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Many of the couples who have had to postpone or reschedule their wedding celebrations are choosing to say I do sooner rather than later, swapping vows virtually as friends and family members watch from the comfort of their own homes. While this might not be the way you envisioned becoming husband and wife, there are a few positives to this type of wedding. Namely, you can save money, time and stress by skipping some of the traditional items and activities that you simply don’t need when you virtually wed.
1. Favors
Since your guests will not be physically present with you, there is no need to provide a wedding favor to send them off with, says Kourtney Perry of 7 Centerpieces. "Typically guests never remember or appreciate wedding favors, so they are a great item to exclude from your to-do list."
2. Wedding Cake
"Unless it is a tradition you really love, skip the cake," says Kaleigh Northrup of Kay Northrup Events. "Your virtual guests don’t need to watch you cut a dessert they can’t eat!"
3. Designer Shoes
Most virtual ceremonies will zoom in closer to the couple's face, typically from the waist up, so don't waste your funds on high-priced shoes, says Keith Willard of Keith Willard Events.
4. Expensive Decor
Don't waste your money on lavish floral arrangements and decorations, suggests Lynne Goldberg of Ms. Wedding Planner. Instead, replace those things with a simple archway and/or backdrop, a wedding bouquet, and a boutonniere.
5. Printed Invites
If you and your partner are planning to truly go virtual, it’s not necessary to spend funds on mailed invitations, notes Kylie Carlson of The Wedding Academy. "Instead, consider opting for an e-invite that’s both elegant and chic, making it easier for guests to RSVP and access the meeting room link on the platform of your choosing."
6. Wedding Website
A wedding website is great for in-person weddings because it provides guests with all the details of the wedding day or wedding weekend, says Kim Hefner of Wild and Found Photography. But with a virtual wedding, information can be included in a simple invite via mail or email.
7. Ceremony Programs
There are a lot of things that would normally be incorporated in a traditional wedding that can be eliminated during a virtual wedding, such as a ceremony program, says Rosy Nuboer, Romance Planning Manager of Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino.
8. Tradtional Entertainment
Kevin Dennis of Fantasy Sound Event Services explains that entertainment is officially out the door for virtual weddings. In addition, save your money on a videographer since many platforms like Zoom have recording options as-is.
9. Formal Attire
"Now is the time for the perfect little white dress for the virtual wedding. You can save your wedding dress to wear on your postponed date," says Faith Folayan of This Love Weddings.