A Privacy Invasion Can Sneak Up On You

Last month, a wedding industry vendor posted something that was private to me on the internet. It caught me off guard because I expected this vendor to check with me first. But, I considered myself guilty too. I knew this person had a blog, so I should have told this person that the information I shared with her was private. I know better now. This incident got me to thinking: “What can a couple do to protect their privacy on the web whille planning their wedding?” I have listed some recommendations below.

Check the Model Release in Your Vendor Agreements

A couple of years ago, a make-up artist surprised a former client of mine. Why? Well, the make-up artists printed the bride’s photo on her business card. No one asked my former client if it was okay because the make-up artist purchased the picture from the photographer. Before you sign each wedding vendor agreement, review and discuss the model release. You want to be sure you understand how, when (and how often) your wedding images may be used. I bet you are wondering how the photographer could sell a picture of the bride to the make-artist. Right? Well, according to KODAK, “the laws say that the ‘author’ is the owner of the copyright.” “If a professional photographer took the photo for you, then they (or their employer) own the copyright.” If you don’t want the photographer to publish your images, have an honest conversation with your photographer (and all of your other wedding vendors) BEFORE you sign their contracts. You may come to an agreement that allows them to publish shots of the wedding decor only. Communication is important here.

Keep Your Last Name to Yourself

If a magazine or a blog or even one of your wedding vendors decides to showcase your wedding, ask them to avoid printing your last name. It’s not necessary to use your last name, and it helps you to maintain some of your privacy. While you are at it, don’t give out your address, telephone number, place of work or your social security number either.

Protect Your Primary E-Mail Address

Avoid using your primary e-mail address when you comment on blogs; post to public internet boards; or when you participate on social networking sites. Some of these sites may use your e-mail address as an identifier, which means spammers may easily discover your e-mail address if they hack the site. Instead, consider creating and using an e-mail account specifically-created for your wedding planning. Also, don’t use your first and last name in your wedding-specific e-mail address.

Check Privacy Policies on Web Sites and Blogs

I know, I know. Reading a privacy policy is like “watching paint dry.” But, I recommend that you find and read the privacy policies of the web site and blogs that you use. Why? You want to know what and how they are collecting your identifiable information. You also want to know how the site uses your personal identifiable information. And finally, you want to know what assurances you have that they are protecting your information.

Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi

When I need a break from my home office, I typically find myself working in a Panera Bread Cafes. I have a thing for their Fuji Apple Chicken Salad, and they have free access to wireless internet. If you use free Wi-Fi like me, I recommend that you avoid sending personal or confidential information. You will never know if the girl sitting at the table next to you could be there to monitor what you are doing.

Nothing Truly Leaves The Internet

I learned something from some of my very smart iWED friends. Information on the internet is never truly deleted. Apparently, a lot of internet services rely on numerous servers to ensure that internet files (accessed by millions) are easily available. So, you can go ahead and delete that angry comment you made about your maid-of-honor on Twitter. And guess what? That comment is probably still out there on a ghost site.

Final Thoughts

Always remember that you can utilize and enjoy the internet while you plan your wedding. But you should always be on guard of your privacy.

Love and Soul Always, Kawania

Photo: Shutterstock

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