The heart of a wedding is not determined by technology, but I have come to appreciate that technological innovation can certainly enhance the experience, particularly in the far flung world in which we find ourselves. Beyond the photos and videos, many brides and grooms like to draw in their loved ones in “real time,” even when they are half a world away.
For modern couples, this can take several forms. In the ubiquitous world of social media, of course, brides and grooms rush to their facebook page to post wedding pictures, while changing their “relationship status”—sometimes at the altar! Recently, I officiated the wedding of a colleague who is originally from South America. With an impromptu elopement, her family members were unable to attend the wedding, but by skype, there were more guests (albeit virtual) on the bride’s “side” than on her groom’s side, who was a local fellow from Long Island! Alternatively, I have become rather attached to my personal flip cam, that allows me to film post-nuptial messages that can reach family members on the other side of the globe. Consider for instance the little clip below. Kaye and Mick have been together for two decades, seemingly with no plans to marry. The clever groom wooed his British bride to America, on the pretense of celebrating his 50th birthday. (He organized a half dozen or so of their closest friends to join them on the holiday.) Yet, once they arrived in New York, he proposed! I, along with a photographer friend of mine, were waiting in the wings to marry them! We captured the announcement of their big news on a little video clip that was uploaded on You Tube. I’m sure it made their family members and friends over in the UK feel as if they were able to partake –just a little—in the days festivities!
I can’t wait to see what future years will bring us in the way of technological innovation!
Photos by the wonderful Laura Pennace,
