Complete Guide to Planning Your Online Wedding

Planning an online wedding might seem daunting, but in 2025 virtual weddings have proven to be more than just a pandemic-era trend. Many couples now choose to tie the knot online because of the convenience, cost savings, and ability to include loved ones from anywhere in the world[1]. In fact, virtual weddings (often called Zoom weddings) are still very much a thing in 2025 and beyond[2]. With modern technology and a bit of creativity, a virtual ceremony can be just as meaningful and beautiful as a traditional in-person event. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know – from legal requirements to tech setup to personal touches – to create your perfect online wedding day.

Recent Trends: Online ceremonies continue to evolve with new ideas and tools. Hybrid weddings (combining a small in-person gathering with a live stream for remote guests) are becoming popular, allowing couples to celebrate with everyone without geographic limits[3]. Couples are also embracing interactive elements like digital guestbooks, creative virtual backgrounds, and live chats to make remote guests feel involved. Even after pandemic restrictions lifted, virtual weddings remain appealing for their intimacy and inclusivity: they’re often cheaper, more intimate, and let you invite everyone you love (without travel constraints or big venues)[4][1]. So, let’s dive into planning your online wedding step by step.

What Legal Requirements Do I Need for an Online Wedding?

Quick Answer: You need a valid marriage license from Utah (approved within 1-2 business days, sometimes same-day), government-issued ID for both partners, and a licensed officiant authorized to perform virtual ceremonies. Even non-U.S. citizens can use this route. You can complete everything in 2-3 days from anywhere in the world. See our complete FAQ on legal requirements →

One of the first considerations for an online wedding is making sure it’s legally valid. Laws can vary by state (and country), so it’s crucial to understand your local requirements or work with a service that handles the legal details. Here are the basics:

Marriage License

You will need to obtain a marriage license from the appropriate local authority (usually the county clerk or vital records office). In the U.S., requirements vary by state, but generally you’ll need to: provide valid ID for both partners, fill out an application (often available online), pay a fee, and possibly observe a waiting period before the ceremony[5][6]. Check your county’s website for the exact process—some places allow you to apply for the license via video call or online forms, while others may require an in-person visit to pick up the license[7][8]. Make sure to get your license well in advance so you’re ready by the wedding date. Remember that a marriage license typically has an expiration (often 30-90 days), so plan your timeline accordingly.

Tip: If you and your partner live in different states or countries, decide which jurisdiction you’ll use for the marriage license. In the U.S., you generally need a license from the state where your officiant will perform the ceremony. Many online wedding services operate through states like Utah because of their convenient virtual license process. (Utah County, for example, allows couples from anywhere to get a license and be married via Zoom with a Utah-registered officiant[9][10].) No matter which state issues your license, a marriage legally performed there is recognized nationwide[11], so you can marry online in one state and have it honored in all 50.

Officiant Requirements

Ensure your chosen officiant is authorized to perform marriages in the state (or country) where your marriage license is issued. The officiant might be a judge, clerk, religious minister, or a professional celebrant. If you’re using a service like Vowed and Clear, they will provide a properly licensed officiant who can legally perform your ceremony in an online format. This is important because some states require the officiant (and sometimes the couple or witnesses) to be physically located within the state during the ceremony[5]. Our officiants are fully licensed and experienced with virtual ceremonies, so they will guide you through any state-specific rules.

If you plan to have a friend or family member officiate, they may need to get ordained (many do so online through organizations like AMM) and register with the county beforehand, depending on local law. Be sure to check if there are any witness requirements as well. Some states require one or two adult witnesses to sign the marriage license. In a virtual wedding, this could mean having a witness physically present with you or joining the video call (certain jurisdictions allow virtual witnessing). Verify what your state requires so you can arrange for witnesses if needed. Vowed and Clear will ensure all legal boxes are checked, from the license to the ceremony to filing the paperwork afterwards.

How Do I Plan a Virtual Wedding Ceremony?

Quick Answer: Plan your virtual ceremony by setting up reliable technology (stable internet, good lighting, quality audio), creating a beautiful atmosphere with decorations and music, and making it interactive for guests through chat features, virtual backgrounds, and participation opportunities. Most couples complete setup in 1-2 hours with our guidance.

