DOGS & WEDDINGS… THE PERFECT COMBINATION?
If you’re planning your wedding and wondering, “Can we include our dog in the big day?” — the answer is a big YES (with a few things to consider first!).
Over the years, I’ve seen some brilliant (and adorable) ways couples have included dogs at weddings, and I thought I’d pull together a few tips and advice to help with planning if you’re thinking of doing the same.
If you’re anything like me, your dog is more than just a pet. They’re part of the family, so it makes sense that you’d want them involved in your special celebrations in any way you can!
Should You Include Your Dog in Your Wedding?
Some dogs thrive being around lots of people. They love the fuss, the treats, and the general excitement. Others… not so much. And that’s okay!
Before you start planning, consider your dog’s personality. If your dog is likely to get overwhelmed by loud music, crowds, or long days, it might be best to include them in other ways (more on that below!). If your dog is confident and sociable, then bring on the bow tie and floral collar.
CHAT WITH YOUR VENUE
Not every venue or church allows dogs, so it’s always worth checking early on. Some of them are super dog-friendly and might even have water bowls or shady spots ready. Others have stricter policies regarding food being served, so make sure you check with them at your first meeting. There are some great links to dog-friendly wedding venues at the end of this article.
Get a ‘plus one’ for your dog
One of the best things you can do is ask someone (who isn’t in your wedding party) to be your dog’s handler for the day. It just means there’s always someone looking out for them, making sure they’re walked, watered, and whisked away for a nap if it all gets a bit much.
Great ways to include your dog in your wedding
Here are a few ideas I’ve seen over the years that work well:
Feature them in your décor. I’ve seen dogs on cake toppers, signage, cocktail menus, cardboard cut-outs… even table numbers. It’s a lovely way to include them if they can’t be there themselves.
Include your dog in the wedding ceremony. Well, why not walk down the aisle with them if you think they would be OK with it (either you or someone else can walk them in — they’ll make your entrance even more memorable).
Ring bearer or honorary flower pup (only if they’re chill and used to being around crowds). You can even get your florist to make up a special flower ring for their collar.
In your photographs, even if your doggie is not around all day, you can still have them join you for some portraits. Some couples even arrange for someone to bring their dog in just for this part.
The best thing to do is to have five minutes with them in a quieter place and enjoy their company. This will result in beautifully natural photographs of you all together.
What If Your Dog Stays at Home?
Let’s be honest, some dogs would rather be snoozing in their bed than navigating a busy wedding. That doesn’t mean they can’t be part of things:
Why not book a pre-wedding engagement shoot and bring your dog or dogs along? It’s the perfect chance to get some relaxed, natural photos of you together (plus they get all the attention, treats, and cuddles without the stress of the big day). Win-win.
Name a cocktail after them. Bonus points for a little illustrated drinks menu!
Use their face on your stationery (save the dates, invites, menus… go wild).
Have a little photo of them at the bar or on your welcome table.
“We knew we wanted our dog, Luna, to be part of our big day, and James was absolutely amazing with her! Not only did he capture the most beautiful moments of us as a family, but YOU CAN TELL HE REALLY loves dogs.
– BENJAMIN & JESSICA
A Few Practical Tips for Your Dog-Friendly Wedding
Bring some of their home comforts. A blanket, a favourite toy and don’t forget to pack the treats.
Ensure there’s shade, water, and a quiet place where you are getting married, especially for hot days.
Don’t expect perfection… dogs are going to do whatever they want. If they sit during the ceremony or decide to roll in the grass mid-photo… just go with it. It’s all part of your unique relationship.
Here are a few dog-friendly venues if you are just starting your wedding planning journey.
The Venue, Bowers Mill: https://thevenuebowersmill.co.uk
The Manor House, Lindley: https://www.manorhouselindley.co.uk/
Thicket Priory: https://thicketpriory.co.uk/
Bunny Hill Weddings: https://bunnyhillweddings.co.uk/
Lodge Farm Weddings: https://lodgefarmweddings.co.uk/
Including your dog in your wedding is a beautiful way to personalise the day and honour your bond. Whether they’re walking down the aisle, joining in for portraits, or simply represented in the details, there are so many ways to make them part of your wedding day.
Planning a dog-friendly wedding? I’m always happy to help with logistics (and I’ll 100% be the one giving your pup a fuss and a treat on the day too!). Let’s chat about how to capture those unforgettable moments with your furry family member.
Send me a message
If you want beautiful photographs of your wedding then send me a message and say ‘Hello’. I’d love to hear all about your plans so far.