Including Pets in Your Wedding

Your pet is part of your family, so it makes perfect sense to include them in your wedding day. Whether they’re a bouncy Labrador, a chill rescue cat or a well-loved bunny, having them nearby can bring so much joy, calm and laughter to your celebration.

Here are some beautiful and practical ways to make it work.

(Scroll to the bottom to meet my Cavvies, Fern & Billy)

How They Can Be Involved

• Walk down the aisle with a handler or member of your wedding party

• Ring bearer or flower dog (yes, they can wear a little pouch or flower collar)

• Front row VIP seated with someone they know and trust

• Mentioned in your vows or love story

• Included in portraits with you both, either before or after the ceremony

• Represented in your signage, cake topper or vow books if they can’t attend in person

Planning for Their Comfort

Weddings can be overwhelming for pets. Lots of people, noise and attention can be a lot to take in. Consider your pet’s personality and needs when deciding how involved they should be.

• If your pet is shy, excitable or easily stressed, you might choose to have them brought in just for photos before or after the ceremony.

• Make sure someone they know well is responsible for them on the day. This person can give them walks, breaks, treats, and reassurance.

• Always have fresh water available, a shady spot to rest, and space away from crowds if they need it.

• Bring their favourite blanket or toy to help them feel settled.

• If they’re wearing something fancy, like a floral collar or bow tie, make sure it’s comfortable and safe.

After the Ceremony

It’s really important to have a clear plan for what happens once your pet’s big moment is over. Weddings can run long and it’s not fair on your furry friend to expect them to hang around all day.

• Arrange for a trusted person to take them home or back to their accommodation after the ceremony or photos.

• If you’ve hired a pet chaperone or sitter, they’ll manage this for you.

• Let your celebrant and photographer know when and how your pet will be involved so we can help everything flow smoothly.

And remember…

Your pet might not understand what a wedding is, but they definitely know they’re part of your family. Including them, in whatever way makes sense, can add so much heart to your celebration. Whether they walk you down the aisle, make a cameo in your photos, or are simply honoured in spirit, their presence is always felt.

And don’t be surprised if they steal the show.

Meet My Doggies: Fern & Billy

Fern

Fern is the prettiest, sweetest little lady — until there are snacks involved. Then she transforms into a little demon and will even steal treats right out of Billy’s mouth! She’s a professional scavenger and has a habit of sneaking food she shouldn’t, which often leads to 2am wake-ups with a sore tummy.
She’s a lap-hopper and serial licker, and somehow manages to charm absolutely everyone she meets.
She may only weigh 7kg, but she absolutely runs the show. We don’t do anything unless Fern wants to!
Fiercely stubborn and full of sass, she’s also my little shadow and absolute emotional support queen.

Billy

Billy is the cheekiest, cuddliest little man — equal parts lovebug and ball of anxiety. He has very big feelings and simply cannot start the day without a solid cuddle session. He’s insatiable when it comes to pats, and those big Disney eyes of his? Pure emotional manipulation.
They say girl dogs love you, and boy dogs are in love with you, and that certainly rings true in our family. He loves playing tug with his toys, but nothing in the world brings him more joy than chasing his ball on the beach.