Are you about to say ‘I do’? Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life and so you want those closest to be involved. For many couples, you choose these people to be in your bridal party. But, what about man’s true best friend - their dog. Your dogs are part of the family as well - so, why not include them too?
Not sure how? Here are some creative ways to include your dog on your wedding day to ensure it is absolutely pawfect...
Ring bearer
If you want your dog to have a starring role in your wedding day then what could be cuter than them being the ring bearer. Picture this: your pooch is wearing a cute floral collar and lead - your ring hanging from it. They walk down the aisle towards you and you remove it before placing it on your partner’s finger. Although, you might want to pick someone to hold the lead or who knows where your ring could end up.
Bring them in for the photoshoot
It might not be practical for your dog to be there for the whole day but you could organise for someone to bring them to be in the photos. A super cute addition to those wedding snaps that you’ll treasure forever.
Feature them on the cake
What about turning your dog into a cake topper? They can sit alongside the two of you in pride of place atop your wedding cake or it may just be them on their own. If you want this to be a little more subtle, how about them poking out at the base of the cake?
Get a cardboard cut-out
If you can’t have them physically there on the day, why not take your favourite photo and have it made into a lifesize cardboard cut-out. They may not actually be there but it will feel like they are. Are you having a photo booth at your wedding? This would make a great prop and ensure your dog features in lots of photos. You can imagine by the end of the night you’ll see his or her head bobbing up and down on the dancefloor as one guest decides to take it for a boogie.
Include them on place names or table numbers
You need something to show people which table and also which seat they will be sitting at. What could be cuter than featuring your dog on the table number or each name? This could be a selection of funny photos or you may want to commission an artist to draw this up for you. Choose the latter and you can be as creative with it as you wish.
Put that illustration on other stationery
Get that illustration created of your dog and there are plenty of ways this can be used in your wedding, from the ‘Save the Dates’ to the cocktail menu sign on the day. Hire an illustrator to re-create your four-legged friend and this can be used on one - or several different wedding items. We love this Change the Date card by Hey Draw Me.
Hang photos around the venue
Photos are a great way to decorate the venue. Why not use an instant camera to get some cute snaps of your pooch and then string them together to hang on the walls or on the front of the tables. It’ll be a great talking point and break the ice as guests mingle at the beginning of the night. The photos don’t have to just be around the venue, there are subtle ways to include them too - for men, this could be on cufflinks or for women, a charm on your bouquet.
Donate to a dog charity
A nice way to give a nod to your furry friend on your wedding day is for your wedding favours to be a donation to a local dog charity in your guests' name. A good deed that your guests - and the dogs are sure to appreciate.
Inspired? Whether your dog can physically be with you on your wedding day or not - there are many ways to ensure they are involved. Which one are you going to choose for your pooch?
Want your dog there on the day? You can use our venue filters to find the perfect, dog-friendly venue for your wedding on Guides for Brides.