With the legalities underway, you can focus on the fun part: planning the ceremony and celebration! An online wedding ceremony comes with unique logistics, but careful planning will make everything run smoothly. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

Technology Setup

Having the right tech setup is critical for a smooth virtual wedding. You don’t need to be a tech expert or buy professional equipment, but you should prep and test a few key things:

Stable Internet: A reliable internet connection is a must. If possible, use a wired Ethernet connection or position your device close to the Wi-Fi router to ensure a strong signal. Ask others in your location to avoid heavy internet use during the ceremony. Tip: have a cell phone hotspot or backup internet source ready, just in case. It’s also wise to choose a platform that can handle your guest count – we use Zoom for our ceremonies due to its stability and capacity (Zoom can support hundreds of guests if needed). Platforms like Zoom also allow you to record the session easily for later viewing[12].
Good Lighting: Treat your virtual wedding space like a mini studio. Good lighting will make a huge difference in video quality. Natural light is ideal – set up facing a window if you can (with the camera between you and the window). If natural light is limited, use soft lighting from lamps or invest in a ring light to evenly illuminate you and your partner. Do a test at the same time of day as your ceremony to see how everything looks on camera.
Audio Quality: Clear audio helps your remote guests feel like they’re right there with you. Test your microphone beforehand – the built-in mics on laptops or phones can work, but consider using an external microphone or a headset for better clarity. Make sure you and your officiant can be heard without echoes or background noise. If using music (for your processional or first dance), test how it sounds over the call; sometimes playing music via screen-sharing or a separate speaker can affect volume, so adjust settings (Zoom, for example, has an “Original Sound” option for music). Having a quiet, closed space and using good audio equipment will ensure every word of your vows comes through clearly[12].
Backup Plan: Technology can be unpredictable, so have backups. Keep a secondary device (like a phone or tablet) handy, logged in and ready to switch if your main device fails. Charge all devices fully and keep chargers nearby. It’s also helpful to designate a tech coordinator (perhaps a tech-savvy friend or a hired professional) who isn’t on camera to manage any issues. They can handle muting/unmuting participants, adjusting camera angles, or troubleshooting if, say, the video freezes. Planning a short rehearsal or test call a few days before with your officiant and a friend can catch problems early so you’re well-prepared on the big day.

Creating the Atmosphere

Just because you’re on Zoom doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful wedding atmosphere. Put some thought into the setting and ambiance of your virtual ceremony:

Background: Choose a meaningful and tidy location for where you’ll say your vows. This could be your living room decorated for the occasion, a pretty outdoor spot with a stable internet connection, or any place special to you as a couple. Ensure the background is not distracting – you want the focus on you. Some couples even set up a simple arch, backdrop, or flowers behind them to mimic an altar. If your space is limited, you could use a tasteful virtual background (a photo of a place you love, for example), but test it on your platform – Zoom virtual backgrounds work best with good lighting and a solid-colored wall behind you. The goal is to create a setting that feels festive and personal.
Decorations: Treat your virtual wedding like a real event – because it is! A few decorations can make it feel special. Consider flowers, candles, or balloons that fit your theme. You might display meaningful items, like photos, heirlooms, or anything you’d have at an in-person ceremony. Keep decor within the camera frame so guests can appreciate it. Even small touches, like a banner or sign with your wedding date, can make your scene more celebratory. Be careful that decorations don’t clutter the area or block you from view; simplicity and significance are key. (One advantage of an online wedding is you can design the “stage” to be exactly as you envision, even overlaying digital decor or slideshows if you’re feeling techy[13], though simple real decorations often feel more authentic.)
Music: Music can set the tone and make your virtual ceremony feel cinematic. Plan a processional song (for when one or both of you “walk down the aisle” or appear on camera) and a recessional song for after the pronouncement. You can also include music during a unity ritual or for your first dance if you’ll do one on camera. With Zoom, you can share computer audio so that guests hear a high-quality version of the song. Assign someone (your coordinator or a friend) to play DJ, or have a playlist ready to go. Do a trial run to balance the volume of the music with voices – you don’t want to be drowned out by Canon in D or your favorite Ed Sheeran track.
Attire: Dress up as formally (or uniquely) as you would for any wedding. Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you have to wear sweatpants (unless that’s your dream!). Many couples choose the classic wedding attire – gowns, suits, cultural garments, etc. – which not only looks great on camera but also helps make the day feel momentous. Pro tip: do a video test in your outfit to see how it looks on screen (some whites can glare on camera, for instance, and you might discover you need to pin something differently). Encourage your wedding party or close family to dress up too, if they’ll be on camera. It can be fun to see everyone in their finery, even in virtual form. Ultimately, wear something that makes you feel special – you’re the stars of the show!

(Don’t forget practical details: have your rings, vows, and marriage license within reach. Also, consider printing a decorative sign or using the Zoom “lower third” title feature to display your names and wedding date on the video – a small professional touch that can look great in recordings.)

Quick FAQs: Online Wedding Planning Essentials

Q: How long does it take to plan an online wedding? A: Most couples complete their entire online wedding in 2-3 days. This includes obtaining your marriage license (approved within 1-2 business days), booking your ceremony (immediate), scheduling your date (24-hour minimum notice), and preparing your setup. Same-week weddings are definitely possible!

Q: Do I need special equipment for a virtual wedding? A: No expensive equipment needed! A laptop or smartphone with a camera, stable internet connection, and basic lighting (natural window light works great) are sufficient. We recommend using a tripod or stand for stability and testing your setup beforehand.

