Tangled Web
Wedding social media dos and don'ts
Whether the idea of an "unplugged wedding" remains a foreign concept or not, it behooves even the most "plugged-in" bride to take heed of a few new rules for nuptial etiquette. Wedding protocol has spanned far beyond time-honored convention with social media's ubiquitous presence. So before you tweet or update, take note of these suggestions to avoid a minor (or major!) faux pas. And keep in mind that, while a phone/tablet-free wedding may seem like a ridiculous request for guests, it's surprisingly (and utterly) relaxing for all parties (including yourself) to have an evening sans internet. Now, the basics…
Telephone before tweets. When it comes to spreading the engagement news, {don't} hold the phone! Be sure you contact all of your nearest and dearest to give them the good news first. Close friends and family members will be more than offended if they see a flurry of ring photos on Facebook prior to hearing the news personally. If you can't contain your excitement, knock out the phone calls and emails quickly. This is non-negotiable.
Shout out to vendors. After a successful meeting with your planner or caterer, tag them in a complimentary status update. It's an added way of giving them thanks for their assistance, and, ipso facto, gives them additional positive reviews for future clients. By the same token, save the rants for girls night. Even if you're not tagging the vendor who's stressing you out, chances are, they'll discover the negative comments one way or another. Just don't do it.
Photo shoot. Posting pics of your new left-hand bling is both acceptable and expected. If solely to avoid having to text the same photo countless times, posting a few ring pictures on Facebook and Twitter is an easy breezy way to show everyone the rock. Just be sure not to discuss carat size or pricing.
Practice discretion. I can assure you it won't increase your level of enjoyment for an evening simply by posting an update about the event. Whether its a shower, dress shopping excursion or bachelorette party, if you know a social media follower will be offended for a non-invite, be considerate and keep the tweets to a minimum.
Be professional. When contacting vendors, should they be delayed in returning an email or call, don't resort to tweeting at them or writing on their Facebook walls. It's entirely inappropriate. When it comes to all planning-related matters, should you resort to using a social media outlet, send a private message.
Set ground rules. Should you not wish for guests to give congratulations via social media prior to a certain day or time, simply (and sternly) tell them. When you give guests no instruction, you leave the door open for free posts and pictures. The more control you wish to have, the more instructions you must give.
There are no rules. When it comes to updating your relationship status and/or last name, you need not listen to anyone else's opinion. Should you wish to do so at the alter (it seriously happens sometimes) or months down the road, the decision is solely up to you. You have your marriage license, you've taken a vow, and at the end of the day, it's just Facebook.
