Destination Weddings: Share the Experience with Loved Ones at Home
Friends and family are becoming increasingly annoyed with newly engaged couples, but why? The answer is this: The growing popularity of destination weddings. More than 20 percent of couples are now choosing to say “I do” on brightly-lit beaches, at the side of mountain creeks, and in countries far from home.
It’s important to remember that everyone wishes you the best on your big day, but not everyone can afford to witness it. Here are five great ways to share the experience with those who can’t be with you on the most romantic day of your life.
1.Internet Broadcast
Many of the bigger destinations are offering Internet feeds as part of their wedding packages. You simply purchase the package, include the website URL in your invitations, and anyone who chooses to do so can watch you get married from the comfort of their own home. This is a great alternative to those who don’t want to miss your wedding but can’t afford to attend.
2.Wedding Websites
There are dozens of websites that allow you to stream your wedding live to anyone who wishes to watch. Much like Internet broadcasts offered by destinations, these companies allow you to film your wedding and broadcast it across a secure channel. You can stream your wedding live on the Internet, and anyone, anywhere can watch and feel like they are there.
3.DVDs and Flashdrives
Hire someone with a steady hand to record your wedding. Send the video to a company that offers DVD and Flashdrive duplication, have the video duplicated, and send a copy to each friend and family member that couldn’t be in attendance. If you’re feeling like sharing even more, add some photos from your wedding day and a personal message to your friends and family.
4.Parties at Home
No matter how tactful you are, some friends and family members are going to be hurt that you chose to get married so far away. Why not sooth hurt feelings by having a reception at home? Your friends and family can celebrate with you in a huge way or a small way; the choice is yours. If you and your spouse are from different areas of the country or different countries altogether, consider having two parties. Play a video of your wedding day at each reception for your guests to enjoy.
5.YouTube
If you’re more of a do-it-yourself kind of couple, have someone film your video or create a slideshow for you. Set the show to music, and upload it to a private channel on YouTube. Share the URL with friends and family. Anyone that you give the URL to can sign in to your page to watch your video. The great thing about YouTube is that you are not forced to take down your video, nor are you only permitted to allow access for a certain period of time. Your channel is yours, and your videos can remain accessible for as long as you like.
There are several ways that you can give everyone you love the chance to share your wedding day. If you and your future spouse are set on a destination wedding, expect to hear grumblings among friends and family. Be quick to point out that you are considering ways that everyone can attend, even if it’s not in person.
Writer Ken Osteen blogs for tech sites. Check out his recent piece on more ways to make use of the custom micro-USB flash drive.