The coronavirus pandemic has altered lifestyle. With social distancing becoming the norm, any avenue for large gatherings has been abolished. Many intending couples have had to cancel their wedding plans because of this present situation. However, some other couple have been resilient and gone ahead to hold their weddings via online apps such as Zoom, Google Hangout, Facebook live, YouTube Live, Instagram Live etc
If you plan to get married this period, you can continue with your plans and preparations. Take note of the following for a success virtual wedding:
1. Send Online Invitation cards
You send e-cards using sites like Greenvelope or Paperless Post to create customised digital invites or via email or social media. Use attractive designs to excite your guests. Ensure you let your guests know what to expect. Also, include important information like the date, time, Zoom link(depending on the platform you are using ), RSVP details and dress code. Keep them updated with with the activities of the online wedding e.g whether they would do a champagne toast at the end of the ceremony? Should they have a specific Zoom background for photoshoot? Would you want them to join in a celebratory meal together?
2. Select the online platform
There are several video conferencing platforms to run an online wedding but Zoom seems preferable. You can have up to 100 attendees in a 40 minutes session. This can be adjusted based on the Zoom plan selected. It is advisable to keep your attendance to the barest minimum. Ensure that you send the wedding (meeting) link to all key stakeholders such as the officiating ministers, family and other witnesses.
3. Select your wedding dress
Go for a wedding dress with a splash of colours to symbolize happiness and celebration. Wear a comfortable yet stylish wedding dress that accentuates your figure.
4. Get Make-up and hairdo inspiration
Prior to the wedding day, try to learn how to do your makeup and hair do that would fit you perfectly. You can get some inspiration from YouTube tutorials. Ensure you practise before the D-day so that you don’t flop. The rule is to keep your makeup and hairdo simple yet stylish.
5. Set up your venue decoration
It is most likely you would be using your living room. Try making it or wherever you choose beautiful with nice decoration and interior designing. If you have a garden, create your own bridal bouquet and bound together with ribbons.
6. Create your music playlist
A wedding is incomplete without the compilation of an amazing playlist. You can collaborate with your guests and enjoy the playlists together using apps such as Spotify
7. Capture all the moments/memories
Even though you had to change your wedding plans, capture memories of the D-day into your wedding album. It would be good to relive the experience. Ensure you use a device that can screen record all views even from the guests’ perspectives. Invest in tripods and set up cameras or phones to get the best views. It is also a good time to put your videography skills to use after which you may send to your wedding photographer for the professional touch.
8. Cut the cake
Whether small or big, you have to get a wedding cake. You can bake one by yourself with the help of YouTube videos or just order from your baker. Remember, one of the highlights of any wedding is the cake, make it count too.
Lastly, relax and enjoy the moment with the love of your life!
This is precursor to the new Pride Magazine Nigeria column which debuts Saturday, June 6th, 2020