Are you thinking about including your dog at your wedding? We know that dogs truly are special family members. If you cannot imagine having your wedding day without your best furry friend by your side, you may want to consider it. Nowadays, there are many ways to incorporate your dog into your wedding. To help inspire ways to involve your fur baby in your special day, we’ve put together these tips.
The wedding party has been redefined
Including your pet in your wedding party remains a growing trend in the wedding world. More brides are choosing to designate a “dog of honor.” More grooms are choosing a “best dog.” In response to this doggy love, wedding venues are providing many ways to incorporate your pup, or other pets for that matter.
When trying to include your dog, first decide what he/she is capable of handling. Then, brainstorm about different ways they can participate. Prioritize these scenarios and have questions ready for your venue or hotel as part of your checklist.
EventUp venue, The Betsy in Miami, welcomes dogs of all sizes! Please contact the hotel for more information.
Four-legged wedding attendant
If you wish to have your dog at your ceremony, here are some great ways to incorporate them.
- Have him/her walk the bride down the aisle
- Stand or sit him/her with the groom
- Have a “Best Dog” or a “Dog of Honor”
- Be a ring bearer
- Be the flower dog
- Be a doggy greeter
Party Pooch
If you want to have your pup join you during the reception, here are some great ways to incorporate them.
- Invite him/her to the dancefloor for your first dance
- Have him/her stand with the best man or maid of honor for a toast
- Have him/her available for amazing photo ops
- Have him/her only come at the send-off as the designated dog driver
The Plaza hotel in New York, an EventUp venue, takes dogs of all sizes. Consider talking to them about holding your wedding ceremony here alongside your pup.
Dress for the occasion
Yes, your dog can look more the part. No matter what you choose, make sure your pup will tolerate wearing it by practicing beforehand. Also, make sure you don’t have your dog wearing things that he/she can chew or choke on.
- Have him/her cleaned and groomed before the big day
- Dress him/her in a special floral or greenery accessory
- Use a fancy collar and leash
- Add a bowtie or a floral bow
- Personalize a bandana that says “best dog,” “dog of honor,” or “I do too.”
For better or for worse
You should recognize that there are pros and cons to including your dog at your wedding. Make sure you remain flexible as to what actually happens. Your dog can be unpredictable, but sometimes this is what makes a cute memory. To make the most out of having your dog on your special day, use these tips for the most positive experience.
- Figure out the best way to incorporate your pooch by using his/her strength. Maybe your dog will walk well on a leash down the aisle. Or maybe you have an exceptional dog that can speak on command. By all means, incorporate him in your vows and have him speak his “I do!”
- If your dog tends to be anxious or not well-behaved, it may be best to leave him or her at home. You can still incorporate her into the day(see below).
- Likewise, if someone in your family, the wedding party, or your guests is allergic, it may be best not to have your dog at the actual event.
- If your dog is relatively well behaved, spend time in advance to brush up on any training commands you need. Your dog, at the very least, should know the basic "sit" and "stay."
- Hire a dog handler to help you with your pup. Designate this person to make sure your dog behaves and is well cared for, or to bring your dog home when the party amps up
- Consider the temperature. You particularly don’t want your dog to overheat on the big day.
- Think about having your wedding outdoors or a backyard wedding.
- Determine if any of the guests or wedding party are allergic to dogs. If so, think about alternate ways of adding your doggy into your day.
Incorporate your pup in a creative way
If your dog cannot make it to the big day, there are plenty of other ways to include him or her in a special way.
- Include your dog in engagement photos, getting-ready photos, or post-ceremony wedding portraits.
- Showcase a beautiful photo of the couple and the dog at the ceremony or reception.
- Include photos of your pet in your wedding decor or accessories somehow. For example (table number cards, drink stirrers, napkins, etc.).
- Create wedding favors in honor of your best pal, or do a donation to the shelter you got them as the favor.
- Name a cocktail after him/her.
- Incorporate into your cake like a hidden pup.
Questions to ask your dog-friendly venue
If you are thinking of including your doggy, make sure you research event venues or hotel options that are pet friendly.
- Do they have weight or breed restrictions?
- Is the dog allowed to attend the ceremony or reception or both?
- Do they have a safe outdoor potty area?
- Is there a quiet place for your dog to rest? (quiet for the dog and others)
- Will they supply things like dishes, beds, or toys?
- Can the dog stay unaccompanied or in a crate in the hotel room if applicable?
- Can the dog visit the space the day before getting used to it?
EventUp customer, The Ivy Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland, is a romantic place to get married, and they are dog friendly for up to 25 pounds. Call them for more information.
Final Woof
Check out EventUp to choose a dog-friendly venue or hotel for your wedding. Now it’s more feasible than ever to involve your beloved canine in your wedding plans. Here at EventUp, we love our pups too!