Photo by CORNELIA ZAISS PHOTOGRAPHY
Ever since the “wedding pet care” industry took off in 2015, more & more couples are choosing to include their pets in their wedding.
When done right, it can bring so much pawsitivity to your wedding day.
The key to a pawsitive experience is to plan your pet friendly wedding ahead of time.
Here are some of our top tips when it comes to including your pet in your wedding:
Check With Your Venue
Before you start planning anything, be sure to check on your venue’s pet restrictions. Even if they are not typically pet friendly, they may be willing to make an exception for you. They may ask that you carry pet liability insurance. If you cannot have your dog at your venue, consider planning a photo op at a different location or have them come by while you’re still getting ready for some lovin’.
2. Inform Your Vendors
Aside from your venue, informing your other vendors that your dog will be attending is very important. They are there to ensure your day goes seamlessly so you want to avoid any surprises on the day of! Incorporate their arrival & departure into your timeline so everyone is on the same page.
If you’re looking for pet friendly vendor recommendations, check out our FairyTail Approved Vendors!
3. Consider Your Pet’s Role
Another crucial step to ensuring things go smoothly is to consider your pet’s personality & temperament before choosing their role in the day. A ceremony may be too overwhelming for certain dogs and a high energy dog may need lots of exercise before they’ll be up for any photos.
Photo by Kelsey Cole Photography
4. Consider Your Guest List
Your dog’s presence could provide great entertainment for your guests as they await the start of the ceremony or reception, but consider your entire guest list beforehand. Are there allergies to consider or is anyone especially fearful of dogs? Planning for this ahead of time can ensure everyone feels welcome on your special day.
5. Puppy Preparedness
Don’t forget your pup’s essentials for wedding day! This doesn’t just mean their outfits either. Be sure they have access to water & meals throughout the day. Consider designating someone for doggie clean up, which for some will include poop bags, lint rollers & puppy wipes.
Photo by tara koenke photography
6. Plan Photo Ops
Discuss with your photographer which photos you’d like with your dog on your wedding day. Maybe you want to ensure you get a solo shot of them or a certain pose. Keep in mind any props such as attire, a special dog tag or sign you many want to use. One photo we recommend you don’t forget is a family photo post-ceremony!
7. Hire Professional Pet Care
If you want to guarantee that you AND your dog will have the best day ever, consider hiring a wedding pet attendant. Their sole focus will be on your dog’s care & it will give you peace of mind to know all of their needs are being met. It’s also the best way to ensure you get those picture paw-fect photos without any chaos!
Photo by Autumn Nicole Imagery
