Congratulations! You've found the one, and it's time to begin planning the big day. Many couples' special day isn't complete without their beloved four-legged friends. As much as our canine companions are a part of the family, there are some important things to consider when it comes to including your pup on your special day. Here are some tips and ideas for ensuring your pup is the star of the show on your special day.
It's important to think about what your pup will enjoy, as well as what will make your special day as stress-free and enjoyable as possible for everyone.
Planning for Your Dog on Your Special Day
When it comes to planning for your pup's involvement in your special day, you should consider the following:
- What role do you want your pup to play? Will they be a part of the ceremony, a ring bearer, or a guest of honour?
- Where will your pup be during the ceremony and reception?
- What type of outfit will your pup wear?
- Who will care for your pup during the event?
- What type of training is necessary to ensure a stress-free day?
These are all critical questions to consider when planning for your pup's involvement in your special day.
Choosing the Perfect Outfit for Your Dog
One of the most important things to consider when including your pup on your special day is what they will wear. When it comes to selecting an outfit for your pup, the options are endless. From classic tuxedos to traditional wedding gowns, you can find an outfit that matches your wedding aesthetic. There are even custom-made outfits to fit your pup's unique size and shape.
If you're looking for a more casual look, there are plenty of options for that as well. From custom-made bandanas to flower collars, you can find an outfit to suit your pup's personality. Whatever you choose, make sure it's comfortable and easy to move around in. Remember that your pup may get hot during the event, and you don't want them to be uncomfortable.
Dog-Friendly Venues & Reception Ideas
When it comes to venues, you'll want to find one that is both dog-friendly and accommodating. Many venues are now offering dog-friendly packages, which include accommodations for your pup. From special seating areas to designated areas for your pup to roam and explore, you can find a venue that will make your pup feel welcomed and comfortable.
When it comes to reception ideas, you'll want to think outside the box. For example, you can set up a doggie buffet with healthy treats and snacks for your pup and their guests. You can also provide special water bowls for your pup and its four-legged friends. These ideas will help make sure your pup is the centre of attention at your wedding reception.
I have a great selection of venue reviews here on my Cornish wedding blog; many of them are dog friendly and will be happy to welcome you. I also have a great article on picking a cornish wedding venue.
Creative Ways to Include Your Dog in the Ceremony
When it comes to the wedding ceremony, there are many creative ways to include your pup. From having them walk down the aisle with the bridal party to having them stand with the couple during the vows, there are plenty of ways to make your pup part of the ceremony. You can even have your pup be the one to deliver the rings during the ceremony.
Whatever you decide, make sure your pup is comfortable and stress-free during the ceremony.
Ideas for Dog Ring Bearers
If you're looking for a unique way to have your pup involved in your ceremony, consider having them be the ring bearer. You can have them walk down the aisle with your bridal party. You can also have them carry the rings in a bag around their neck or bring them to the couple during the ceremony.
Training Tips to Ensure a Stress-Free Day
When training your pup to be a ring bearer, you'll want to start early. You'll want to make sure they're comfortable with walking down the aisle and being in a crowded space. It's also important to make sure they're comfortable with the rings and the pillow or box they'll be carrying. With a few weeks of practice, your pup will be ready to take on the task of ring bearer on your special day.
You'll also want to make sure your pup is comfortable with the people they'll be interacting with, such as the bridal party and guests.
Professional Pet Care During Your Special Day
My couples often hire someone to take care of their dog from the evening before the wedding, bringing them to the venue just before the ceremony and collecting them afterwards. The dog sitter will then usually take them for a walk, feed them and take care of them while the couple enjoys the rest of their day, either bringing them back in the evening or the next morning. Having someone dog sit from the night before ensures one less logistic to consider on the morning of your wedding. If you have your hair and makeup done in your home, some dogs might not be happy to be around so many strangers in their personal space.
It helps to meet your dog sitter in the run-up to your wedding for your pup to get used to them. You might even consider having them take them out a few times, so your dog knows to associate them with fun walks and attention.
By far, the most popular and well-regarded specialist in wedding day dog care in Cornwall is the aptly named Wedding Day Dog Nanny. They are a professional, award-winning, fully licenced and insured dog-sitting team based in Cornwall. Wedding Day Dog Nanny is devoted to making sure your furry friend can be part of the celebration. They look after them at the venue, so you and your guests can enjoy the ceremony and photos without worrying about your pet being stressed, hungry or lonely. The Wedding Day Dog Nanny covers the wedding day and evening at your venue, hotel or holiday home. This means you are able to visit your pooch throughout the day, and they chaperone during the ceremony and photos and can be ready for when the dog is needed throughout the day.
Creative Dog-Themed Photo Ideas
One of the best parts of including your pup in your special day is capturing the memories with photos. There are many creative ways to get pictures of your pup on your special day. From unique dog-themed photo booths to candid shots of your dog and the wedding guests, there are plenty of options for getting beautiful photos of your pup on your special day.
If you're looking for something unique, consider having them be part of your couples' photos; as a professional wedding photographer, this is something I have done many times, and it always makes for some amazing photos. This is a great way to capture you and your pup's personality and ensure you have beautiful photos you can cherish for years to come.
Tips for your Photographer & Videographer
When it comes to capturing photos and videos of your pup on your special day, it's important to make sure the photographer and videographer are prepared. Before the event, talk to them about your dog and the kinds of photos and videos you'd like to have taken.
It's also essential to make sure the photographers and videographers are comfortable with your furry friend. Ensure they know the proper way to interact with them, what they like and don't like, and how to ensure they're comfortable during the photo and video session. This will help ensure the photos and videos capture your dog in the best light.
Conclusion
Including your pup in your special day is a great way to make your day even more special. From choosing the perfect outfit to finding a dog-friendly venue to creative ways to include your pup in the ceremony, there are plenty of ways to ensure your pup is part of the celebration. With some planning and creative ideas, you can make sure your pup is the star of the show on your special day.
So go unleash the love and include your pup in your special day. With some preparation, your dog will be ready for their starring role on your special day.
As a professional Cornish wedding photographer, I have incorporated a variety of animals in photos over the years, and it always makes for some fantastic images. It also helps that I am a massive dog lover and will always ensure your pooch is treated as one of the family. Click here to find out how I can capture the memories of your day for you, your fiance and your four-legged companion.
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Professional, Fun and Relaxed Wedding Photography
My name is Steven! I'm a full-time documentary wedding photographer from Cornwall. I specialise in relaxed and unposed photography, capturing the moments of your day as they happen.
I love what I do, and I always have fun doing it. If you are looking for someone to capture every moment, create beautiful lasting memories, someone who will laugh with your guests, talk to the kids, pet all the dogs and get stuck into almost any task on the day, then I am the person for you!
