subject: Facebook Becoming Useful For Engaged Couples [print this page] With over 500 million active users, its no wonder Facebook has found a way to influence the bridal industry.
The social networking website has become an outlet where brides (and grooms) can plan their wedding, communicate with friends and family, get in touch with vendors and document the whole wedding process with posts, pictures, videos and more.
Wedding applications
Some of the most popular wedding accessories Facebook provides are wedding applications. Wedding apps like Wedding Wire allow users access to a plethora of wedding tools. Users can:
Create a profile that almost acts as a separate Facebook page: On this profile the couple can share their story and list their bridesmaids and groomsmen (if the members of the bridal party are on Facebook it will connect to them). Users can also create a guest list, have a countdown to the wedding, post updates and more.
Interact with other brides and grooms through forums: Mostly brides utilize this tool. However, it allows users to share advice on wedding supplies, dresses, planning ideas and support each other during the sometimes stressful planning period.
Shop: Wedding Buzz, which is powered by The Knot Inc., allows users to search for a variety of wedding supplies in their area. Keep in mind this is a form of advertising, so only the companies that pay for a spot will be seen.
Get in touch with all kinds of vendors
Many wedding vendors in addition to the ones listed on applications have Facebook pages of their own. Engaged couples can communicate with the vendors via their profile pages. Many bridal companies, like Chicago-based Bridal Elements, include tips and helpful information not related to sales on their Facebook page.
Couples can also find a photographer on Facebook. Many photographers will have albums posted on their pages that showcase their work. The same thing goes for wedding locations, caterers, travel destinations, and more.
The difference between a vendors Facebook page and their website is that Facebook normally provides more of a personal experience for users. On Facebook, a couple can see how the vendor interacts with people and if any of their friends have used them. They can view posts and comments on the vendors wall as well.
Other Facebook tools
Engaged couples can use other Facebook tools for their wedding planning as well. Messaging allows couples to connect with people in an organized way. For example; a bride can start a private message thread with her bridesmaids to discuss dress options. Some couples even chose to invite people to their wedding by creating an event on Facebook.
Is Facebook the new wedding planner?
Facebook is helpful and convenient when it comes to planning and organizing a wedding. It provides a medium for the bride and groom to communicate with those involved with the big event, find vendors, search for wedding supplies and share the memories of their special day.
Will Facebook replace traditional wedding planning steps? Not necessarily. While the site helps with networking, there are some long-lived wedding traditions that cant be recreated by Facebook. Whether its the classic script covered wedding invitations, or a bride meeting up with her bridesmaids to discuss wedding plans, Facebook can enhance the planning process, but wont change many of the traditions.
