My Best Friend’s Wedding: How to include your Dog in your Wedding Day:

Whether your loyal Golden Doodle, Lucy, has been with you since high school or you and your fiancé finally made the leap into rescuing your sweet Dachshund-Yorkie mix (or Dorkie as I lovingly refer to mine), Oliver, a year ago, they mean everything to you. You know that having them be a part of THE biggest day in your life, this far, is your dream.

Now, before you move forward blinded by puppy love, there are a few things to consider and plan out. Making your wedding day feel complete could come with some obstacles.

Let’s talk through some possible scenarios. Does Ralph your giant lovebug of a Pit Bull, get super excited and riled up with large crowds? Or would your old, walks-with-a-limp, overwhelmed by people Lhasa Apso, Cash, prefer to only be in your engagement photos and left home on your wedding day? What about the smartest, most playful rescue mix you have ever met, Piper, will she shine as your flower girl? The temperament of your best friend will make all the difference at your event. Since you know them best, they are counting on you to make the right choice for them.

Now that you have thought through both options of having them in the wedding or not, what is next? Well, they need a role. And I’m not talking about playing Alexander in the upcoming Broadway musical Hamilton! (Although, a pup can dream!)

Can’t you just imagine Bear, your gentle Chocolate Lab, being walked down the aisle wearing a handsome bowtie or Lola, your stubborn but sweet Dalmatian prancing down the aisle with a gorgeous floral crown? What role do you see fitting their spunky or shy personalities best? Ring bearer, flower girl, maid of honor, best man or perhaps as just a witness in the front row as a guest of honor.

Whichever role they play, the logistics of the day need to be sorted.

 

Here are a few key questions to ask while planning to include your dog in your wedding.

Does your venue allow pets?

If yes, are they allowed only for ceremony or for both ceremony + reception? If they are only allowed during ceremony does the venue offer an air-conditioned space to kennel your pet until the handler can take them home? (Please, make sure the pet is not locked inside a car because no arrangements were made to take them home!!!)

 

Who will be their handler or sitter for the day?

You will need one main person who has the availability for that day to bring them to the venue, take them out for walks, feed and give them water and then eventually take them home. This works best if the person in charge does not also have a major role in your wedding.

 

Is your pet good with children?

Do you have any guests afraid of dogs? (Make sure to give guests a heads up about princess Penelope’s appearance.)

Once, you have planned out all the details for your best friends’ debut at your wedding, you can think about all the fun extras! Like putting a Go-Pro on their collar to capture their point of view or having them groomed with a fun new style. They will love you regardless of your decision, that’s just what man’s best friend does.

 

To a night that lasts FOREVER!

Warmly, Emily
Co-Owner + Venue Coordinator of Forever 5 Events

 

 

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photo credit: Melanie Julian Photography