How to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding
Possibly the biggest trend I saw in 2019 weddings was also the sweetest: having the bride and groom’s dog included in the wedding! This could mean a lot of different things depending on your type of pet, venue restrictions, etc but here are some ways to include your four-legged friend in the nuptials:
Best Dog / Dog of Honor
This was the most popular way we saw couples incorporating their pets into their wedding day. We had four weddings in which the bride and groom’s dog got dolled up, walked down the aisle and stood or sat at the altar.
Things to keep in mind: These weddings were all outdoors, pups were well-behaved, but EXCITED and there was a plan for who would take care of the animal before and after the ceremony. No dogs went to wedding receptions!
2. Just for Pics
Another great idea was see was for puppy to meet us out during the couple’s portrait session. This might be a better idea for dogs who may not do as well being in the spotlight for the entire ceremony, couples who want to still include their beloved furbaby without that bigger commitment and couples who have a church or indoor ceremony.
Things to keep in mind: Someone to bring puppy to meet up for photo session, are animals allowed at your photo location (in our case it was a public park), who will take care of puppy after we get the few photos of him that we need.
3. Getting Ready
This option probably make the most sense if you are getting ready at your own home. Having your four-legged friend around can be a reassuring stress-reducer and you can get some pics in together.
Keep in mind: If bride and groom are getting ready in separate locations, you will likely only be able to get pics of one with your fur baby.
4. Honorable Mentions in Vows or Toasts
An easier way to include your pet without having them at the festivities. Your fur child might be a big part of your relationship with your new spouse as he was the first being you both took care of together. Maybe fluffer was part of how you and your fiance got together in the first place.
5. Signature Drink with Signage
Another new popular trend we are 100% behind is naming your signature cocktail after your pet. Have a beautiful sign made to tell guests about your special drink including a custom rendering of your pet.
6. Custom Socks
Now we’re getting into the more unique ways to include your pet on your wedding day! Personalize socks for the groomsmen is a growing trend and often we’ll see socks with cats, dogs or whatever pet you like on them! It’s a subtle nod to your furry friend, but make sure your photog/videographer know and get a good shot!
7. Other
You can always include a photo of your pet on display at your reception.
We have seen an ice sculpture of a dog.
One groom gifted his bride with new dog tags for their puppy with their new married last name.
A couple times I have seen a custom photobooth prop with a cutout photo of a pet so that everyone can take a picture with your furry love!
Finally and most unique of all, we had a letter written by the couples’ dogs and cat (with help from groom) to their human mommy on her wedding day.
There are SO many ways to include your pet who means so much to you in your wedding day. Consider the specifics of your unique wedding day and what option will work best for you and your pup. Always remember to have someone nearby who can take care of the pet and bring him away when it’s time to get back to the party.