Last year, my fiancé and I adopted a dog.
And with the wedding planning back in full swing after a short hiatus, we soon began bouncing ideas around on how to include the not-so-little guy in our big day.
After all, he’s part of the family now – and a mini-tux would definitely suit him, I reckon.
In an ideal world, it would be easy enough to bring him into the celebration – but there’s a lot of things to consider first.
If, like us, you’re trying to figure out how to include your pet in your big day, here are five ideas you can try.
Your ceremony
Ring bearer, bridal party member, flower girl or just simply all-too-adorable guest – the possibilities are endless if you’re hoping to include your pet in your wedding ceremony.
And there’s even the emerging trend of puppy ‘bouquets’ to carry down the aisle (provided they’re small enough).
This is, of course, totally dependent on a number of factors – namely the location of your wedding, the wedding venue itself (are they pet-friendly?) and, of course, your pet.
Dogs are probably the easiest kind of pets to manage at a wedding, but it all depends on the personality of your pet.
After all, you may not want your pooch running off with one of the bridesmaid’s bouquets – or barking through your vows.
Your invitations or save the dates
Not every wedding is going to let your little guy or girl be there in person – so including them in the save-the-dates or the invitations themselves is a purr-fectly magical alternative.
If you’re doing a photoshoot, you will have some one-of-a-kind and aww-worthy shots – all taken in a relaxed atmosphere (which would be perfect if your pet is prone to nervousness).
Or you can go with an illustrator to create the perfect design to incorporate your four-legged friend into your big day.
Either way, it’s a super-sweet moment that includes your pet.
Your wedding photos
Your wedding photos will undoubtedly be chockablock with pictures of family, friends and – of course – you and your partner. But why not bring your pet into the photos, too?
There’s plenty of Pinterest-friendly photoshoot ideas that would let you include your pet in your big day, both pre-ceremony and post-ceremony.
If you’re getting ready with your bridesmaids, you can have your four-legged friend join you – and steal one last cuddle for good luck before you head down the aisle (after all, pets are known to soothe nerves).
Alternatively, a post-‘I do’ photo session with your beloved pet is the perfect way to celebrate – and
Your cocktails (and desserts)
If the venue you’re having your reception at has a strict no-pets policy, then you may be out of luck to have your pet there.
But, don’t worry, there’s always an alternative to make sure your four-legged friend is with you on the day – at least in spirit.
There’s the option to name a customised cocktail after your furry friend, which would be a nice addition to the already personal-touch (and you can get special-printed napkins with their face).
If you’re keen on the idea of cake toppers that resemble you and your partner, there’s also the option to get a pet-shaped addition to sit atop the sweet creation.
Or, if you’re doing a dessert table, you can always go with some cupcakes or cookies shaped after your pet.
Your wedding registry
A lot of couples go for a more traditional route with their wedding registry: things that they need for their home; things that they want for their home; things that they never would have thought of buying (but would definitely appreciate) for their home.
But there’s also been a huge increase in the number of couples who are suggesting donations to a charity of their choice instead – which, if you’ve adopted your four-legged friend, would be a lovely way to pay tribute to them (and help our some other pets).
