Many of today’s weddings unfold in real time on Instagram, offering a sneak peek for those not on the elusive guest list. Within minutes, photos of your ceremony, your dress, and even your first dance can appear on social feeds. Many couples love the hype and celebration of their wedding being shared with the world but if that doesn’t sound like you then you have come to the right place to find out how to ask wedding guests not to post on social media.
Many couples opt for an “unplugged” weddings or politely asking guests not to post photos online. It’s not about secrecy, it’s about presence, privacy, and letting your photographer’s beautiful work shine first.
Here’s how to communicate your wishes clearly and kindly, without dampening anyone’s excitement.
Why You Might Want a Social Media–Free Wedding
In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s almost instinctive for guests to post photos as soon as they’re taken. But for many couples, there’s real value in keeping wedding moments private, at least until you’ve shared your own favorite photos first.
Here’s why many couples choose an unplugged wedding or a social media–free policy:
- Privacy: You want control over what’s shared and when.
- Professional Presentation: Let your photographer’s images set the tone before phone pics flood social feeds.
- Presence: Guests focus on celebrating instead of snapping.
- Surprise: You can unveil your photos on your own timeline.
Whatever your reason, there are tactful ways to share your wishes that guests will appreciate.
When to Tell Guests About Your No-Posting Policy
It’s best to communicate your wishes early and reinforce them gently throughout the day. A single mention might go unnoticed, but a few thoughtful reminders will help everyone stay on the same page.
Here’s how to weave the message naturally into your wedding experience:
1. Mention It on Your Wedding Website
Your website is the perfect place to set expectations before the big day. Write a short, friendly note explaining your choice.
“We’re keeping our ceremony unplugged so everyone can be fully present with us. Don’t worry, once the professional photos are ready, we’ll share them all!”
2. Include a Sign at the Ceremony
A stylish, well-worded sign near the entrance or seating area can gently remind guests to keep phones away.
“Welcome to our unplugged ceremony! Please put your phones and cameras away until after the ceremony, we can’t wait to share the photos with you soon!”
Choose a sign that matches your décor and guests will see it as part of your theme, not a rule.
3. Have Your Officiant Make a Quick Announcement
Even with signage, guests may forget. Ask your officiant (or DJ) to make a brief, friendly reminder before the ceremony begins.
“The couple invites you to be fully present, please keep your phones tucked away and enjoy this special moment with them.”
4. Add It to Your Program or Place Cards
Printed reminders are subtle but effective. A small line in your ceremony program or a note on the dinner table is enough to keep the message consistent.
“We’re keeping things unplugged today so we can all soak up every second together. Thank you for understanding!”
5. Give Guests a Photo-Sharing Outlet
If you’re asking guests not to post publicly, it’s smart to give them another way to share their favorite shots.
Try Wedding Photo Swap
Instead of uploading to Instagram or Facebook, invite your guests to upload their photos to Wedding Photo Swap, our very own private photo-sharing app that keeps everything in one secure, easy-to-access place.
- Create a private gallery for your event
- Share a QR code or custom link
- Collect all candid moments instantly, without the social media noise
It’s the perfect compromise: guests still get to share their memories, and you maintain control over what’s seen online.
How to Ask Guests Not to Post Wedding Photos (Wording Examples
The tone you use matters just as much as the message itself. Here are some ways to phrase your request, depending on your style and setting:
Formal:
“To keep our ceremony intimate, we ask that you refrain from taking or posting photos until after we’ve shared our professional images.”
Friendly:
“We’d love for you to be fully in the moment with us—so please tuck your phones away until the party’s over!”
Playful:
“Phones down, hearts open! Our photographer’s got the magic covered—we’ll share soon!”
FAQs About Asking Guests Not to Post Wedding Photos
Why do couples choose unplugged weddings?
Couples often prefer unplugged weddings so guests can enjoy the moment, avoid distractions, and allow the couple to share their professional photos first.
Can guests take photos but not post them?
Yes! You can absolutely allow guests to take pictures for personal memories while asking them not to upload or tag anything online.
How can we phrase our request politely?
Use positive, inclusive language. Focus on the why, like wanting everyone to be present, rather than simply saying “no phones.”
What if someone posts anyway?
It happens! Most people post out of excitement. You can politely ask them to take it down, or simply focus on the joy of your day.
Your wedding day is one of the most personal celebrations of your life, so it’s perfectly okay to decide how it’s shared. By communicating early, offering friendly reminders, and giving guests a fun, private way to share photos, you’ll strike the perfect balance between privacy and participation.