Q: Can guests participate in a virtual wedding ceremony? A: Absolutely! Guests can give readings, lead toasts, share screens for slideshows, and interact via chat. You can have up to 100 guests join via Zoom, making it feel like a real celebration with everyone together.

Q: What if my internet connection fails during the ceremony? A: Always have a backup plan: keep a charged phone with mobile data ready, use a family member’s connection as backup, or have a second device logged in. Most ceremonies complete without issues, but backups provide peace of mind.

How Do I Include Guests in My Virtual Wedding?

One challenge of an online wedding is making sure your guests feel included and know how to participate. Unlike a traditional wedding, you’ll be sending links instead of physical directions, and you might need to guide people a bit more. The good news is that by 2025, people are much more familiar with virtual events, and there are many ways to engage guests through the screen.

Before diving in, consider if you want to have a hybrid wedding. As mentioned earlier, a hybrid approach means a handful of guests join you in-person (perhaps immediate family or a wedding party), while the rest attend virtually[3]. This can give you the best of both worlds – some face-to-face celebration and the inclusive reach of streaming. If you go hybrid, make sure your in-person portion follows local gathering rules, and invest in good audio/video so the online guests can clearly see and hear everything. For today’s purposes, we’ll focus on the fully virtual experience, but many of these tips apply either way.

Virtual Guest List

Putting together a guest list for a virtual wedding can be liberating – you’re not limited by venue size! You can invite as many people as you want, as long as your streaming platform can handle it. Once you have your list:

Send Digital Invitations: Send out e-invites or emails with all the key details. Include the date and time (with time zone clearly noted, since virtual guests might be tuning in from different regions), the link to the Zoom meeting or live stream, and instructions on how to join. If your ceremony is on Zoom, provide the meeting ID and passcode, and maybe a brief guide for those less tech-savvy (like “Click the link, download Zoom if you don’t have it, and enter the passcode when prompted”). Encourage guests to RSVP so you have a sense of who will be logging in.
Provide Clear Instructions: Anticipate questions guests might have. In your invitation or a follow-up email, tell them what time the “virtual doors” will open (maybe 15 minutes before the ceremony start), how to use features like mute/unmute or chat, and whether you want them to have their cameras on or off during the ceremony. For example, you might say “We’d love to see your faces, so feel free to keep your camera on during the vows (just keep yourself on mute).” Or if you’re doing a one-way webcast, let them know they’ll be viewing only. Giving guidance beforehand ensures everyone knows what to expect and will minimize chaos or awkwardness during the event[14].
Consider Time Zones: If you have guests across the country or globe, try to choose a ceremony time that is reasonable for the majority. Of course, you can’t accommodate everyone perfectly, but be mindful if, say, your UK friends would have to be up at 3 a.m. to watch. In some cases, couples hold a second short ceremony or a replay at a different time for far-flung guests. At the very least, let distant guests know you will record the ceremony so they can watch later if the time is inconvenient.
Tech Support for Guests: Not everyone is a Zoom pro, so designate someone (a friend or relative not in the wedding party) to be the point of contact for any guest who has trouble joining the call. This “guest concierge” can field phone calls or texts to help Grandpa get his iPad working, while you focus on getting married. You can include that helper’s contact info in the invite (“If you have trouble connecting on the day, call/text ___”). This extra step will keep things running smoothly and keep you from being tech support on your wedding day.
Group Chat or Social Group: Consider creating a WhatsApp group, Facebook event page, or even a simple group text or Slack channel for your guests. This allows everyone to share excitement before and after the ceremony. Guests can drop congratulatory messages, screenshots, or photos of themselves dressed up watching your wedding. It builds a sense of community, almost like the chatter one would hear at a real wedding before the ceremony starts. Just have someone moderate or set guidelines so it remains positive and on-topic.

Making It Interactive

One fear about online weddings is that guests will feel like passive observers. But it doesn’t have to be that way – you can make your virtual wedding interactive and engaging. Here are some ideas to involve your guests and create a shared experience:

