How to Include Your Pets in Your Wedding: Tips & Ideas

Having pets at weddings is becoming increasingly popular and why not? They’re part of the family! From adorable wedding outfits to flower collars, bow ties, and even tiny hats, pets are stealing the show on their owners’ big day. While dogs are the most common wedding guests, we've also seen cats, horses, llamas, and other beloved animals joining in the celebrations. If you’re considering including your furry (or feathery) friend, read on for important considerations and creative ways to make them part of your special day. You can also see lots more adorable pics on our Pets At Weddings Pinterest board. 

Should You Bring Your Pet To Your Wedding Day? 

What You Need To Consider

Including your pet in your wedding is a heartwarming idea, but it does require careful planning. Here are a few important factors to consider:

Venue Rules: Not all venues allow pets, so check their policies beforehand. If pets are allowed, ask about any restrictions regarding where they can go.

Your Pet’s Temperament: Consider whether your pet is comfortable in large crowds, noisy environments, and unfamiliar places. Some pets may feel anxious or overwhelmed.

Weather Conditions: If your wedding is outdoors, think about how the weather may affect your pet. Hot temperatures can be uncomfortable, and cold weather may require extra precautions.

Allergies and Guests’ Comfort: Some guests may have allergies or fears of animals, so it’s courteous to inform them ahead of time.

Pet Care: Assign a trusted friend, family member, or professional pet handler/chaperone to look after your pet during the event to ensure they’re comfortable and safe.

How to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding Day

Once you’ve considered the logistics, there are many fun and creative ways to include your pet in your special day:

Ring Bearer or Flower Pet: Have your pet walk down the aisle with a ring pillow or flowers attached to their collar.

Wedding Photos: Even if your pet isn’t present for the ceremony, including them in your couple portraits and wedding photos is a great way to capture memories.

Dressed for the Occasion: Dress your pet in a cute bowtie, floral collar, or even a custom outfit to match your wedding theme.

Special Entrance or Exit: Have your pet join you for a grand entrance or a special exit moment, adding a unique touch to your wedding day.

Signature Cocktail or Themed Decor: If your pet can’t be present, consider naming a signature cocktail after them or incorporating their likeness into wedding decor, such as on cake toppers, napkins or signage.

Live Stream or Virtual Appearance: If your venue doesn’t allow pets, consider a virtual appearance by having someone video call or stream them into your event.

Pet Cam: Attach a GoPro to your pet to have a wedding video filmed from their POV! This is a cute way to get videos of all your guests. 

Pets At Weddings Real Wedding Inspiration

Shustoke Barns Wedding

What made Jess & Tom’s day unique at Shustoke Barns, was making sure it felt authentic to them and the things they love. The couple did a lot of the decision-making and planning process together to make sure the day truly reflected them both so well! They also had a visit from their little sausage dog, Dexter, who stole the show and went around all of the guests for belly rubs (as he should!). With a modern classic vibe, minimalist decor and styling along with cute pics of their pet, this wedding is one we had to share.

Dreamy Italian Destination Wedding

Dominique & Robert’s wedding was nothing short of a five-day Italian extravaganza, stretching from the romantic streets of Florence to the rolling hills of Volterra. With friends and family jetting in from the US, UK, and Canada, the celebration was as international as it was unforgettable. Their rescue dog, Pierre, stole hearts as the dashing ring bearer – a feat made possible by the couple’s ambitious road trip from England to Italy (because, of course, Pierre deserved the grand entrance). Dominique added a sentimental touch by wearing her best friend’s wedding veil, while a UK drag queen turned up the party with a show-stopping performance.

Stylish London Trinity Buoy Wharf Wedding

Elle & Alex celebrated their love with a video game-inspired wedding at Trinity Buoy Wharf. The couple first moved in together just before lockdown, spending countless hours at home playing video games, which became their shared escape. On their wedding day, they chose to honour this special hobby and the city where they met. From a romantic ceremony to a drinks reception boat ride along the Thames and even a Game Boy seating chart, every detail was thoughtfully crafted by their incredible wedding planners. Elle & Alex wanted their guests to leave, thinking, “Wow, that was FUN!” Of course, their guest of honour was their pet dog, Thor!

Rustic Outdoor Wedding At Wilde Lodge

Jack & Daniel were destined to be together with those names! Jack & Daniel spent five whole days celebrating their wedding at Wilde Lodge in Wales. Keeping things intimate and personal was the theme of the wedding for this couple. A close friend conducted their ceremony, their fur baby was the ring bearer, the venue was decorated with meaningful photos, AND the couple got involved in some DIY. The whole 5 days were all about the details, and we have the absolute honour of sharing them all with you. 

Garden Party Wedding In Devon With Christian Blessing

A garden wedding in Devon, and this time with a cat in a hat! Yep, you heard me correctly. Groom Robin wore a fabulous Fedora hat, which he popped on his cat during the intimate photos. And, although this feline looked rather dapper, it certainly didn't detract from the bride's exquisite applique veil. Alice and Robin, we salute you for this intimate yet incredibly stylish celebration.

Surprise Wedding At Chelsea Old Town Hall

Kay and Charlie's pet dog was one of the only ones in on their surprise wedding. Joining them from beginning to end, as they walked to the town hall ceremony, and again at their pub reception. He followed the black-tie dress code beautifully, rocking a mini tuxedo and looking rather dapper with his humans also in a tux and off the shoulder wedding dress. It was so important to Kay and Charlie their dog could join them on their day and were so pleased to find a venue that was dog-friendly for their reception.

Church Wedding Ceremony And Colourful Sperry Tent Reception

Lottie and Lanto got married at the local parish, then headed back to mum and dads for a Sperry Tent reception. The colour palette consisted of cool blues and a pop of pink, with impressive floral arrangements, bouquets, and even a flower collar for Lottie's horse. They also had all their dogs running around in the gardens at the reception, which as animal lovers meant so much to them.

Outdoor Ceremony At Micklefield Hall With Two Brides

Whilst Natalie and Melissa's dachshunds brought the cute factor to their Michlefield Hall wedding in bow ties. Natalie and Melissa most definitely brought the wow factor in their complementing lace dresses. The vibe of the day was all about having fun and embracing the natural beauty the venue had to offer, and we can confidently say, they nailed it!

Multicultural Wedding with Nikah Ceremony

Whilst Irram and Daniel don't have any pets of their own, they did hire a petting zoo for their wedding. As Irram quite rightly says, and we concur - "Who doesn't want to pet cute fluffy friends on their wedding day? Kids and adults alike loved it." They seamlessly merged both of their cultures and passions resulting in an opulent yet classic wedding.

If your pet is of a nervous disposition, it might be best to keep their visit short and sweet and away from the crowd

Having pets at weddings sounds like a dream, but the logistics can be tricky. If you're wondering how to make it work, we've got you covered! Check out our guide to pet-friendly wedding venues to find the perfect location that welcomes your furry friend. Need outfit inspiration? Our article on dog wedding outfits has plenty of adorable ideas to dress your pet in style. With the right planning, you can create a wedding day that’s just as special for your pet as it is for you!