From Fur Baby to Ring Bearer: How to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding Ceremony
For many couples, their “furbaby” is a cherished member of the family. It’s only natural that you would want your pet to be a part of your wedding day, celebrating alongside you as you say “I do.” While the idea of a dog trotting down the aisle with a ring pillow is adorable, bringing your pet into your ceremony requires careful planning.
At The Marry Men, we’ve had the pleasure of officiating ceremonies with four-legged friends, from well-behaved pooches to shy little kittens. We’re here to share our top tips on how to safely and joyfully include your beloved pet in your wedding ceremony.
1. The Role They’ll Play
First, and most importantly, really think hard about your pet’s personality. Is your dog a social butterfly who loves a crowd, or are they easily overwhelmed by new environments and large groups of people? Do not expose them to any situation that will cause them stress. Their comfort is paramount. If they are a calm, well-socialized pup, consider a starring role. If not, there are other ways to include them without putting them in a stressful situation.
- The Ring Bearer/Flower Pup: This is the most popular choice for a well-trained dog. Attach a small, secure ring pillow or a floral arrangement to their harness. Be sure to have a dedicated person (a trusted friend or a member of the wedding party) on standby to walk them down the aisle or be at the end of the aisle to receive them.
- The Greeter: If your pet is great with people but might get overwhelmed by the ceremony itself, consider having them at the entrance to greet guests as they arrive. This is a sweet way to make a big impact without putting them in the spotlight for too long.
- The Photo Star: If your pet isn’t suited for a live role, they can still be a part of your day in your photos. Schedule a special photo session with your photographer before or after the ceremony. It’s a great way to capture some beautiful family moments without the pressure of a live performance.
2. Logistics and Planning
Once you have a role in mind, it’s time to get down to the practical details.
- Check with your venue: This is a crucial first step. Not all venues are pet-friendly, and some may have specific rules about where pets are allowed. Always ask for written confirmation of their pet policy.
- Designate a “Pet Handler”: This is arguably the most important tip. You and your partner will be busy. Assign a responsible and trusted friend or family member to be in charge of your pet throughout the day. This person will be responsible for getting them to the venue, making sure they have food, water, and potty breaks, and taking them home when their part is done. This allows you to be fully present in the moment.
- Alternatively, there are so many incredible pet sitters and handlers in the GTA to choose from. Services like Black Dog Weddings, The Pawsh Dog, and Tails Down the Aisle specialize in this very thing, providing a professional to care for your pet on your big day.
- Have a Plan B: What if your pet gets nervous or decides to have a sudden burst of energy? Be prepared to adjust. A good officiant will know how to handle these moments with a sense of humor and grace. We’ll be ready to pivot and ensure the ceremony continues smoothly, no matter what.
3. Incorporating Them into the Ceremony Itself
You can do more than just have your pet walk down the aisle. You can also weave them into the narrative of your ceremony.
- Tell a story: When we craft your custom ceremony script, we can include a fun anecdote about your pet. Did they help you through a tough time? Were they there for your proposal? Including these stories makes your ceremony even more personal and special.
- Symbolic Gestures: If your venue doesn’t allow pets, you can still include them symbolically. Consider having a signature cocktail named after them, using their likeness as a cake topper, or even making a donation to a local animal shelter in their honour.
Including your pet in your wedding ceremony is a beautiful way to celebrate your whole family. With a little planning and the right support from your team of vendors (including your officiant!), you can ensure that your furry friend is a joyful part of your most important day.
About The Marry Men Wedding Officiants
The Marry Men Wedding Officiants are Jason and Michael, a dedicated duo committed to crafting personalized, one-of-a-kind ceremonies for every couple. With backgrounds in event coordination, journalism, and the performing arts, we bring a unique blend of professionalism, passion, and storytelling to your special day.
We proudly serve couples of all faiths, backgrounds, and orientations, believing that every love story deserves to be celebrated. Find more about our journey and services at our website, www.themarrymen.ca, and follow us on Instagram @themarrymen. Read our glowing reviews on Google Business and Wedding Wire to hear from our incredible couples. We are also proud to have shared our expertise in the last 9 issues of Today’s Bride magazine.