Guest Participation in the Ceremony: Invite a few loved ones to play an active role, just as you would in a traditional wedding. For example, you can have a friend or family member do a reading or a short speech during the ceremony. Coordinate this in advance and give them a cue to unmute and speak at the right moment. You could also have someone lead a prayer or blessing, or even do a musical performance virtually. Having familiar faces and voices on the screen will make the event feel communal. Just be sure to practice the hand-offs (who will introduce them, how you’ll transition back to the officiant, etc.). And remind participants to project and speak clearly into their mic.
Use a Wedding Hashtag: Just because your wedding is online doesn’t mean you can’t blow up social media with it! Create a unique wedding hashtag (e.g., #JackAndJillSayIDo2025) and share it with guests. Encourage them to post screenshots, well-wishes, or photos of themselves celebrating at home using that hashtag. This not only spreads the joy online but also gives you a fun collection of posts to look at later. It’s like a virtual guestbook spread across Instagram, Facebook, or even TikTok if you’re so inclined. (If you have a Twitter/X or Instagram account for your wedding, you could even display a live feed of hashtagged posts during your virtual reception.)
Live Reactions and Chat: One great feature of platforms like Zoom is the chat box and reaction emojis. Embrace these tools! Ask your officiant to welcome guests to use the chat to send their congratulations or funny commentary (“virtual applause” is always welcome after the first kiss). Guests can also use emoji reactions (💖 🎉 👏) during key moments. Reading the chat later can be a heartwarming experience because you’ll see everyone’s real-time emotions and support. If you prefer to keep the ceremony itself solemn, you could disable chat until after the formal portion, then open it up during a virtual reception or toast time.
Virtual Reception / After-Party: Plan some form of virtual reception once the formal ceremony is over. This could be as simple as keeping the Zoom call going for everyone to chat freely, or as structured as a series of toasts and a first dance on camera. You might do breakout rooms for guests to socialize in smaller groups (like virtual tables), or have everyone stay in one big room but take turns unmuting to give toasts. If you want, you can include fun elements like a virtual cake cutting (send cupcakes or small cakes to VIP guests in advance so they can “cut” cake with you) or a champagne toast where everyone toasts on camera. Some couples have even incorporated games – for instance, a trivia quiz about the couple that everyone can answer via chat, or a short slideshow of their story to watch together. The key is to create moments where guests feel actively involved, not just watching. This might require a bit more planning and maybe a co-host to MC the activities, but it can elevate the experience for all.
Surprises and Delights: Little surprises go a long way online. You could arrange for a video montage of messages from guests to play (perhaps in lieu of a receiving line, you collect videos ahead of time). Or invite everyone to hold up a celebratory sign or wear a funny hat on cue. One trending idea is sending care packages to close family and friends ahead of the wedding[15]. These packages might include items like a mini bottle of champagne, a slice of cake or cookies, confetti poppers, or a small favor. Then during the ceremony or reception, you can all do something together (pop the confetti or drink the toast). It creates a shared physical element despite being apart. While not required, these thoughtful touches can make your guests feel truly part of your big day.

Remember, not every guest will be super tech-savvy or outgoing, and that’s okay. Provide ways for both active participation and laid-back watching. Those who want to join the fun will do so, and those who prefer to just observe can still feel included by virtue of being there. By planning these interactive elements, you’re essentially hosting an event, not just a broadcast, and that makes it memorable for everyone involved[16][17].

Personal Touches

One worry about virtual weddings is that they might feel impersonal or “not special enough.” In reality, you can incorporate all the personal touches you want – sometimes even more easily than at a big traditional wedding. The key is to focus on what’s meaningful to you as a couple. Here are some ways to make your online wedding deeply personal and unforgettable:

Custom Vows

Writing your own vows is a beautiful way to personalize your wedding, and doing it in an intimate setting might even make it easier to pour your heart out. Without a big crowd physically in front of you, you might feel more comfortable expressing yourself openly to your partner. Take advantage of this by crafting deeply personal vows that reflect your unique journey together. You can keep note cards or a printed copy of your vows just off-camera or in your hand, so you don’t have to memorize them. Speak slowly and clearly for the microphone, and don’t worry about getting emotional – it’s part of the moment! Our officiants at Vowed and Clear are happy to help you shape your vows or integrate any personal stories you’d like to share. Since everything is on video, you could even incorporate a brief slideshow or a photo in the background as you mention meaningful memories (though keep it simple to avoid technical distractions). The bottom line: say what’s in your heart. The virtual format does not make it any less real – those promises are just as powerful whether spoken in a church or on a Zoom call.

Family Traditions

Honor your families and cultures by incorporating traditions into your online ceremony. Just because you’re not all in one place doesn’t mean you have to skip that meaningful ritual handed down through generations. Get creative with it. For instance, if lighting a unity candle is important to you, go ahead and do it on camera – you and your partner can each light a candle and then together light a central one. To involve your virtual guests, you could invite them beforehand to light their own candle at the same time, symbolically joining you (just be clear in the program so they’re ready). If your culture has a traditional ceremony element (breaking the glass, a tea ceremony, jumping the broom, etc.), find a way to do it on screen and explain its significance to your audience. Many couples in 2025 are using virtual weddings as a platform to celebrate diverse customs and make everyone feel included[18][19]. You might ask a family elder to speak and explain a ritual or say a blessing in their language.

A ring warming ceremony is another lovely idea: normally, you’d pass the rings around for each guest to imbue with good wishes. In a virtual context, you can’t pass the rings physically, but you could hold your rings up to the camera while someone (maybe a parent or the officiant) invites everyone to mentally send their blessings or say a prayer. It’s surprisingly poignant even via video. Similarly, if you have heirlooms or important symbols (maybe you’re using grandma’s wedding veil or a special garland), make sure they’re visible or take a moment to mention them so guests know and feel that connection.

