If there’s a single phenomenon that can define the last few decades, it’s technology. It has changed the way people live. No matter your age, gender, or race, technology has likely impacted your life one way or another. It has become such a wide-reaching change that it’s even affected one of the oldest institutions in the history of the world — weddings.
Weddings have evolved from simple ceremonies uniting two people into big, elaborate events. In fact, figures show that the wedding industry is worth a staggering $72 billion worldwide. It’s become such a massive affair in and of itself that there are dozens of TV shows and movies about it.
Here’s how technological advancements have changed nuptial ceremonies over the recent years:
1. Virtual Guests
Initially, there were only a few types of people at a reception. First are the members of the wedding party. Then, there are the band, planner, wedding bartender and other staff members. Finally, there are the guests. Depending on the size of the party, the average is 167 people.
Thanks to the internet, the number of guests can be as high as what your video chat app subscription allows. No matter how early the invitations were sent out, no-shows are inevitable. There could be an emergency in their family or work. Or, they were unable to travel in time for the event. Now, technology has made it possible to at least reduce non-attendees. Friends and relatives from different parts of the worlds can attend a wedding with a Skype call or a live stream. It’s become even more apt over the past few months because of travel restrictions. It may not feel the same way when you attend in person but it’s still a nice way to show support for your loved ones.
2. Wedding Film
Before the invention of digital cameras and accessible video editing software, couples had to wait months to see their wedding film. Now, it’s possible to view it on the day of the wedding, even at the reception. Hence, the name “same-day edit”. It started to become mainstream a few years ago but it has gotten popular over the years. Basically, it’s a video taken before and during the wedding. It includes footage of the bridesmaids and groomsmen helping the bride and groom get ready, the vows, the exchange of rings, the kiss, and other defining events. The video is typically played in front of the couple and the guests during the party.
The great thing about it is the quality isn’t compromised despite the quick delivery. Wedding videographers use state-of-the-art cameras so that every frame is in high resolution. Some even use drones to make sure that every angle is captured.
3. Social Media Effect
It’s virtually impossible to speak about the impact of the internet without talking about social media. In today’s day and age, almost everyone has an account on a social networking site. In fact, data from the Pew Research Center shows that a whopping 69% of American adults use social media. Naturally, this has an effect on weddings, an event that is already burdened with expectations. Experts believe that sites like Instagram and Pinterest are the reasons why the cost of weddings have increased. For some, they copy trends set by celebrities and influencers which are often not cheap. For other couples, they feel the pressure of having a flawless wedding.
Even before the popularity of 4K cameras and social media sites, there were already heavy expectations about weddings. It’s supposed to be the best and most unforgettable day in the couple’s life. It’s a lot of pressure for a single day to live up to. But technology is supposed to make people’s lives easier, not harder. It’s best to focus on what really matters instead of impressions on the internet.
