Philly Wedding Receptions: Here’s The Truth About Unplugged Weddings
Philly wedding receptions: to post or not to post? That’s the question many engaged couples are asking as they plan their wedding. Whether you dream of a sea of phones capturing every angle, or a quiet, tech-free moment shared with loved ones, here’s what to consider when choosing between an unplugged or plugged-in wedding. We reached out to Aimee Farrell at Brandywine Manor House for her expert insight.
Photo credit: Brandywine Manor House/Morby Photography
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Guest Photography
Weddings today are just as much about the experience as they are about the memories captured. Both unplugged and plugged-in weddings offer their own unique benefits and challenges. Let’s break them down to help you decide which approach best matches your vision.
Unplugged: Encourage Presence Over Posts
Asking guests to put their phones away means they can fully experience the emotion and magic of your day. When the bride walks down the aisle, no one is distracted by getting the perfect shot. They’re simply there, watching, feeling, and maybe even tearing up. No one is fumbling with their purse for a phone or raising a tablet in the air during your vows.
Plugged In: More Candid Moments to Relive Later
On the flip side, there’s real value in guest photography. You’ll likely return to your hotel or honeymoon suite and be eager to scroll through Instagram and Facebook. Many couples provide a custom wedding hashtag so friends can easily upload and share special moments. For example, one couple received over 100 guest photos within hours using their hashtag—a priceless gift.
Unplugged: Protect the Magic of the First Look
One risk of a plugged-in approach is unintentionally spoiling key emotional moments. Bridesmaids or guests might post a photo of the bride before the groom has seen her, undermining that once-in-a-lifetime first look. Unplugged couples avoid this entirely by restricting pre-ceremony photos to just the professional team.
Plugged In: Let Absent Guests Feel Included
If you have loved ones who can’t attend, encouraging guest photography can be a heartfelt gesture. Through shared photos and videos, those not present can still witness the joy, the décor, the love and feel like they were part of your big day.
Unplugged: Give Your Photographer a Clear View
Your professional photographer will thank you. Without phones blocking the aisle, raising distractions, or interfering with lighting, they can capture clean, unobstructed photos. Some guests get so caught up in snapping pictures, they forget someone was hired to do just that—with far better equipment and a trained eye.
Plugged In: Get Candid Photos from Every Angle
Guest photos can also capture what your pros might miss. A silly moment at cocktail hour, a heartfelt hug, or a dance-floor surprise. These are the spontaneous slices of joy that often surface through a guest’s lens. The more photos you receive, the more complete your wedding story becomes.
Finding a Happy Medium
Can’t decide? Many couples ask guests to stay unplugged during the ceremony, then encourage them to take and share photos throughout the reception. That way, you protect your most sacred moments while still collecting a library of memories from those who matter most.
Happily Ever After—No Matter What
Finally, at the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong choice. Just the one that’s right for you. Whether your guests stay in the moment or capture every second, you’ll still walk away married and surrounded by love. And that’s what truly matters.