Memory Making

One silver lining of an online wedding is that you will automatically have a digital record of the day. But you can go beyond just hitting “record” on Zoom. Plan to capture memories in multiple ways:

Professional Recording: Consider hiring a videographer or asking a tech-savvy friend to professionally record the ceremony. Even though Zoom can record, a dedicated camera or two can provide higher quality footage. The videographer can later edit the recording, perhaps combining the Zoom footage (to get guest reactions) with a high-resolution feed of you and your partner. This edited video will be a treasure to look back on, and you can share it with anyone who couldn’t attend. If hiring a pro isn’t in the budget, at least record the Zoom call and maybe do a local recording from your device as a backup. Double-check that you have enough storage space and everything is charged.
Screenshots and Photos: Designate someone (maybe your tech coordinator or a friend) to take screenshots during key moments – for example, a gallery view screenshot of all your guests cheering after the kiss, or a shot of the two of you during the vow exchange. These candid screen captures can be fun additions to your photo album. You can also ask guests to take a selfie of themselves “attending” your wedding from their living room and send it to you. Later, compile these into a collage – it’s like a time capsule of how everyone looked on that day. Some couples create a physical photo book with a mix of their own pictures and screenshots of guests, chats, and the Zoom grid – a unique keepsake of a unique celebration.
Virtual Guest Book: Instead of a traditional guestbook on a table, set up a virtual guest book. This could be as simple as a shared online document or a Google Form where people can write messages. Or use one of the emerging online guestbook services that allow guests to leave video messages and photos in a gallery for you[20][21]. Share the guestbook link during or after the ceremony and encourage everyone to drop a note or upload a fun picture. Later, you and your spouse can read/watch all the sweet messages together. It’s a great way to feel the love, especially since you won’t have the in-person hugs and handshakes.
Livestream for Extended Family: If you opted for a more private Zoom ceremony with only select guests, you can still live stream the event for a wider audience via a platform like YouTube Live or Facebook Live (you can set up a private or unlisted stream and share the link). Live streaming in 2025 is a common way to connect loved ones globally[12]. We often help couples broadcast their ceremony so that people who didn’t get an invite to the interactive Zoom (or who aren’t comfortable operating Zoom) can still watch in real time. This is especially useful for very large families or community members who just want to see the wedding without the pressure of being on camera. After the fact, you’ll have a saved video on those platforms which you can share around.

Every wedding creates precious memories – an online format just means you’ll capture them a bit differently. Embrace the digital keepsakes! Years from now, you might look back and see all your friends smiling in little Zoom boxes, and it will remind you how everyone came together to celebrate your love despite being miles apart.

Timeline for Planning

Planning a virtual wedding typically requires less lead time than a full traditional wedding, but it’s still wise to give yourself a comfortable timeline. Here’s a suggested planning timeline to keep you on track and stress-free:

6-8 Weeks Before

Book Your Ceremony: Reserve your date and time with Vowed and Clear (or your chosen online wedding service/officiant). Our calendar can fill up, so the sooner you book, the better – especially if you need a popular date or an odd hour to accommodate international guests.
Obtain Marriage License: Start the marriage license application process now. Depending on your state, you may need to schedule a video call with the clerk or wait for an appointment slot[22][7]. Gather necessary documents (IDs, any prior marriage divorce decrees, etc.) and submit the application per your local guidelines. Make sure you know how long the license is valid.
Save-the-Dates: Send out a digital “save the date” announcement to let guests know the wedding is coming and that it will be online. This can be a nice e-card or even a simple email. Mention that a formal invitation with a link will follow. This heads-up is especially helpful for a virtual event so guests can test their tech or mark their calendars early.
Brainstorm Ceremony Details: Begin discussing the structure of your ceremony with your partner and officiant. Will you include any special rituals or additional speakers? This is the time to plan those elements. We will provide you with a basic ceremony script, but you have the freedom to customize it. If writing your own vows, start drafting them now so you have plenty of time to refine.

3-4 Weeks Before

Send Formal Invitations: About a month out, send the official invitations or e-vites with all the details (exact time, Zoom link or platform, any passwords, etc.). You might use a service like Paperless Post or a simple custom email with nice graphics. Make it clear how guests should RSVP – maybe by replying to the email or via a wedding website if you have one. Include the tech instructions/tips for guests as described in the “Virtual Guest List” section.
Plan the Tech Setup: Nail down what devices and setup you will use. For example, decide “We will use a laptop with HD webcam for Zoom, and an iPhone as a backup camera.” If you need to purchase or borrow any equipment (tripod, microphone, lighting), do it now so you can practice with it. If you have hired any vendors (videographer, etc.), coordinate with them about how the streaming will work.
Ceremony Run-through with Officiant: Schedule a planning session with your officiant (this can be on Zoom) to go over the ceremony outline. Share any personal stories or preferences so they can tailor the script. If you have readers or other speakers, loop them in on the plan now. This is also a good time to discuss the order of events for the day – for example, will you do a first dance on camera after the vows? Will there be a time when everyone is unmuted to cheer? Having a clear agenda helps everyone know what’s happening.
Order Decorations or Attire: If you’ll be buying any special decorations, backdrops, or need to ensure your wedding attire arrives on time, take care of those details about a month before. Even though you might not need as much “stuff” as a big wedding, you don’t want last-minute stress over a missing flower bouquet or a delayed dress alteration.
Send Care Packages (Optional): If you plan to mail out any wedding boxes or favors to guests, start assembling and sending them now so they arrive in time (especially for faraway guests). This could include those mini champagne bottles, treats, or anything you want people to have during the ceremony.

