Calling all dog owners! We know there are dog lovers and then there are DOG LOVERS. If you are the latter, you are probably already working on a plan to include your dog in your wedding. Sharon has Yorkies and I have German Shepherds and while there is a HUGE difference in size (yup… 105 pound difference between Jezebel and Vader above), one thing is certain, we both love our fur-babies and we know you do too! So how do you include your little buddy without your event ending up like a music video for “Who let the dogs out”?
If your pooch is really well-behaved (or very portable), you certainly could put a cute collar, leash, bow, or bow-tie on them and include them in the procession down the aisle. Cautionary word here… weddings can be a bit overwhelming for the 2-legged participants so expect that our very sensitive canine companions can certainly pick up on the increased energy. This means that your perfect angel could become anxious amongst so many new and exciting happenings. If your heart is set on including them in the processional or ceremony (and your venue is okay with that), appoint someone Fido knows to be in charge of their care during the ceremony. You are going to already have your hands full (rings and flowers, ya know)! Also have a plan for what happens to them after the ceremony, during the reception, and even in the event they need a time-out. This may be as easy as a kennel in a quiet corner of the venue but is certainly something you will need to have already planned for. While considering the practical, remember to work out the need for water and potty breaks.
Now that the very obvious is out of the way, let’s think up some other creative ways to include them!
We love the idea of including your fur-baby in your engagement photo session! Engagement sessions are all about telling your story in fun and creative ways and how wonderful that will be if you include the other member of your family. With so many charming ways to include your pooch into your photos, this option is a winner especially if you use the photos on your save-the-date cards!
Have a shy or reactive dog (I have one that we rescued), have a not-so-pet-friendly venue, or planning a destination wedding? In these cases, an in-person appearance probably isn’t going to work. No worries! There are many ways that you can include your buddy without them actually participating.
- Use a photo you already have to turn into custom art for save-the-dates, invitations, announcements, place cards, table numbers, labels for favors, etc.
- If you have a wedding website, include photos of your pooch and be sure to include them in your story.
- Include framed photos of your new family (2-legged and 4-legged) around the venue for a personal touch.
- Create a short video of the two of you and include your fur-baby to play in a loop during your cocktail hour.
- Create a custom dog-inspired cocktail to serve.
- Add some fun little paw prints to your wedding cake or include a likeness in a custom cake topper.
- Tuck an existing photo of Fido into your bouquet.
- Find a pretty pooch charm to wear on a bracelet or necklace (we love Pandora charms).
- Find canine-themed cuff links for your guy.
- Ask guests to contribute to your favorite canine rescue group in lieu of a gift to you.
- Feature your engagement & Fido photos in your guest book.
With so many charming ways to include your pooch on your big day, we know you will find the one that is right for you. We look forward to seeing (and photographing) your amazing stories!
Happy Planning,
Elegante Light Photography
Visit our Pinterest site for more creative ideas or schedule a consultation with us to help create you special day.