10 Heartwarming Ways to Include Your Beloved Pet in Your Wedding

Your wedding day is one of the most special moments in your life, and for many of us, our pets are an integral part of the family. Including your furry friend in your wedding can add a touch of joy, love, and an extra dose of cuteness to your big day. Whether you have a lovable dog, a playful cat, or any other beloved pet, here are ten heartwarming ways to incorporate them into your wedding celebration.

1. *Pet Attendant or Ring Bearer. Our venue IS dog friendly! Pets are allowed in our outdoor spaces, in both the Mural Courtyard & Railway Patio, as well as the Roof Deck. Assign a special role to your pet on the big day, like being a “pet attendant” or “ring bearer.” Dress them up in a cute outfit or a floral collar, and watch as they steal hearts while walking down the aisle.
2. Save-the-Dates: Start the excitement early by including your pet in your save-the-date photos. Capture a candid moment with your furry companion to announce your upcoming wedding to family and friends.
3. Invitations: Get creative with your wedding invitations by incorporating pet-themed designs or illustrations. This personal touch will make your invitations stand out and set the tone for your pet-inclusive wedding.
4. Portraits: Display photos of your pet at the wedding venue. This can be a beautiful way to honor your beloved companion and make them feel like an essential part of the celebration, even if they can’t physically attend.
5. Attire & Accessories: You can now put your beloved pet portraits in a myriad of different customized accessories. Consider putting your pet portraits in cufflinks for the groom, or carry your pets with you down the aisle with a small charm attached to your bouquet.

6. Pet-Inspired Decorations: Incorporate pet-themed decorations throughout the ceremony and reception areas. One of our favorites that we’ve seen at our venue is the couple had ordered custom cocktail napkins with a portrait of their dog (look for Theo in our wedding souvenir display case in the Bridal Suite). Another one of our favorites is the couple had incorporated their cat Knox into their programs (seen above!).
7. Cake: Replace the traditional bride-and-groom cake topper with a customized figurine that includes your pet. Alternatively, see if your cake artist can put incorporate your pets into the actual cake decoration.
8. Favors: Many wedding favors offer customization; customize your wedding favors with a portrait of your pet instead. Another easy way to add your pet to customize your favors yourself is to order stickers of your pet; simply peel and stick!
9. Photo Booth: Photo booths are a fun activity to provide your guests, as well as being a built-in take home souvenir. DIY or buy some custom props with your pet’s face on them for your guests to pose with.
10. Signature Cocktails: Upgrade your bar package to include signature cocktails for the happy couple! Many of our couples who choose to have their weddings at our venue will actually name their cocktails after their pets; take this one step further and incorporate your pets into the signage for these.

*Remember, while involving your pet in your wedding can be magical, it’s essential to prioritize their comfort and safety throughout the day. Have a designated pet handler to care for them, provide a quiet space for breaks, and be prepared for unexpected situations.

With these ten heartwarming ideas, your wedding will be filled with love, happiness, and the delightful presence of your four-legged family member. Embrace the joy of sharing your special day with your beloved pet, and let them play a starring role in the beginning of your happily ever after.