When it comes to weddings, we love to see couples embracing their own unique style and making the day a true reflection of who they are as individuals. But even more so, we love it when those weddings are a little out of the ordinary—like when Alia-Ranbir’s private affair was a bit lowkey and Anbani’s was a tad grand or when a couple gets married in outer space.
But what if there was an even more out-of-this-world way to tie the knot? A new space startup is offering the chance to have a wedding in the Metaverse, or immersive virtual world. And while it may sound like a crazy idea, this is actually very real and very close to becoming a reality.
The startup, Virbela, creates environments that can be used for work, learning and events. And they’ve recently started to host wedding ceremonies. It’s all part of their efforts to explore how they can expand the Metaverse to accommodate more than just the typical work and play activities it was originally designed for.
For those who haven’t heard of the Metaverse, it’s an online virtual world that allows you to interact with others using avatars. It’s the same way we navigate social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. You can do all sorts of things in the Metaverse, including livestreaming a wedding or even marrying a digital version of yourself.
In fact, last year a couple who’s own in-person ceremony was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic staged their nuptials within Animal Crossing, a popular video game. And now, a company called Space Perspectives is offering to take those ceremonies to the edge of space in a virtual capsule with breathtaking views of Earth below you and the stars above you.
The first space wedding will take place in 2027 aboard a Voyager Station, an orbiting space hotel that will be built much like a cruise ship. And if you don’t have the budget for a trip to outer space, the company plans to release more Plug and Play assets that you can use in your own virtual wedding in the future.
So if you’re ready to go the extra mile for your big day, or maybe just want a glimpse into what a Metaverse wedding might look like, check out this episode of Wedding Wednesday. I’ll give you the lowdown on what traditional venues, naked spaces and private property bring to the table, plusses and minuses and help you decide which is best for your big day!
A Raw Space is any non-traditional venue (museum, arts center/theater, town-building, park or historical property) that doesn’t come with the traditional tables, chairs, flatware, china, glassware and decor. Most Raw Spaces have rental fees that are lower than traditional wedding venues but they usually come very bare bones. This can be a DIYer’s dream but it can also be a disaster if you aren’t careful. It’s important to do your research on the space and make sure you have a solid plan for all of the necessary vendors to be brought in before booking a Raw Space venue.