7 Unforgettable Ways to Include Your Pet in Your Big Day
For many couples, weddings feel even more special when their beloved pet is part of the celebration. Who needs a best man when you’ve got a man’s best friend? The challenge often comes with how to include them without stress, distractions, or awkward moments. They’ve been with you through so many life chapters already, so it only feels right to have them join you for the most meaningful one yet.
If you’re looking for some adorable pet-inspired tips for your big day, here’s everything you need to get started!
1. Make Your Pet the Cutest Ring Bearer Your Guests Have Ever Seen
Exchanging rings defines the moment of your special day. So, why not have your four-legged friend deliver the wedding rings down the aisle in style and have everyone smiling before the ceremony even begins! You can dress your furry friend in a tiny satin pillow harness, a custom bow tie that matches your color palette, or a floral collar created by your florist.
A trained handler (or someone your pet trusts) can guide them toward the altar, so they arrive right on cue (and without any unexpected surprises!).
2. Dress Your Pet in Custom Attire That Matches Your Wedding Look
Pets in wedding outfits always steal the show, and there’s plenty of ways you can level it up! Think satin bow ties, miniature tux jackets, pearl collars or a little dress inspired by your own gown (or your bridesmaids), tailored to a perfect fit.
These touches photograph beautifully and help your pet blend into the aesthetic without taking anything away from your overall style. They also get guests talking, which always adds fun energy to the day.
- Picture your dog trotting down the aisle in a satin bow tie suit or a miniature tux jacket that matches the groomsmen.
- For the beautiful bride, imagine your pup in a soft tulle skirt or a mini version of your dress with a lace trim that ties the whole look together.
- For cats or smaller furry family members, think of pearl collars, floral harnesses, or velvet ribbons that match your bouquet.
Outfits like these create heart-warming and visually stunning photos that you’ll look back on for the rest of your life.
3. Create Magazine-Worthy Wedding Photos with Your Pet
Picture a soft moment in the gardens, a quiet cuddle under the trees, or a playful filmshoot on the winding pathways. The environment already feels magical, and including your pet creates some of the most heartfelt photos you’ll look back on for years.
Your photographer can guide you to the best spots on the property and help you capture the perfect moment in time.
4. Give Your Pet a Special Role That Fits Their Personality
Some pets love attention and can handle a stride down the aisle. On the other hand, others prefer greeting guests or joining you for portraits only. At the end of the day, you know your pet best. A confident dog might carry the rings on a secure pillow. A cute shy pup might trot in with a bridesmaid, while a more social dog can welcome guests at cocktail hour with a handler beside them!
Focus on an approach that feels natural for your pet. A calm, comfortable furry family member creates the sweetest moments.
5. Add a Touch of Your Furry Friend to Decor, Menus & Invites
Introduce your pet through beautifully placed photos on menus, cocktail napkins, or invitations for a thoughtful finishing touch.
A custom image of your pet can appear on your menus, escort cards, bar signage, or even your cocktail napkins. Or, why not add your furry friend as a cute topper for your wedding cake? Whatever you choose, this detail perfectly ties your pet into the day without needing them to physically take part in every moment.
Guests almost always notice these smaller details, but they bring the day together perfectly. They feel charming, personal, and oh-so creative!
6. Create a Signature Cocktail Inspired by Your Pet
Signature drinks already bring fun to the celebration, and naming one after your pet adds a personal touch. Imagine something called The Golden Hour Spritz for a golden retriever or The Fizz for a playful Frenchie! You can even add custom toppers, stir sticks or coasters with your pet’s face on them.
Explore a few extra ideas for designing a pet-inspired mocktail or cocktail:
- Match the cocktail colors to your pet’s coat, such as warm amber tones, creamy whites, or soft grays.
- Add custom drink toppers or cocktail flags featuring an illustration of your pet.
- Include a short, tongue-in cheek description on the bar menu explaining why the drink was inspired by your pet.
- Offer a non-alcoholic version (or mocktail) so each and every guest can enjoy your pet’s signature drink.
- Place a small-framed photo of your pet at the bar, so guests instantly know who’s behind the inspiration!
This idea always gets guests smiling and adds a playful touch to cocktail hour.
7. Set Up a Chic Pet Lounge with Comforts and Treats
For pets joining the full celebration, a dedicated lounge space offers comfort and calm. Choose a quiet corner or nearby room and style it with plush bedding, a few toys, fresh water and a treat or two. A pet attendant can watch over them while you’re enjoying your reception. This setup keeps your pet relaxed and gives you total peace of mind.
Celebrate Your Wedding Day with Your Pet by Your Side
Your wedding day celebrates timeless love; for many couples, that love includes a cherished pet who has shared every chapter of the journey. Bringing them into your special day adds warmth, personality, and moments you’ll treasure long after the last dance.
Spanning forty acres of gardens, woodlands, meadows, and ponds, Pleasantdale Château welcomes your guests and beloved pets to celebrate your once in a lifetime celebration.
The château provides a setting where your pet becomes part of the day in ways that feel personal, joyful, and completely true to you, adding little moments of happiness you’ll smile about long after the celebration ends.
Begin your wedding journey at Pleasantdale Château’s elegant grounds, where every cherished guest feels at home (especially the furry ones). Contact us today.
