Your wedding day is one of life’s most special occasions, and for many pet owners, their furry friends are cherished family members. So, why not include them in your big day? There are many creative ways to include your pet in your wedding, even if they can’t be there in person. Whether you bring them along for portraits or use your décor to pay homage to them, you’ll add an extra layer of love and joy to the occasion. Here’s how to make your four-legged friend a part of your wedding celebration!
How to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding
Include a photo or illustration of them on your Save the Dates.
As a wedding invitation design studio, we love this idea! We designed this invitation suite for a sweet couple with a photo of their beloved pup. Their furry friend wore the most adorable wooden sign hand-lettered with their wedding date! It was the perfect announcement for their family. It is also a great option if you know your pet can’t be at the wedding, since they can still be part of your announcement.
Make them the Ring Bearer or Flower Pup.
Your pet can fill one of the most important roles of your ceremony as your ring bearer or flower pup! You can even dress them to match your wedding theme. If they are not comfortable in outfits, you can have a flower crown or custom collar and leash made in your colors. However, ensure you have a trusted friend or family member who can walk them down the aisle. If not, consider hiring a professional pet handler. This way, you don’t have to worry about taking care of them during the ceremony.
Photo Credit: Neubek Photographers
Include them in your wedding party.
Alternatively, you can include your pet in your wedding party. They can stand beside you during your ceremony as a bridesmaid or groomsman, complete with an on-theme outfit or accessory! Again, remember to designate someone to care for them throughout the event. A dog sitter is a great idea to have on-site so that they can take the dog home after the ceremony or cocktail hour. While you may want them there all night, most dogs will get restless after a few hours surrounded by so many people! So having someone there to take care of them will make sure the evening is stress-free for your furry friend.
Photo Credit: Neubek Photographers
Bring them along for your engagement photoshoot.
Your pet is like a family member, so what better way to announce your engagement? We recommend choosing a photographer with experience shooting pets. If you’d like, you can even put a fun outfit on your four-legged friend, like this My Humans Are Getting Married Bandana. This is also a great alternative if you know your pet might be too anxious to be around a large crowd on your wedding day. We also recommend having a pet sitter or close friend there during your engagement session to watch your pet in-between pictures.
Incorporate pet-inspired décor into your special day.
There are endless ways to incorporate your pet into your wedding décor, especially if your venue won’t allow them onsite. Consider ordering a custom cake topper or commissioning an illustration of your pet to put on your signage, cocktail napkins, and favors. If you want to go one step further and plan a dog-themed wedding, you can create table names or escort cards inspired by different breeds! We also love custom drink stirrers since they can add a special touch to your bar.
Create a signature cocktail inspired by them.
Another fun way to incorporate your pet into your celebration is with a custom cocktail or mocktail. You can name the drink after your pet or even choose a flavor inspired by their favorite treats (peanut butter whiskey, anyone?).
Give out pet-safe treats or favors.
If your guests are pet owners, consider handing out pet-safe treats or favors they can take home to their furry friends. This thoughtful gesture will add a touch of warmth and inclusivity to your wedding celebration! If you also have guests who aren’t animal people, we recommend giving out a second, human-friendly set of favors so each person can choose what they want to take home.
Include them in photos from your wedding day.
We love this idea, especially if your pet will be around for the entire celebration, not just the ceremony or portraits! Ask your photographer to capture candid moments with your pet throughout the day. These photos will be cherished keepsakes that immortalize the bond between you and your beloved four-legged friend.
Remember, to include your pet in your wedding, it’s crucial to consider their comfort and well-being first. While it’s fun to involve them in the celebration, be mindful of their temperament and limitations to ensure their experience is a positive one. With careful planning and creativity, you can create a day that celebrates the love between you and your partner and the special bond you share with your pet.
Design Custom Pet-Themed Wedding Stationery
If you want to create a pet-themed wedding invitation or save-the-date card, you’ve come to the right place! We would love to assist you with designing custom stationery that features your furry best friend. Reach out to get started! We can’t wait to hear your vision (and see photos of your sweet pup!).
