The top-level domain (TLD) .wedding is a sponsored top-level domain (sTLD) in the Domain Name System of the Internet. TLDs are the highest level of domain names in the non-restrictive category, meaning they are available to registrants worldwide. The sTLD .wedding, registered by global domain name registry, Mind and Machines, specifically targets the wedding industry, from businesses and professionals to individuals planning a wedding.
The .wedding TLD was launched in 2015 as part of ICANN’s new gTLD Program. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is an international organization that maintains the DNS system. Its new gTLD Program was implemented to enhance competition, consumer choice, and innovation in the domain name market. In line with this, the .wedding domain gives businesses and individuals in the wedding industry a broader choice for domain names, enabling them to create a digital presence that is tailored to their specific wedding-related products, services, or content. (source: ICANN, 2015)
The .wedding domain can be used by a wide range of entities within the wedding industry, for diverse purposes. For instance, a wedding planner could utilise a .wedding domain to create a professional website to showcase their services, portfolio, and testimonials, such as ‘AmysWeddingPlanner.wedding’. Similarly, a retailer may use it for a specialized bridal store, such as ‘UniqueBridalGowns.wedding’, creating a clear, memorable web address that directly communicates the nature of their business. (source: Minds and Machines, 2015)
Furthermore, .wedding domains are also open for personal use. An engaged couple can establish a website to update their friends and family on wedding plans, share photos, or even manage RSVPs, using a personalized web address like ‘JackandJill.wedding’. Therefore, the .wedding domain provides a purposeful internet space for both businesses and individuals connected with weddings.
Notably, the registry for the .wedding domain, Minds and Machines, has partnered with various registrar companies globally, allowing the .wedding domain to be registered in many different countries. Domains registered in this TLD follow the same standard DNS protocol as other gTLDs. That means important security standards such as DNSSEC are supported. (source: Minds and Machines, 2015)
However, as with any domain registration, it is important to bear in mind potential trademark issues. The registration of .wedding domains is subject to ICANN’s trademark policies to protect brands and intellectual property rights.
In conclusion, the .wedding top-level domain is a valuable digital asset for businesses, professionals, and individuals in the wedding industry, offering a unique and specific domain name for creating a distinctive online presence.
References:
1. ICANN. (2015). New gTLD Program. Retrieved from https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/about/program
2. Minds and Machines. (2015). .WEDDING Domain Name. Retrieved from https://www.mindsandmachines.com/our-tlds/wedding/
