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In today's technology-obsessed culture, stealing several hours of gadget-free time should be a gift to your wedding guests, but prying Instagram-obsessed friends away from their devices may pose a #problem for some. There is no shame in wishing for a phone-free wedding, but how can a bride enforce a no cell phone policy without taking the fun out of the affair? Our etiquette experts weigh in on the best manner of taking modern technology out of the picture at your wedding.
While many of your attendees simply enjoy texting or tweeting, a handful of guests may need their phones on hand to attend to urgent business matters or in case of a family emergency. Bearing this dependence in mind, try to create an atmosphere that rewards face-to-face interaction and playfully discourages tech usage. Consider asking your ceremony emcee, minister, or DJ to kindly explain the rule, or add a line in your program which gently encourages guests to abandon their devices for the duration of your ceremony.
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If you prefer a more hands-on method of separating your guests from their phones, try providing a cell phone storage station or baskets where attendees can individually tag and stow their devices safely, labeling the space with a quirky sign stating, "Hold The Phone!" or "Call It A Day!". Above all, make sure your guests don't feel compelled to fork over their phones if the device is truly necessary, and refrain from jumping into punishment mode if a guest or two sneak a selfie or two.