. While film once snapped and preserved pictures from this once-in-a-lifetime event, now digital technology masterfully captures each moment.
Of course, digital photography is a tiny piece of the technological footprint that marks most of these monumental moments. Ready to host a wedding of the future? Check out these e-savvy ways to incorporate technology into tradition:
Flyover Drones
Dramatic drones may seem like something out of a futuristic movie, they are, in fact, one of the more popular trends in wedding photography. Drones allow photographers to capture amazing aerial shots of the wedding ceremony and the reception. However, not every photographer is proficient at maneuvering these tiny aircraft—and, yes, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, they are unmanned aircraft. Don’t make the mistake of buying a drone and letting a friend or relative fly this mobile camera. Drone operators must abide by FAA rules and regulations, so you need a skilled operator to ensure adherence to the guidelines and laws. Don’t hire an amateur for drones… or any other wedding detail that requires a professional.
3-D Printing
In the past, couples once only had the typical and traditional cake toppers to select for their cake’s top tier. Maybe you could find intertwining hearts, too, or a few fun figurines, but, for the most part, choices were not seriously expansive. Now…there’s 3-D printing! With 3-D printing, couples can create any figurine or detail for the top of their wedding cake. Yes, you can even have little mini versions of the two of you. Or whatever crazy idea you can imagine. However, you also may use 3-D printing to design custom wedding bands, personalized wedding favors…and even your wedding dress.
Image Mapping
Can’t afford to get married on the beach or in a tropical rainforest? No big deal! Instead, bring those images into your reception with image mapping. This new technology projects moving pictures on walls or even your wedding cake.
Livestream the Ceremony
Livestreaming isn’t necessarily new, but it is an amazing tech feature that allows you to bring your ceremony to out-of-town relatives and friends. There are numerous ways to livestream—you can go completely DIY or use a service. For couples who have friends and loved ones around the world, live streaming allows you to share your memories—and your special day—with everyone.
Hidden Cameras
Putting cameras in unexpected places will capture fantastic pictures. We’re talking about hiding cameras in the bridal bouquet to capture the walk down the aisle and the sweet moments of the vow exchange. Be careful, though, you don’t want to leave the camera on all day! And make sure the bride knows that the camera is in her bouquet!
Silent Disco
Want to keep the party going without all the noise? Try a silent disco. Guests wear headphones to hear the music, which keeps the noise down for other guests who might not wish to rave on through the night. The silent disco was even featured at Coachella.
Infuse technology into your big day to create—and preserve–unimaginable memories. From drones to silent discos, technology transforms wedding traditions with the infusion of futuristic finesse. If you’re feeling extra tech-savvy, you may even add in an LED garter to light the night as you rave on at your silent disco.
Written by: Naomi Shaw