Written by Marc Robisch
Dogs truly are a man’s best friend. Who better to share your big day with then your dog? Dogs are always excited, and to say they will look adorable in a little groomsmen bow or flower crown is an understatement.
“A pet plays an important role in a couple’s life and for many pet parents, family festivities would not be complete without their pet’s involvement,” said John D’Ariano, President of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters. “As a result, it’s becoming more common for couples to customize their wedding parties to include family, friends, and furry companions.”
The folks at David Rothstein Music have created this list of ways to integrate your dog in your wedding:
1. Engagement photos:
Many couples have integrated their dogs in their engagement photos:
2. Save-the-date cards:
Announce the date of your wedding with a furry friend
3. Have your dog walk someone down the aisle:
Have an uneven amount of people in your wedding party? Have the dog walk down with somebody!
4. Dogs make for great groomsmen and bridesmaids:
Man’s best friend and the best man are the same thing
5. Take some fun portraits after the ceremony:
6. Have some fun dog decorations:
Not only can you have your dog in the wedding, but you can have a some canine inspired decorations too!
Dogs are fun to have a weddings, but there are some things to know beforehand:
- Make sure the venue allows pets
- With everything to do before your wedding, it’s easy to forget checking if the venue allows dogs. It would not be fun to bring your dog, then immediately be told it had to leave the grounds. If this is the case, don’t worry. You can incorporate your dog in the portraits after the ceremony.
- Know how your dog acts around people
- Sure, your dog is sweet around you and close friends, but your wedding will have several hundred people. People love dogs, so your pet will get a lot of attention. Just make sure all people won’t make your dog mean, uncomfortable or scared.
- Consider hiring a pet sitter
- It’s your wedding, and you do not want to spend most of the ceremony and reception making sure your dog is okay. Hire a pet sitter to watch your dog during the festivities. Let the sitter be responsible for bringing the dog to the venue, and returning it back home. Let’s face it, you will be super busy and occupied during your wedding, so let someone else take care of your pooch.
