Including Your Beloved Pets in Your Wedding Celebration
As a pet owner, it’s natural to want your furry friends to be a part of your special day – your wedding. A couple in Victoria, four years ago, made headlines with their pet-friendly wedding that spoke to everything they loved. If you’re a pet owner, you can understand why couples feel a strong pull to include their fur babies in the festivities.
Why Include Your Pets in Your Wedding?
After all, pets are as much a part of the family as anyone else. It’s only natural that you would want them to be part of one of the most important days of your life – your wedding. However, there are some valid reasons why you might decide that leaving your pet at home or in the loving care of a pet sitter is a better option.
30 Creative Ideas to Incorporate Your Pets into Your Wedding
Whether you’re including your pet in the ceremony or not, here are 30 creative ideas to help you incorporate your beloved pets into your special day.
Including Pets in the Ceremony
- Why not let your pet carry the rings down the aisle? Secure the rings to a small pillow or a custom-made harness and have them trot down to the altar.
- Have your pet walk you down the aisle. This is perfect for those who consider their pets as a member of the family, or don’t have family around to fill the role.
- Let your pet carry or wear flowers. Adorn them with a floral collar or leash, or have them walk alongside your flower girl.
- Have your pet lead the wedding procession. It’s a great way to make an entrance and show off your pet to all your guests.
- Include a pet-friendly element into your ceremony, such as a special blessing or a mention in your vows.
- Have your pet by your side while you exchange vows. This can add a personal touch to your ceremony.
Incorporating Pets into Wedding Stationery and Decor
- Include a paw print stamp, illustration, or photo of your pet on your wedding invitations. It’s a cute way to hint that your pet will be part of the ceremony.
- Incorporate your pet into your wedding decor. Use their likeness in table numbers, signage, or even on the napkins.
- Use framed photos or illustrations of your pet as table centrepieces.
- Attach a small charm or photo of your pet to your bouquet or boutonniere. It’s a subtle but meaningful way to keep them close.
Pet-Friendly Wedding Favors and Activities
- Give your guests pet-themed wedding favours, such as custom cookies shaped like your pet, or donation cards stating a contribution was made to an animal charity in their honour.
- Create a signature drink named after your pet. Display a cute sign at the bar with their photo and the drink recipe.
- Set up a video booth where guests can record messages and interact with your pet. It’ll create fun memories for everyone involved.
- Include pet-themed props in your photo booth. Guests will have fun posing with ears, noses, and tails!
Logistics and Planning
- Choose a venue that is okay with animals so your pet can be present throughout the celebration.
- Hire a professional pet sitter like Mrs Barker’s Pet Services to ensure your pet is well taken care of during the ceremony and reception.
- Set up a pet-safe zone at your venue where your pet can relax away from the crowd. Include their favourite toys, bedding, and water.
Creative Ideas for Pets Not Attending the Wedding
- Record a cute video message from your pet to be played during the reception.
- Create a tribute table with photos and memorabilia of your pet, especially if they can’t be there in person. It’s a heartfelt way to honour their place in your life.
- Use a large canvas and have your pet’s paw prints as part of your guest book. Guests can add their own prints or signatures around it.
Tips and Inspiration
Whether your pet is walking you down the aisle, appearing on your invitations, or simply being part of the celebration in spirit, their presence is sure to bring smiles and joy to everyone involved. We’ve brought together advice, articles, and inspiration on our Advice Ideas blog to help you find your feet.
By incorporating your pet into your wedding, you can make your day even more special and memorable. These 30 ideas offer a range of ways to honour your furry, feathered, or scaled friend on your big day, ensuring they’re a cherished part of your wedding memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why should I include my pet in my wedding?
Including your pet can make your day more special and memorable as they are part of your family.
Q: What are some creative ways to incorporate my pet into my wedding ceremony?
You can have your pet carry the rings, walk you down the aisle, lead the wedding procession, or be by your side during vows.
Q: How can I include my pet in my wedding stationery and decor?
You can include a paw print stamp or photo on your invitations, incorporate your pet into table numbers and signage, or use framed photos as centrepieces.
Q: What are some pet-friendly wedding favor ideas?
You can give custom cookies shaped like your pet or donation cards to an animal charity in their honour.
Q: How can I ensure my pet’s comfort during the wedding?
Choose a pet-friendly venue, hire a professional pet sitter, and set up a pet-safe zone with their favourite toys and bedding.
Q: What if my pet can’t attend the wedding?
You can record a video message, create a tribute table with photos, or use your pet’s paw prints as part of your guest book.