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Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments of your life, and it's only natural to want to share it with all the special members of your family—including your beloved dog. From walking down the aisle to being part of your reception, there are countless ways to make your dog a part of your celebration. However, involving your dog in your wedding requires careful planning to ensure everything goes smoothly. This guide will help you navigate the process, offering fun, unique, and practical tips on how to include your furry friend in your big day.
Before making any plans, it's essential to consider whether having your dog at the ceremony and reception is the best choice for both you and your pet. Here are some factors to think about:
Your Dog’s Personality: Not all dogs enjoy being in a crowd or in unfamiliar environments. If your dog is shy, anxious, or easily overwhelmed, it might be stressful for them to be part of the ceremony or reception. Consider their temperament and how they typically react to new situations.
Venue Rules: Before getting too excited about your dog’s role in your wedding, check with your venue. Some locations may have restrictions on pets, especially indoor or historic venues. It's crucial to ensure that your venue is dog-friendly and willing to accommodate your furry guest.
Guest Considerations: Remember that not all your guests may be comfortable around dogs. Allergies, fears, or cultural reasons might make some guests uneasy. It’s polite to inform your guests ahead of time if your dog will be present, allowing them to prepare accordingly.
Logistics and Supervision: Weddings can be chaotic, so plan who will be responsible for your dog throughout the day. Assign a trusted friend, family member, or professional pet handler to look after your dog, ensuring they have everything they need and are comfortable.
Once you've decided to include your dog, there are plenty of ways to incorporate them into your wedding day. Here are some fun and creative ideas:
Dog of Honour or Best Dog: Why not give your dog an official role in the ceremony? Whether as a “Dog of Honour” or “Best Dog,” your furry friend can accompany you down the aisle, stand by your side during the vows, or even carry the rings (securely fastened, of course!).
Flower Dog: If you have a flower girl, your dog can join in by carrying a basket of petals or wearing a floral collar. This can be a beautiful and memorable way to include them in the ceremony.
Ring Bearer: For smaller dogs, consider having them as the ring bearer. Attach the rings securely to a special collar or a small cushion they can carry. Just be sure the rings are secure and that someone is responsible for helping your dog deliver them on time!
Paw-print Guestbook: Create a unique guestbook by having your dog’s paw prints alongside your guests' signatures. You can prepare a special ink pad that's safe for pets, and your dog can “sign” the book along with your guests.
Dog-Themed Décor: Even if your dog isn’t physically present, you can include them in the theme. Consider using dog-themed table names, a cake topper featuring your dog, or custom signage with their silhouette.
Wedding Photos: Including your dog in your wedding photos is a must. Work with your photographer to capture some candid and posed shots. A few well-timed treats or a favourite toy can help get their attention. Be sure to schedule some quiet time away from the crowd for these photos, where your dog will feel more relaxed.
One of the biggest challenges can be finding a venue that welcomes your dog. Fortunately, the UK has a growing number of dog-friendly wedding venues. Here’s how to find the perfect spot:
Do Your Research: Use websites like Hitched.co.uk or Bridebook.co.uk, which often have filters to search for dog-friendly venues. Look for reviews from other couples who included their pets to get a sense of the venue’s flexibility.
Visit the Venue: Once you’ve shortlisted some options, visit them with your dog if possible. This will give you a good idea of how they might behave in the space and whether the venue is a good fit.
Ask the Right Questions: When discussing options with the venue, ask about any restrictions, such as areas where dogs are not allowed or noise regulations that might be stressful for your pet.
Consider Outdoor Spaces: Venues with large outdoor areas are often more accommodating for dogs, providing plenty of space for them to relax and explore without feeling overwhelmed.
Your wedding photos will be cherished memories, so including your dog in them is a wonderful idea. Here’s how to get the best shots:
Timing is Everything: Plan your photoshoot at a time when your dog is likely to be calm, perhaps after they’ve had a walk or some playtime. This will help them relax and be more cooperative.
Bring a Handler: Have someone your dog trusts to help during the photoshoot. They can hold treats, toys, or even stand behind the camera to get your dog’s attention.
Keep it Natural: Candid shots of you interacting with your dog often turn out the best. Play, cuddle, or just enjoy a quiet moment together, and let the photographer capture the magic.
Have Fun with Props: Consider using wedding-themed props for your dog, like a bow tie, floral collar, or a sign that says “Dog of Honour.” Just make sure your dog is comfortable with anything they wear.
If your venue doesn’t allow dogs or if it’s not feasible to have them present, you can still honour them in meaningful ways:
Pre-Wedding Photos: Arrange for a special photoshoot with your dog before the wedding day. These photos can be displayed at the reception or included in your wedding album.
Personalised Accessories: Incorporate your dog into your attire or accessories, such as custom cufflinks, a locket with their photo, or a charm on your bouquet.
Video Messages: If your dog is staying with a friend or family member, consider recording a short video message with them that can be played during the reception.
Donations in Their Honour: As a tribute to your dog, make a donation to a local animal shelter or charity in their name as part of your wedding favours. National Charities could include: Dogs Trust, Blue Cross, RSPCA, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Including your dog in your wedding can add a personal and heartfelt touch to your celebration. With thoughtful planning and creativity, your furry friend can be a memorable part of your big day, whether they’re walking down the aisle with you or being honoured in spirit. Remember, the key is to ensure your dog is comfortable and happy throughout the day, so both you and your pet can enjoy this special moment together.
For more inspiration and practical advice, explore reputable UK wedding websites like Hitched.co.uk and RockMyWedding.co.uk, which offer tips and real-life examples of couples who included their pets in their big day. With a little planning, your wedding will be a day to remember for you, your partner, and your beloved dog.
