You and your partner have decided to make it official, but you are pet parents, and you can’t envision the main event without your fur baby. Whether you have a specific role in mind, like ring bearer or flower girl, or just want to include your pet, you can do it with a little extra planning. We’ve got tips, tricks, and ideas to help you incorporate them while keeping them chill, collected, and feeling like their best selves.
Assess your pet
You are your snoot’s best friend and advocate. If you plan to include your dog in your wedding, temperament should be high on your list of considerations. If your pet is aggressive, timid, or a barker, excess stimulation during your ceremony will not be good. Your pooch must be able to remain calm and allow you and your partner to take center stage. Training experts recommend
that at the very least, a pet should be well-behaved, know some basic commands like sit and stay, and not be afraid of large groups. Not all pets will be suitable for the big day, and that’s ok. Celebrating the love and commitment you have with your partner is most important, and there are other ways to include your pup.
Consider how to include your bestie
- Roles in the ceremony: ring bearer, flower girl, best dog, or dog of honor — for the cool, calm, and collected pet. Do not attempt to train your dog for a specific task while planning your wedding, especially if you are not sure they are up to it. Your pet is sensitive to your energy, so make sure involving them is not stressful for you. Nominate a member of your wedding party, or another friend or family member to attend your pet during the ceremony, so you can focus on your love and your vows.
- Pet-friendly additions to the day: Couples may go on a “first walk” as a married pair with their doggo. This can present a great photo opportunity as well.
- Picture time — before or after the ceremony. Your pet will love to be a part of your wedding day photos, and outside shots are always pet-friendly.
- Mementos, favors, and décor: If your pet can’t physically participate in a manner that feels stress-free to you, think about ways to incorporate them that feel special. For instance, showcase your furry angel on custom pins for your groomsmen. Pair a personalized drink stirrer with a signature cocktail like The Salty Dog (recipe at the end), or feature your pet (or their breed), in the reception décor. Doggie bags, with favors for your guests, are a perfect way to cap the theme.
Plan with your pet in mind
It may seem obvious, but, if you intend to bring your favorite creature to your wedding, you need a pet-friendly venue. Check to be sure that animals are allowed on site, and if you have something other than a dog, be sure that the term “pet-friendly” also considers them. A fancy hotel may not be an option, so think twice about including your pet if a ballroom is your dream setting. If farmhouse or rustic factory chic is your style, finding a venue that accepts pets becomes exponentially easier, and outdoor weddings open a world of possibilities. In those spaces, your pet will be a perfect edition.
Clue in your vendors
Next up, inform your vendors that you will include Fido in your nuptials — everyone from your officiant, to your caterer, to your florist. Vendors should be prepared and not be caught off guard by a beastly presence. Also, a florist should not include plants that could be toxic to pets. Finally, it’s a great idea to let your guests know that your pet will be in attendance.
Prepare the pooch
Make an appointment with the groomer for one to two weeks before the big day to wash and cut your pet’s coat and trim their claws. Think about their “attire” and how it works into your theme and color scheme. Whether you choose a special collar, a bow tie, a satin sash, or something else, make sure your pet is comfortable. Put them in their “outfit” before the event, so they can get used to it. Introduce them to the venue and include them in prep visits and rehearsals, so they can feel calm and relaxed when the day comes.
Make arrangements for the big day
On the day of your wedding, your dog will need to be fed and walked a few times, cleaned up after, and generally attended to. Pick someone, (not you), who is familiar to your pet or consider hiring your regular sitter to attend the wedding. Make sure your chosen caregiver has ample bribes, snacks (today is not the day to withhold treats), and waste bags for your pup. Give them a list of the moments you expect your pet to join you and in what capacity. Let your wedding party know too, so they can keep an eye on your pooch and help if needed. This will ensure that there is always a friendly face and a familiar smell to keep your furry pal from feeling alone and getting rambunctious.
Finally, remember that pets have minds of their own and they don’t always behave like you envision. All plans are somewhat fluid on your wedding day, and your doggie’s plan will be no different. Embrace any minor chaos they may cause and see the humor in it. With a bit of planning, a chill attitude, and some Scooby snacks, your newlywed family will have memories of your special day to treasure for a lifetime.
The Salty Dog Recipe Ingredients:
● 1 1/2 ounces gin or vodka
● 3 ounces grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed
● Garnish: salt rim
● Garnish: grapefruit slice
Steps:
1. Wet the rim of a highball glass and dip it in coarse salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice, then add the gin (or vodka) and grapefruit juice and stir gently to combine.
3. Garnish with a grapefruit slice.
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