1 Week Before

Test Everything: Do a full tech rehearsal about a week out. This means setting up exactly as you will on the day, and having your coordinator or a friend join a Zoom test meeting to check sound, video, lighting, and internet stability. If you can, test playing your music through Zoom and have your friend confirm it’s audible. Run through any slideshows or videos you intend to share. The goal is to identify any technical kinks now – whether it’s an echo when both your laptop and your partner’s iPad are on, or a lamp causing glare on your glasses – and fix them ahead of time. Test, test, test – you won’t regret the extra effort![17]
Confirm Details with Guests: It’s a good idea to send a reminder email to all guests about a week before the wedding. Thank them for RSVPing, remind them of the date/time approaching, and re-attach the join link and any guidelines (“Don’t forget to download Zoom” or “Feel free to dress up and have a glass of champagne with us!”). This is also a chance to share the schedule of events if you like (for example: “Ceremony will last about 20 minutes, followed by a virtual reception with toasts and dancing. We estimate wrapping up by 8 PM EST.”). If you have guests assigned to speak or do a reading, double-check they are prepared and know how to unmute on Zoom.
Prepare Your Space: A few days out, do a tidy-up of the area where you’ll be filming. Position your camera and do final tweaks to your backdrop or decorations. Make sure the space is comfortable – you might be in that spot for a couple of hours. Have a small table nearby for essentials like water, tissues, rings, and your laptop charger. If you’re using real candles, have a lighter handy. Also, give some thought to camera framing: do you want a wide shot showing you both full-length, or closer to capture facial expressions? Set this in advance. You might even put some tape on the floor to mark where to stand or sit so you remain in frame.
Practice Your Ceremony: While a full-blown rehearsal with a wedding party may not be needed, it’s still worth practicing your ceremony at least once. You and your partner can read through your vows to each other (or at least privately to rehearse), and practice any special actions like ring exchange or unity rituals so you know how to coordinate them on camera. If you have an in-person helper or a small wedding party, have them practice their parts too. Getting comfortable with the flow will make you less nervous on the day. Plus, it’s a nice excuse to get excited – you’re almost there!

Day Of

Set Up Early: On the wedding day, give yourself plenty of time to set up the tech and environment. Log into the Zoom meeting early (at least 30 minutes before the start) to make sure everything is working. This is when your coordinator or tech helper can join and do one last check of sound and video. Start any virtual meeting “waiting room” or pre-ceremony music if you’re doing that. It’s much better to be ready and relaxed with time to spare than rushing at the last minute because a cable is missing.
Final Tech Check: Do one last confirmation that all devices are charged or plugged in, your internet is stable (maybe ask housemates to stay offline for the next hour or two), and settings like “mute upon entry” in Zoom are enabled if you want them. Assign co-host rights to your tech helper on Zoom, so they can handle muting people or spotlighting video feeds. And don’t forget to hit “Record” on Zoom or your camera when the time comes! It can be helpful to have a sticky note on your screen saying “RECORD” so you won’t forget in the excitement.
Have a Backup Plan Ready: Despite all your preparation, stay flexible. If something goes wrong – for example, if your internet drops – have a plan. Maybe you’ll switch to the backup device on a phone hotspot, or your officiant will continue the ceremony via phone and you’ll share a recorded video later. Discuss a Plan B with your officiant so you’re on the same page. These contingencies likely won’t be needed, but knowing you have a backup will keep you calm. (At Vowed and Clear, our officiants have dealt with all sorts of scenarios, so they’ll help keep things on track no matter what.)
Relax and Enjoy: Once everything is set and guests are joining, take a deep breath. This is your wedding day! It might feel unconventional to be staring at a screen of people instead of walking down an aisle, but the love and significance of the moment are very real. Focus on your partner and the meaning of the words you’re saying to each other. Smile, laugh, cry – let yourself feel everything. Technical stuff aside, this is your moment. If there are small hiccups (someone forgets to unmute, or the dog barks in the background), just roll with it. In fact, those little imperfections might become funny memories later. The beauty of a smaller, online wedding is that you can truly be yourselves and be present with each other.

