Social Media Wedding Etiquette: The #Do’s and #Dont’s

We all love a good Instagram pic or fun Tweet, but does that mean you want your entire wedding documented on social media as it is happening? 

In their 8th annual “What’s On Brides’ Minds” survey, David’s Bridal asked newly engaged and married women about their opinion of the role social media should play at the wedding.  While brides want their guests to enjoy and capture their special day, many are taking cues from celebrities such as Beyonce and asking that certain details and photos be released on their terms.  

“It is hard to escape the presence of social media, and many brides use it to announce their engagement and as a key tool during the wedding planning process,” said Brian Beitler, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at David’s Bridal. “Our ‘What’s On Brides’ Minds survey found that while some weddings are shared by guests with hashtags created by the bride and groom, others are requesting that guests power down completely and simply enjoy the festivities without digital distractions.”

The study found that 44% of brides believe digital rules are important in setting the tone for their guests.  But only 14% of brides are taking cues from Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, who are rumored to be completely banning cell phones from their wedding - and asking that there be absolutely NO social media posting.

Here are some other big social media Do's and Dont's:

• Don’t Spoil the Surprise: 62% believe the bridesmaids should not post any photos of the bride in her wedding dress before the ceremony.

• Wait Your Turn: 58% believe the bride and groom should be the first to post a photo from the wedding.

•  Viral Video Stars: 32% are saying “I don’t” to any video content on YouTube, which means no chance of a viral video!

•  #BestWeddingEver: 26% want you to use their specially-created hashtag should you post anything about the wedding. 

•  Sharing is Caring: Only 22% think the bride and groom should be the only ones to post photos from the wedding. 

• Skype it if people can't make it: When it comes to Skype-ing or live streaming their nuptials, 36% of the brides surveyed thought it would be a nice touch and a way to include everyone, even if they can’t be there in person.Just be sure to focus on the bride and groom and not all the drunk wedding guests. 

• Update that profile: You don't want anyone thinking you aren't married for an extra second. A majority (56%) of brides will update their profile with their new name within a day of the wedding, and 10% will actually do it as the wedding is happening (I wonder if anyone has ever done it during the ceremony)!