There’s something sacred about the moment you exchange vows. It’s emotional, intimate, and for many couples, worth protecting from a sea of smartphones. That’s why the unplugged ceremony has become so popular over the years. More and more couples are choosing to go phone-free during their ceremony to preserve the atmosphere, the emotion, and the view.
In a world where we’re always connected, inviting guests to be present, really present, has never felt more meaningful. And while the idea of an unplugged ceremony is gaining traction, the execution matters. From how you announce it to how you capture the moment, every detail should feel thoughtful and aligned with your wedding vision. Luckily, planning with intention makes all the difference.
But first, hi! We’re Lace and Bow Bridal, a full-service wedding planning and design studio based in Albuquerque. We help couples craft deeply personal celebrations with intention and style, and yes, we’ve helped plan more than a few beautiful unplugged ceremonies. In this post, we’re sharing our best tips and ideas for going phone-free with grace. Learn more about our planning services, browse our portfolio, or contact us to get started!
Photo Credit: Adrift A Dream Photography
Why Unplugged Ceremonies are Trending
In recent years, more couples have opted for unplugged ceremonies. This trend is not just about keeping phones out of the aisle. It’s about protecting the atmosphere of one of the most emotional parts of the day. With fewer distractions, guests are able to fully engage in the moment, and photographers can capture it all without a sea of glowing screens.
Here’s why unplugged ceremonies are gaining traction:
- It keeps the focus on your vows. When guests aren’t holding up phones, they’re actually watching and listening.
- It protects your professional photos. No one wants a phone blocking the first kiss.
- It sets a clear tone. A phone-free ceremony signals that this is a moment to be present.
- It reduces noise and interruptions. No unexpected ringtones or camera clicks to disrupt the mood.
- It helps guests relax. Without the pressure to get “the shot,” guests can just enjoy the moment.
Unplugged ceremonies reflect a growing desire for weddings that are more intentional, more connected, and more meaningful from the very first moment.
Looking for more ways to make your unplugged ceremony feel personal and intentional? Don’t miss our favorite Unconventional Wedding Ideas for Couples Who Dare to Be Different.
Benefits of Phone-Free Vows
Choosing an unplugged ceremony isn’t just about the aesthetics, it’s about creating space for connection, emotion, and intentionality. When your guests are truly present, the experience becomes more immersive for everyone involved.
Here are the top benefits of keeping phones tucked away during your vows:
- You get to see faces, not phones
When you walk down the aisle, you’ll be met with eye contact and smiles, not smartphone flashes. It changes the whole energy of the moment. - You and your partner stay grounded
Without flashes and clicks in your periphery, you can stay focused on each other and fully soak in the emotion of your vows. - Your guests will remember how it felt, not just how it looked
When people are truly present, they leave with memories of connection, not just an overload of pictures. - You set the tone for the rest of your celebration
Starting your wedding with intention signals that this day is about connection, not content. That mindset carries through every part of the experience.
An unplugged ceremony invites your guests to be part of something real, which is exactly how meaningful memories are made.
Want more ways to design an immersive guest experience? Check out our post on Designing a Wedding Guest Experience for ideas that leave a lasting impression.
Photo Credit: Adrift A Dream Photography
Signage, Announcements & Inclusive Wording
Communicating your unplugged ceremony starts well before your vows. With the right tone and timing, you can set clear expectations while still keeping things warm and welcoming.
Signage That Sets the Tone
A sign near your ceremony entrance is the simplest way to let guests know your ceremony is phone-free.
- Match your sign to your wedding aesthetic
- Keep the message short, clear, and kind
- Place it where everyone will see it
Announcements from the Heart
A short message from your officiant just before the ceremony reinforces the request in a personal way.
- Ask your officiant to invite guests to be present
- Keep it under 30 seconds
- Use friendly, relaxed wording
Inclusive, Kind-Hearted Wording
Wording matters! Make the request feel like an invitation, not a command.