Making It Legal

A question we often hear is: “Is an online wedding actually legal?” The answer is yes – as long as you follow the proper steps. Your online ceremony with Vowed and Clear will be completely legal when the following conditions are met:

Valid Marriage License: You must obtain a marriage license prior to the ceremony, and it must be valid on the day of your wedding. (We covered this in the Legal Requirements section.) The ceremony typically has to be conducted in the jurisdiction of that license. Since we operate across the U.S., we’ll guide you to get a license in a state that supports online weddings if your home state does not. For example, many couples choose to get legally married under Utah’s system because it allows remote ceremonies for people anywhere[9]. No matter which state you use, a properly issued U.S. marriage license and certified ceremony will be recognized nationwide[11].
Licensed Officiant: A licensed or ordained officiant must perform the ceremony and attest that you both consent to the marriage. All Vowed and Clear officiants are fully credentialed to solemnize marriages. We ensure the officiant is either physically present in the required location or otherwise compliant with the law for online ceremonies. (Different states have different rules here, but we take care of that complexity so you don’t have to worry.)
Witnesses (if required): Some states require one or two witnesses (over 18) to be present at the ceremony and sign the marriage license. If that’s the case for your wedding, you can have a friend or family member present with you in person, or in some instances, witnesses can join the video call. We’ll let you know what your specific license mandates. For instance, Utah requires two witnesses but they allow those witnesses to sign electronically and even be in a different location as long as they witness the live video[23][24]. We can help coordinate any witness logistics so it’s all above board.
Real-Time Ceremony: The ceremony should be real-time (live), not pre-recorded, so that the officiant can observe your consent (“I do” etc.) and pronounce you married. In an online wedding, this simply means your Zoom (or other platform) session is happening live with all parties. Some jurisdictions consider a video wedding valid only if it’s interactive two-way video. All of our ceremonies meet that standard – you, your partner, the officiant (and any required witnesses) will be connected live, fulfilling the requirement of “appearing” before the officiant[25][26].
Proper Documentation: After the ceremony, the officiant will sign the marriage license (along with any witnesses) and handle the submission of the paperwork to the county clerk or appropriate office. In a virtual wedding, this might involve electronic signatures or the officiant mailing the documents. Rest assured, we will take care of filing the official paperwork promptly. Once filed, the marriage is legally recorded. You can then request certified copies of your marriage certificate for your records, name changes, etc.

In summary, as long as you follow the guidelines and work within the law, an online wedding is just as legally binding as an in-person one[27][28]. Vowed and Clear specializes in navigating these legalities for couples. We stay up-to-date on any changes in online marriage laws (which did evolve a lot in recent years) and will ensure your ceremony is compliant. You deserve to enjoy your wedding day without worrying about fine print – leave that part to us!

(One note: U.S. immigration law and other countries’ laws do recognize marriages performed online under U.S. jurisdiction, but sometimes with additional conditions. If you or your spouse plan to use the marriage certificate for immigration purposes or foreign recognition, make sure to mention that so we can guide you appropriately. Generally, as long as the marriage is legally valid where performed, it’s considered valid for immigration[29][30], but it’s always good to double-check any special requirements.)

After the Ceremony

Congratulations, you did it – you’re married! 🎉 Once the virtual confetti has settled and you’ve logged off from Zoom, there are a few post-ceremony steps and ideas to keep the celebration going:

Ceremonial Certificate: Many online officiant services (including us) provide a ceremonial marriage certificate as a keepsake. This is not the legal document filed with the state, but a nice memento you can print or frame. It often includes your names, the date, and the officiant’s signature in a beautiful script. It’s a sweet reminder of your online wedding day and looks great in photos.
Official Paperwork: Your officiant will take care of filing the official marriage license with the issuing authority. However, it’s a good idea to follow up within a week or two to ensure it’s been recorded. You should then request certified copies of your marriage certificate from the county (usually for a small fee). These certified copies will be important for things like name changes, insurance, or any legal verification of your marriage. We often handle the ordering of one copy for you, but you may need additional copies. Check the county clerk’s website for how to obtain those – some allow online orders.
Thank-You Notes: Virtual wedding or not, it’s thoughtful to send thank-you notes to anyone who sent gifts or helped make your day special. Because everything was online, a nice touch is to include a screenshot or photo from the wedding in your thank-you message. For example, you might email a thank-you card with a picture of you two during the ceremony or a group screenshot of all the Zoom guests smiling. Personalize your notes to express gratitude not just for gifts, but for their virtual presence and support. (“Thank you for attending our Zoom wedding – it meant the world to have you there, even from afar!”) If you sent out care packages, you can also thank people for participating in those fun elements.
Share the Recording: Many of your guests will love to relive the ceremony, and some who couldn’t log in live will be eager to watch it. Once you have the recording (whether it’s the raw Zoom recording or a cleaned-up edited version), share it with your friends and family. You can upload it as a private video on YouTube or Vimeo and send the link around, or even host a watch party later. Also consider sharing highlights on social media – for instance, a short clip of your vows or the moment you were pronounced married (whatever you’re comfortable making public). It spreads the joy and lets everyone be part of your marriage journey[12][31].
Plan Future Celebrations: One of the beauties of an online wedding is that you can always have an in-person celebration later. If circumstances allow, you might plan a reception, party, or even a vow renewal when family and friends can gather physically. Some couples call this a “sequel wedding” or simply a belated reception. It could be on your first anniversary or any time that suits. Knowing you have that to look forward to can be comforting if you did feel you missed the big party aspect. And if you’ve already had the virtual wedding, any future party can be purely celebratory with less pressure. On the flip side, you might find that your online wedding was so satisfying that you don’t feel the need for another event – and that’s fine too! The important thing is you’re married and starting your life together.
Preserve Your Memories: Take some time after the wedding to backup all digital memories. Save the chat log from Zoom if you can (it often contains all the congratulations messages). Download all those hashtagged photos from social media. Maybe create a cloud folder for everything related to the wedding (screenshots, video files, photos taken by any in-person friend, etc.). This ensures that years down the line, you still have access to these files. You could also create a physical photo album or a printed “yearbook” of your virtual wedding, combining pictures and transcripts or little stories from the day. It’s a unique piece of history – yours!

