Amplifying voices for your ceremony can be an overlooked item when planning for your wedding day. But with your guests gathering from near and far you want to make sure they can hear the ceremony and those special vows that take you across the threshold into marriage.
Even if you’re having an intimate ceremony with immediate family and friends you’ll want to consider amplifying voices for your ceremony. Outdoor ceremonies are especially prone to audio issues as the wind can take voices away from your guests, street noise and even the noises of nature can be louder than you expect. You definitely want to visit your venue on the day of week and as close to your ceremony time as possible to evaluate the area for ambient noises. The rumbling of a refrigerator truck at the loading dock of a golf club during a Friday afternoon ceremony a few years ago would have been disastrous if microphones had not been in place.
Wedding venues sometimes have audio equipment that can be used or rented for your ceremony. If you have a DJ providing music for the ceremony they may be able to provide microphones for the celebrant and readers, too. Because amplifying voices is so important, I’ve invested in a few different portable systems so I can provide what is needed for ceremonies, and some other celebrants do as well. Make sure that you discuss the audio needs with your celebrant and any soloists and make arrangements to have the right audio equipment in place for your ceremony.
Special audio considerations will be needed if your venue does not have electricity (there are battery powered audio systems available, too). You’ll need to figure out what kinds of microphones are needed – hand held, wearable (lavalier or headset), wired or wireless, and if stands are needed. Different audio systems provide for different numbers and kinds of audio inputs, too, so make sure that any system you plan to use can accommodate the number and kind of devices you need.
On a final note, make sure that a sound check is done before the ceremony begins and that a knowledgeable person is available to manage the audio equipment so amplifying voices for your ceremony is seamless and inconspicuous. Your guests can then focus on what they are hearing and experiencing with you as you make your promises and begin your marriage.