So, you've decided to open your wedding day up and allow guests to remain "plugged in" (Yes, there are those who are demanding their wedding day remains a private affair and are requesting that all guests put their phones down ), but have you considered creating your very own wedding #hashtag for the celebration?
A massive trend in over the last few years, having a personalised hashtag opens up a world of opportunity for the bride and groom. From having a ready-made photo album to allowing your guests to follow and be part of every step of your wedding planning and day, they are cute, fun and we are loving them! But, if you find yourself sitting on the wall with this trend we have 5 super reasons to get on board and create your very own, original, #hashtag!
1. It gets guests involved
Use your hashtag from the get-go and allow guests to follow your journey all the way from planning the big day to walking up the aisle and becoming MR & MRS. Whether you choose something witty or go for an old #mr&mrs(insert surname here) option make sure that it firstly, is easy to remember, and secondly, is unique. You won't want your pictures mixed in with others using the same hashtag, especially if those others are not the most savoury, you never know what you will find on the internet; remember that folks, so google, google and google again. Once you have created the perfect and most unique hashtag you can, incorporate it into your “Save The Date” announcements, wedding invitations and/or wedding website. Encourage invitees to start using it and spread the joy and excitement! #toomuchfun
2. Track your pictures with your hashtag
You've created a buzz about your big day and there is now more talk about your wedding than there was about #garthgate, but in a good way, in a very good way. You are certain that your friends and family will be Tweeting, Instagramming and Facebooking left, right and centre and, provided they use your chosen hashtag (make it simple and have reminders all over your reception), then all your lovely messages of congratulations and support, as well as numerous pictures from the day, will be nicely organised and instantly accessible. Sure, you have a professional photographer, but nothing is as heartwarming as the carefree expressions of your friends and family after 10 of their favourite tipple. #selfies #crowdsource
3. Modern-day guestbook
Really a follow-on from the above point, but a personalised hashtag can be used as a modern-day guestbook. Encourage guests to tweet, Instagram and Facebook their messages of support. It is just an idea, but perhaps encourage one social channel for this, and relax as the messages of jubilation flood in!
4. Show off your married name
Dying to get using your married name? Make it part of your wedding hashtag and start using it straight away! Sure, there are those that deem changing your name to be a little archaic, but there are plenty of independent, strong women out there doing it for themselves while still rocking their husband's surname!
5. Great way to get your guests talking
"Do you know what the hashtag is?" "Do you have the hashtag handy?" "Do you know who that hottie is?"...Yes, the possibilities are endless. Get people talking. Get hashtagging.
5 and a half...an opportunity for some cute signage
We love signage. No, we really LOVE signage. And in our opinion, any reason for some more signage is a good reason for celebration. Inform your guests of your #hashtag and remind them throughout the reception with various forms of incredible cute signage. Lacking inspiration? Check out our awesome guide to the perfect wedding signage.
- Danielle Farrell
Image credit: Weddbook