Finally, take a moment with your new spouse to just soak it all in. You pulled off a wedding in a novel way and that’s something to be proud of. Celebrate the fact that you navigated the tech, the planning, and everything in between, and ended up married at the end of the day. That’s what it’s all about.

Tips for Success

Every wedding – virtual or not – can have its hiccups. Based on our experience with online ceremonies, here are some top tips to ensure a successful and stress-free day:

Communicate Clearly: Make sure everyone involved knows the plan. This includes your partner, officiant, bridal party, family, and guests. Send out clear instructions and agendas. If you expect your parents to give a speech or your friend to play guitar, confirm they know when and how. Clarity prevents confusion, especially when people aren’t all in the same room.
Test Everything: We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – test your tech multiple times[17]. Do a trial run of the entire setup and maybe even a mini-rehearsal of the ceremony. Test the internet, camera angles, sound with music, screen sharing – the works. It’s the best way to avoid surprises. And if something still goes wrong, at least you’ll know you did all you could, which will help you stay calm and adapt.
Have a Coordinator: Enlist a trusted person to act as your virtual stage manager. This could be a professional or just a very responsible friend. Their job is to handle the technical aspects and any guest issues, so you don’t have to. For instance, they can monitor the waiting room and admit guests, mute that one person who has background noise, launch the music at the right time, and coordinate any transitions (“Now we’ll hear a toast from Alice,” etc.). This takes a huge weight off your shoulders. If possible, have this person not be someone in your immediate family or wedding party (they’ll be busy enjoying the ceremony). It could even be a service provided by your online wedding platform – ask us if you need a pro coordinator, and we can help arrange one.
Embrace the Intimacy: A virtual wedding is typically a smaller, more intimate affair than a 200-person gala. And that’s a good thing. Embrace the cozy, personal vibe. You can actually interact with your guests more directly (seeing everyone’s faces on screen, chatting with them in real time) than you might at a huge wedding where you barely get to say hello to each person. Many couples report that their online weddings felt remarkably warm and special because they were focused on the meaning of the day rather than logistics of a big event[4][1]. So lean into the unique advantages – less stress, lower cost, no worrying about seating charts or weather, and the ability to genuinely connect with each other and with everyone watching.
Focus on What Matters: At the end of it all, what matters most is that you are marrying the love of your life. It’s easy to get caught up in webcams, virtual guest counts, or whether your backdrop looks Pinterest-perfect. But don’t lose sight of the why of this day. You’re celebrating your commitment and love. If the tech fails spectacularly, or the decor isn’t as planned, or your toddler knocks over the ring light – it’s okay. You’ll still be just as married. Some of the best moments are the ones you can’t script. So when the time comes, look into your partner’s eyes (or at the camera together), speak from the heart, and let yourself feel the joy. Everyone attending is there to support you and celebrate love – that’s the whole point.

Remember, your wedding day – virtual or otherwise – is about celebrating your love and commitment. Whether you’re exchanging vows online or in a grand cathedral, the significance is the same. By planning thoughtfully and infusing the event with your personalities, you’ll find that an online wedding can be just as memorable, emotional, and fun as any other. In some ways, it’s even more special because it’s a celebration of love overcoming distance and circumstance.

Ready to start planning your own online wedding? 💍 Vowed and Clear is here to help every step of the way. From legal paperwork to Zoom choreography, we’ve got you covered. Book your ceremony with Vowed and Clear and let us help make your special day absolutely perfect. Here’s to your happily ever after – streaming live and full of love!

[1] [2] [4] [14] How to Have a Virtual Wedding in 2023

https://www.younghipandmarried.com/virtual-wedding/

[3] [12] [13] [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [20] [21] [26] [27] [28] [31] Embracing the Future: Virtual Wedding Trends and Innovations in 2025 - Virtual Same Day Marriage