Including your Pet
Whether you have a dog, cat, reptile, or horse, pets play a very important role in our lives and hold a special place in our hearts. So much so that couples want to include them on the happiest day of their lives!
Let’s explore how you can include your beloved pet on your wedding day and some factors to consider before you bring them on the dance floor.
Should your pet be present on your wedding day?
Of course, you may want your pet to be involved in your wedding, but there are many factors to consider before you make that decision. Think about logistics. How will your pet get to and from your ceremony? Who will be caring for your pet? Will you need to hire a pet sitter? Are you going to be responsible for them throughout the ceremony and reception? You want to be able to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and joy of your wedding day, so you may not want the extra responsibility of looking after your pet.
You will also need to consider the welfare of your pet. Are they comfortable around loud noises, crowds, and strangers? If not, it might be better to have your pet involved before the festivities to keep the environment calm and peaceful.
Remember to check that your venue is pet-friendly and specify the type of pet. Some venues may allow dogs, but a horse may be out of the question. Others may not allow animals on the premises at all.
What should you do if your venue isn’t pet-friendly?
Unfortunately, not all venues are pet-friendly. If your dream wedding venue doesn’t allow pets, don’t worry, you can still make your pet feel special on your big day.
If pictures of your pet are important to you, you have a couple of options. You can take pictures on a separate day with your wedding ensemble and recreate the day or take pictures at a separate location that allows pets. If you want to explore other ways to honor them at your ceremony or reception, we have some creative options for you.
9 ways to include your pet on your wedding day
Whether your furry friend is there to celebrate your wedding day or not, there are many ways to include and honor them during your ceremony and reception.
1. Photos with the wedding party
This is one of the most popular ways to include your pet! Pictures with the wedding party or a portrait with you, your partner, and your pet are excellent ways to remember the moment. Plus, pets always bring an extra layer of joy and spontaneity to photo sessions, so you’ll likely capture the most candid, emotional moments you’ll cherish forever.
2. Have them walk you down the aisle
Dare to be untraditional and have your pet by your side as you walk down the aisle! They can also walk with your wedding party, stand alongside you as you say your vows, or act as the ring bearer or flower person.
3. Customize a cake topper
If you’re opting for cake as your wedding dessert, create a custom cake topper to include your furry friend. It’s a simple and adorable way to honor your pet on your big day!
4. Creative wedding invites
Traditional wedding invitations are quite simple and elegant, but why not spice them up a bit and include a picture or illustration of your pet?
5. Themed mocktails or appetizers
Name your signature cocktails or mocktails after your furry friend. You can even have edible paper in the shape of your pet to put on your drink as creative garnish! Or use cocktail napkins to display their beautiful portrait.
6. Illustrative designs throughout the space
You can include your pet by creating a digital illustration of them to use on any decor like napkins at cocktail hour, signage throughout the reception, etched on pocket squares, or part of the wedding favors.
7. Not so ruff desserts
Your pets may not be able to indulge in desserts, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be included! Who doesn’t love a sugar cookie shaped like an adorable golden retriever or cupcakes with an orange cat on them? If your pet will be present, find a bakery that makes animal-friendly treats so they can enjoy dessert, too!
8. Unique table numbers or seating chart
Pay homage to your pet by creating a unique table setting with them in mind! Whether it be a seating chart or actual table numbers, you can craft a pet-oriented table that’s tasteful and unique.
9. Donate to an animal shelter
What better way to honor the love between you and your pet than paying it forward to organizations in need? Wedding registries will often have an option available to set up charitable contributions, so you can give your guests the option of donating to an animal shelter of your choice.
The perfect wedding for all members of your family
All pets are welcome to celebrate your big day at Cornman Farms, from horses to dogs to everything in between! Learn more about our wedding packages and fill out the form to take a tour of our beautiful property in Ann Arbor here.