If you're tying the knot soon and want your pup to be a part of the festivities, we have some ideas for you to incorporate them physically (or in spirit)! If they're going to be present on the big day, check out our expert tips to make it go as smoothly as possible.
Ideas for Incorporation
- Have your pup walk down the aisle with a member of the wedding party, flower girl or ring bearer (or act as the flower girl or ring bearer!)
- Make your pup the 'Dog of Honor'
- Ask a friend or pet sitter stop by with your dog for a brief visit during the ceremony or reception for a couple photos
- Mention your pup in the ceremony
- Display photos with your dog throughout the venue
- Include your dog in engagement photos, save the date, invitation or wedding website
- Add them to a custom cake topper
- Name a cocktail after your dog
- Feature your dog on table numbers or place cards
- Bring your pup in for a few pictures while you're getting ready
- Give out dog-inspired wedding favors such as cookies that look like your dog
- Include a cut out of your pup as a photo booth prop
Tips for Dogs at Weddings
- Double check with your venue that dogs are allowed on-site
- Consider your pup's personality and whether a wedding with dozens, or hundreds, of guests is the right fit for them
- Give guests a heads up that a dog will be there in case of any allergies, children or other potential concerns
- Ensure your dog is kept on-leash if there's a chance they could escape
- Familiarize your pup with the venue in advance and spend time practicing whatever you want your dog to do on the day of
- Designate someone as the doggy chaperone throughout the event
- If dressing your pup up, ensure the attire doesn't constrict breathing or movement. A decorative leash is a good alternative!
- Make sure food and fresh water is available for your dog
- Double check that decorations, human food and alcohol is far out of reach
- Make sure your dog is well-exercised in the days leading up to the event so they aren't too energetic. A few days of day care at Camp Bow Wow will help wear your pup out the week of your wedding!
- If you decide that including your dog in your wedding day isn't the best option, give them a fun weekend of their own by bringing them to Camp for a boarding stay where they'll be in safe and loving hands