Will there ever be weddings via WhatsApp groups?

Last week, my childhood friend from school far away from Oman added me to a WhatsApp group meant to announce the arrangements for his wedding. The group currently has over 470 people, the average number that attends weddings.
While the concept of a wedding conducted entirely via WhatsApp groups is not a current reality, WhatsApp is extensively used for various aspects of wedding planning, communication and even for creating a sense of community among guests, especially for destination weddings.
The platform’s features make it a highly convenient tool for modern couples. This led me to wonder if there will be a real wedding ceremony held via such groups one day.
At present, WhatsApp’s utility in weddings primarily revolves around communication and organisation. Couples and wedding organisers use WhatsApp groups to streamline information flow, manage guest lists and coordinate various activities leading up to and during the wedding itself.
This digital approach offers several advantages over traditional methods, including instant delivery, cost-effectiveness and the ability to share rich media like photos and videos.
For example, WhatsApp groups are commonly used for sending invitations and RSVPs. Dedicated groups can also be created for the wedding party, family members, or specific committees to discuss logistics, share ideas and make decisions.
These groups are essential for coordinating outfits, planning pre-wedding events like henna parties and ensuring everyone is on the same page. For destination weddings, WhatsApp groups become indispensable, allowing for real-time updates on travel, accommodation, event schedules and helping guests connect with each other.
However, the idea of a wedding conducted via WhatsApp groups, with the actual ceremony and vows taking place solely within the app, is not feasible or legally recognised in most jurisdictions.
A wedding typically requires a physical presence for legal solemnisation and often involves traditional rituals and celebrations that cannot be replicated virtually through a messaging app. While virtual elements like live streaming for remote guests are common, they supplement, rather than replace, the in-person ceremony.
The trend indicates a continued integration of digital tools like WhatsApp into wedding planning and guest management, making the process more efficient and interactive. However, the core elements of a wedding, particularly the legal and ceremonial aspects, remain largely in the physical realm.
Until we meet next, I wish my childhood friend a very happy wedding.