Social media has become a normal part of our daily lives, and it's no surprise that it has made its way into the world of weddings. From sharing engagement photos to creating custom wedding hashtags, social media provides a fun and easy way to involve your guests in the wedding experience. Let's chat about how to use social media before AND during your wedding, and how to get your guests involved in the fun!

Before the Wedding

1. Create a Wedding Website

One of the most effective ways to use social media before your wedding is by creating a wedding website. Not only does a wedding website provide a central hub for all your wedding details, but it also allows you to share your wedding hashtag and encourage guests to post photos and updates on social media. Many of our couples use Zola (it's free!). You can include instructions on how to find your website on your "save the dates" or on your wedding invitations.

2. Create a Custom Hashtag

Creating a custom wedding hashtag is an excellent way to get your guests involved on social media. A wedding hashtag is a unique identifier that allows you and your guests to easily find and share photos from the big day. Be sure to include your hashtag on your wedding website, invitations, and any signage at the wedding. If you choose to have a guest book, make sure to include a little sign with your hashtag. We've even had couples put reminders in the restrooms (because we all have friends who love to take bathroom mirror selfies).

3. Share Sneak Peeks

In the weeks leading up to your wedding, share sneak peeks of your wedding preparations on social media! This could include photos of the tiny details of the dress(s), the color of the suits, DIY decor projects, or shots of the wedding venue. Sharing these updates will build excitement and anticipation for the big day. "Behind the scenes" images of decor prep is also fun! Don't forget to use your wedding hashtag on these.

During the Wedding

1. Use Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories are a great way to share real-time updates from your wedding day. You can share short videos and photos of behind-the-scenes moments, your first dance, or other special moments from the day. Encourage your guests to share their own stories using your wedding hashtag.

2. Create a Snapchat Geofilter

Snapchat geofilters are custom graphics that can be added to photos and videos taken within a specific location. Creating a custom geofilter for your wedding is a fun and unique way to get your guests involved on social media. Your guests will love using the filter to capture their favorite moments from the day!

Getting Your Guests Involved

1. Encourage Social Sharing

Encourage your guests to share their photos and updates on social media by including your wedding hashtag on your wedding website, invitations, and any signage at the wedding. You can even provide a sign or card at each table reminding guests to use the hashtag when posting.

2. Offer a Social Media Contest

Offering a social media contest is a fun and creative way to get your guests involved on social media. You could offer a prize for the best photo, the best post, or the best selfie using your hashtag, or for the most creative use of the hashtag.

3. Create a Wedding Photo Scavenger Hunt

This is a fun way to get guests to interact with each other! You can include a printable checklist either in the reception space or at your ceremony location (templates can be purchased on Etsy). This will give guests something to do while they wait for the fun to begin! Some checklist suggestions: "dancing feet", "a candid of the bride", "something old with something new", "group shot of your table", etc. And don't forget to include your wedding hashtag on the checklist!

4. Provide a Charging Station

With all the social media posting and sharing, your guests' phone batteries may run low. Providing a charging station at the wedding is a thoughtful gesture that will encourage your guests to keep sharing their photos and updates throughout the night.

Final Thoughts

Social media provides a fun and easy way to involve your guests in the wedding experience. From creating a custom wedding hashtag to using Instagram Stories, there are plenty of clever ways to use social media before and during your wedding. By encouraging your guests to share their photos and updates on social media, you'll create a virtual community that celebrates your special day with you.