How to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding (Without the Chaos)

Not every pet is born for the spotlight.

Some are chill enough to walk down the aisle in a floral collar.

Others will absolutely lose their minds at the sight of 80 clapping humans.

Options that usually work:

• Ring bearer (on a leash, with supervision)

• Flower dog.

• VIP guest (just sitting cute with someone in the front row)

• Cameo in your portraits only (no crowds, no chaos)

What doesn’t work: Expecting them to sit still for 6 hours and behave like a Pinterest dog.

Let’s be real.

Your pet needs a handler.

Not a vague “someone will watch them” plan.

An actual human being whose only job is to care for your fur baby from start to finish.

Things this person should be:

• Calm

• Responsible

• Not wearing heels

• Preferably someone your pet knows

Trust me...

You don’t want your bestie juggling a bouquet and a barking dachshund.

Some venues are like,

“Oh yeah, dogs are fine” ...and then change their tune when your labradoodle pees on a boxwood hedge.

So double check:

• Are pets allowed on-site (not just outside)?

• Do they need to be on a leash?

• Is there a quiet space where they can hang out during the reception?

If your venue says no, don’t panic.

You can always include your pet in engagement photos or get-ready pics instead.

It's even way less pressure.

Yes, this is real.

If your pet is walking down the aisle, practice it.

Put them in their little outfit, play the music, and let them walk the path.

The more familiar it feels, the less likely they are to panic and bolt toward the buffet.

Additional tip: Test their outfit ahead of time too.

If they try to eat it, scratch it, or dramatically flop onto the floor in protest

...Maybe skip the outfit.

Your pet needs a day-of bag just like you do.

Pack it like you’re their assistant:

• Leash + harness

• Water + bowl

• Treats

• Poop bags (non-negotiable!)

• Favorite toy

• A lint roller (for you, not them)

A little prep equals fewer surprises.

This is so key

Your pet does not need to party all night.

Let them shine during the ceremony or photo hour ...then have someone take them home to relax.

The reception is loud, overstimulating, and full of tripping hazards.

So don’t make them suffer through your cousin’s 3-minute maid of honor rap.

A tiny bowtie? Adorable.

A floral collar? I loveee.

A full tuxedo with a top hat?

That’s a no from me.

If your pet’s outfit makes them uncomfortable, they will 100% try to escape it on camera ...and not in a cute rom-com way.

Keep it simple, soft, and breathable.

Comfort > aesthetics.