Ways to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding
One of the sweetest things about weddings today is having man’s (and woman’s) best friend be a part of the wedding day in some way, shape or form. Whether it’s a photo-op, walking down the aisle or including them in engagement photos, we love working with your furry friends. Mike Staff Productions photographers have massive amounts of experience working with pets, and will capture memories you’ll cherish forever.
Consider these ways of honoring your pets in your wedding day celebrations:
- Include them in your engagement photos
- Walk down the aisle together
- Pose for photos together
- Honor them as a Ring Bearer or Dog of Honor
- Have a specialty drink named after them
7 Things to Consider Before You Decide to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding
But before you have your pooch (or cat or horse, yes, we’ve seen that, too) be a part of your day, go over the best options! Bottom line: weddings can be stressful and overwhelming for a pet that does not adapt well to new environments or is uncomfortable around strangers. Since you know your pet best, here are few things to consider.
Can your pet handle the action?
Sociable pets, especially dogs that are outgoing and friendly, often cope better with the extra attention and the activity of the day. If your pet is shy and uncomfortable around people, it may be best not include them.
Check your venue’s policy.
Many have a strict no pet policy.
What role would your pet play at your wedding?
Whether she is the ring bearer or the hound of honor, start preparing early for the tasks your pet is going to do during the ceremony.
Ask someone to be your pet’s handler during the ceremony.
Assign someone you trust to be with your pet at all times throughout the ceremony. This will relieve any pressure you might feel to make sure that your pet behaves and is safe.
Rehearse with your pet.
Rehearse as much as you can with your pet before the big day and during your actual rehearsal, so your pet and their handler knows exactly what to do and when to do it.
Pamper your pet!
Book an appointment at the groomers so your pet looks and smells their best on the big day.
Pet Photo Op!
Make sure to snap some shots with your pets! Our professional wedding photographers love capturing that special bond between you and your pet.
Mike Staff is the founder and CEO of Mike Staff Productions, one of the most highly acclaimed wedding services companies in the country, providing award-winning Wedding DJs, Wedding Photographers, and Wedding Videography for over 25 years.