- Emphasize connection and shared experience
- Avoid strict language like “no phones allowed”
- Reassure guests the ceremony will be professionally captured
A thoughtful announcement is just one part of creating a guest-first experience.
Want more ways to welcome your loved ones with style and intention? Don’t miss our post on The Perfect Wedding Welcome Bags for ideas that delight from the very first moment.
Photo Credit: Adrift A Dream Photography
Photographer & Guest Coordination Tips
Even with an unplugged ceremony, a little extra communication goes a long way, especially when it comes to your photographer and your guests.
Here’s how to keep things running smoothly:
- Loop in your photographer early. Let them know you’re planning an unplugged ceremony so they can prepare accordingly.
- Share your vision with close family. Give your VIPs a heads-up so they don’t feel left out or tempted to sneak a few photos.
- Include a note on your website or invitation insert. That way, guests aren’t surprised by the request when they arrive.
- Let your planner help enforce the policy. We’re pros at gently reminding guests without making it awkward.
Of course, choosing a photographer who knows how to capture those unfiltered, emotional moments is key. Check out our roundup of the Best Photographers in Santa Fe for Your Wedding to find the perfect fit for your unplugged vows.
Enforcing Gracefully: Scripts & Examples
Announcing your unplugged ceremony doesn’t have to feel stiff or overly formal. In fact, the right wording can make your guests feel included rather than corrected. The key? Set the tone early, keep the message kind, and remind everyone why it matters.
Here are a few graceful scripts you can use:
A Note on Your Wedding Website
“We kindly ask that you join us in an unplugged ceremony. Please, no phones or cameras. We want everyone to be fully present as we exchange vows, and our photographer will be capturing it all beautifully for you to enjoy later.”
Welcome & Kindly Reminder (via officiant or emcee):
“The couple kindly asks that you put away your phones and cameras during the ceremony. They’ve hired a professional photographer to capture every moment so you can be fully present. Let’s enjoy this together, device-free.”
Short & Sweet Unplugged Ceremony Sign Option:
“Welcome to our unplugged ceremony. Please turn off all devices and be fully present with us.”
Guest Program Wording:
“We’ve lovingly chosen to have an unplugged ceremony. We’re so happy you’re here! Please join us by being fully present as we exchange our vows.”
The tone can match your style, whether playful, sentimental, or traditional. What matters most is that your guests feel invited into the experience, not pushed out of it.
Photo Credit: Adrift A Dream Photography
Creative Ways to Capture & Share the Moment
Even with an unplugged ceremony, there are plenty of thoughtful ways to document and share your vows without sacrificing the moment’s intimacy.
Here are a few creative options:
- Hire a videographer
Capture the audio and visuals of your ceremony so you can relive it over and over again with friends and family.
- Create a photo reveal moment
Have your photographer prepare a preview gallery or slideshow to share at the the farewell brunch the next day.
- Add a message to your thank-you cards
Include a favorite photo or a link to your online gallery as a sweet post-wedding surprise.
A phone-free moment doesn’t mean forgotten, it means remembered with more heart.
Want to make your unplugged ceremony even more unforgettable? Browse our post on Creative Wedding Ceremony Aisle Decor for fresh ideas that wow your guests before you even say “I do.”
Photo Credit: Adrift A Dream Photography
Bringing Your Unplugged Ceremony to Life
Choosing an unplugged ceremony is about more than keeping phones out of the aisle. It’s about creating a meaningful, present moment that reflects your values. With the right signage, thoughtful communication, and a clear plan for capturing and sharing your vows, going phone-free can feel intentional and incredibly impactful.
At Lace and Bow Bridal, we believe your ceremony should feel just as personal and powerful as the celebration that follows. Whether you want help scripting announcements or designing a seamless guest experience from start to finish, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Planning a wedding in New Mexico? Learn more about our planning services, take a look at our portfolio, or contact us to get started!