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As a pet owner, your furry companions hold a special place in your hearts and lives, right?

So when it comes to your big day, it’s only natural to want them by your side as you celebrate one of the most important moments of your life. Including horses and dogs at weddings has become increasingly popular, whether it’s dogs walking down the aisle or horses making a grand entrance…

As a wedding photographer based in Shropshire, there is nothing I adore more than pets being a part of my couples’ weddings and it is always a pleasure to capture!

However, having four-legged guests of honour at your wedding requires some extra planning and preparation. In this blog post, I share my ideas for including pets at weddings, making it a truly unforgettable experience for all.

Including Pets at Weddings

• Considering Your Pet’s Personality
• Dogs as Ring Bearers or Flower Girls
• Horses for a Fairytale Entrance or Exit
• Involving Pets in Wedding Photos
• Providing for Your Pets’ Needs on the Day
• Remembering Pets in Your Wedding Favours or Decorations

Considering Your Pet’s Personality

Before you get carried away picturing your pet as part of your wedding day festivities, take a moment to think about their individual personality.

Let’s be honest, while a laid-back Labrador might revel in the hustle and bustle of a wedding, relishing in the extra cuddles and attention from your guests, a nervous feline may prefer the calm and quiet of home.

When it comes to pets at weddings it is all about assessing how your pet handles social situations and unfamiliar faces. If they’re the life and soul of the party, then by all means, let them join the fun.

However, if crowds aren’t their thing, it may be worth scheduling a bit of quality time with them before the celebrations kick off, or finding another special way to honour them.

Dogs as Ring Bearers or Flower Girls

There’s something uniquely charming about a well-dressed doggy taking centre stage at a wedding, don’t you think?

We’ve all seen those adorable wedding photos with dogs as ring bearers or flower girls, and it’s a trend that’s definitely sticking around. Picture your furry friend, trotting along the aisle with the wedding rings snugly attached to a specially designed cushion on their back.

Or perhaps, your beloved pet making a grand entrance, adorned with a beautiful flower garland. It certainly adds a touch of sweetness to the occasion.

But, don’t forget, it’s not just about the ‘aww’ factor. You need to take into account your dog’s temperament and their level of training. We certainly don’t want Fido running off mid-ceremony with the wedding rings in tow, do we?

So, ensure they are comfortable and well-trained to perform their duties.

Of course, with all eyes on them, they might just steal the limelight from the bride and groom. But then again, that’s part of the fun! After all, it’s a family affair, and our dogs are undeniably part of the family!

Horses for a Fairytale Entrance or Exit

Ever dreamt of that quintessential fairytale wedding?

Then look no further than your stable! Incorporating horses into your wedding day can add a magical, storybook quality. Imagine making your grand entrance on horseback, or perhaps leaving your ceremony in a classic horse-drawn carriage.

Pets at weddings can create a wonderfully memorable spectacle.

But don’t just trot off into the sunset without a bit of planning first. Consider your horse’s temperament and comfort – it’s important to make sure they’re at ease and familiar with what’s going on.

Also, be sure to check in with your wedding venue. Not every place can accommodate a horse or a carriage, and some may have specific rules or restrictions in place.

Another great option is to have a post-wedding photoshoot with your horse. This will be your chance to still capture those gorgeous portraits in your wedding attire if they aren’t at your actual wedding.

So if you’ve got a horse and want to add a touch of fairytale enchantment to your wedding, why not go for it? Just remember, as with any element of your wedding day, a little preparation and consideration can go a long way.

Involving Pets in Wedding Photos

Can’t imagine your big day without your four-legged companion, but are worried about them getting overwhelmed by the celebrations?

Why not include them in your photos instead? It’s a fab way to incorporate pets at weddings, without putting them in an uncomfortable situation.

Why not consider a pre-wedding photoshoot featuring your beloved pet? They could be striking a pose with you both in your save-the-date photos, creating a beautiful memento of your bond.

Alternatively, how about capturing some candid shots of you and your pet while you’re getting dolled up on your wedding morning? The anticipation, the excitement, the bond you share – it all makes for some really heartwarming pictures.

Of course, you’ll need to have a pet-friendly photographer, like me, who’s comfortable working with animals and can capture their unique personalities.

Don’t forget to have their favourite treats at hand to keep them focused and cooperative during the shoot!

Just remember, these photos are not just about looking picture-perfect. They’re about capturing the essence of your bond with your pet. So, don’t stress about making them sit still or pose perfectly. Let them be themselves and you’re sure to have some meaningful, and probably a few hilariously candid shots to treasure forever!

Providing for Your Pets’ Needs on the Day

So, you’ve decided to include your pets in your wedding, and you’re all set for a day of fun and furry shenanigans.

But here’s something vital to remember – amidst all the wedding madness, our four-legged friends need a bit of TLC too.

Think about it. All the excitement and attention, while fun, can also be a bit overwhelming for them. So, it’s important to make sure they have everything they need to stay comfortable.

Got a friend or a family member who’s a hit with your pet? Fab! Why not ask them to be your pet’s official minder for the day? They can be on top of feeding times, water breaks and, of course, the all-important toilet trips. Or hire a dog chauffeur!

And let’s not forget about the noise and commotion of the celebrations. Even the most sociable pets can sometimes need a bit of quiet time.

So, arrange a comfy, peaceful corner where your pet can take a breather when the excitement gets a bit much. They might not be the ones getting hitched, but they’ll also need a little respite from all the fuss, just like you. If you opt for a dog-friendly wedding venue they should be able to accommodate this for you!

Remember, happy pets at weddings mean a happy wedding day. After all, it’s not just about including your pets, it’s about making sure they enjoy the day as much as you do!

Remembering Pets in Your Wedding Favours or Decorations

Not sure about having your furry friend physically present at your wedding?

Don’t worry, you can still find creative ways to honour them on your special day. Why not incorporate their lovable likeness into your wedding favours or decorations?

Let’s think about this for a moment. Imagine giving out biscuits made with cutters shaped like your pet, or serving cocktails named after them. It’s a fun, playful way to make sure they’re part of the day without causing any stress for them.

You could even go a step further and use their adorable photos on your invitations, table cards or even your wedding cake. How about designing customised wedding favours that feature your pet? Maybe little keyrings or magnets with their picture on it?

Or perhaps a candle with their pawprint? It’s a sweet keepsake your guests can take home, reminding them not only of your wedding day but of your special four-legged family member as well.

But it’s not just about your guests. You and your partner can also hold onto these mementos long after the confetti has settled, serving as a lasting memory of your beloved pet’s presence on your big day.

So go on, have a think and get creative. There’s no limit to the fun and unique ways you can incorporate pets at weddings, even if they can’t be there in person!

Ready for a Paw-Some Wedding?

Now you have my ideas for including pets at weddings, you can go away and ensure that everyone you love will be involved in your wedding day!

If you are ready to enquire about your wedding photography in Shropshire or across the UK then get in touch with me today – I can’t wait to hear about your love story, all about your adorable pets and of course, capture your wedding day!