Housekeeping During the Ceremony

One of the things I love most about weddings is the atmosphere just before everything begins. The air is buzzing with anticipation. Guests are catching up with old friends, beaming with excitement, and ready to celebrate you. They’re feeling it all — joy, love, connection.

To make sure things run smoothly and everyone knows what to do and when, I’ll take care of the housekeeping at the start and end of your ceremony. This is a chance to share any requests you have with your guests, gently and clearly, so they can relax and enjoy the moment knowing exactly what’s expected.

What is Housekeeping?

Housekeeping is simply a warm welcome combined with practical information for your guests. It sets the tone, removes any confusion, and ensures that everything flows beautifully — especially for those guests who may not have been to a wedding in a while.

I’ll take care of this for you. You won’t need to think about it on the day.

What I Might Say at the Start of the Ceremony

These are some common housekeeping points that couples often want me to include:

Unplugged Ceremonies

This is where I kindly ask guests to put away their phones and cameras and be fully present.

Why couples love it:

  • No sea of phones in your professional photos

  • Your photographer can get the shots you’ve paid them for

  • Guests can soak up the moment without distraction

Why you might skip it:

  • You may not have a pro photographer

  • You’re happy for guests to snap and share freely

Social Media Requests

I’ll let guests know your preference about sharing images online. Some couples prefer to keep things private, at least until they’ve shared the first official photo themselves.

Why it matters:

  • You get to decide what the world sees first

  • It keeps the experience intimate and in the moment

Or, if you're happy to share the love straight away:

  • It allows friends and family who couldn’t make it to join in the joy

  • You’re not fussed about the photo quality or timing

Confetti

If you’ve got a confetti moment planned (love that!), I’ll let guests know to hold onto it and when to get ready. When the time comes, I’ll give them a little coaching on how to throw it high and wide — it makes for beautiful photos and keeps it out of your face!

Optional Requests

Every couple is different, and I’ll tailor the housekeeping to suit your style. Some less common but totally valid options include:

  • Asking guests to remain seated as you walk in

  • Offering a “photo moment” partway through the ceremony where everyone can take their snaps, and then phones go away again

Before the Ceremony Ends

Just before we wrap up the formalities, I’ll let your guests know what’s next so they’re not left wondering.

Group Photo

If you’re planning a big group shot after the ceremony, I’ll tell everyone where to go and when to be there.

Where to Go Next

Whether it’s drinks on the lawn, a wander to the cocktail hour, or a little break before the reception, I’ll give your guests clear instructions. If there’s a long gap, we can even suggest nearby cafés or scenic spots (very handy in Byron Bay!).

Transport

If you’ve organised buses or shuttles, I’ll let everyone know where to wait and what time to be there.

Cards & Gifts

Guests often arrive holding cards or gifts and aren’t sure where to put them. I’ll point them in the right direction so they can relax and enjoy the celebration.

Let’s Keep it Flowing

Housekeeping isn’t boring — when it’s done well, it makes your guests feel welcome, informed, and at ease. I’ll make sure your wishes are shared in a friendly, thoughtful way, so your ceremony flows beautifully from the very first moment to the last.

Let me know if there’s anything special you’d like included — it’s all part of creating a ceremony that feels completely like you.