Party of Two Photography, Beauty Asylum
If you're anything like us, life isn't complete without our furry friends by our side. I'm sure most dog people can agree: there's nothing like a dog's love. If we could, we'd take our pups everywhere with us. (And some of us do!) They truly are man's best friend and we love when couples incorporate their pups into their special day. We've witnessed countless canine ring bearers, bride supporters, and spotlight stealers and they always melt our hearts. Keep reading for ideas to integrate your puppy love into your wedding design and day.
1. Wedding Day Photos
Photography by Angela Tucker, Willow Floral Boutique, Be Pretty Beauty, Whitehead Manor, Party of Two Photography, Beauty Asylum, Chelish Moore Florals, Separk Mansion
When it comes time for photos, consider including your pup in a few. Usually you'll chat with your photographer beforehand to finalize a shot list, so they know exactly what groups you want photographed. These groups include family, bridal party, and pups of course! We recommend thinking about this in advance, so you know exactly which photos you'd like to incorporate your dog in.
2. Ceremony Feature
Tyler James Photography, Lindsay Burchfield Beauty, Emma Kathryn Photography
You're guaranteed a lot of "awws" and "oh my gosh's" if you incorporate your pup into your processional lineup. The most popular role for fur babies is that of a ring bearer, where they walk down the aisle escorted by a groomsman. Consider dressing your pup in a corresponding outfit, like a flower girl dress or a suit to match the groomsmen.
3. Stationery Spotlight
Karli Strohschein Art - Etsy Shop
Watercolor portraits are quickly becoming the cult wedding favorite when it comes to stationery. Invitation suites should give your guests a glimpse into your big day in terms of design, colors, and personality. If you plan on including your pup in your day-of festivities, this is the perfect opportunity to introduce their involvement. Personalize your invite with a custom portrait that feels anything but ordinary.
4. Framed Photos
Emma Loo Photography
Whether huge portraits or tabletop frames, consider incorporating photos of your puppies into your design - think welcome table, guest tables, or by the bar while people wait for a drink. Personal photos are a beautiful way to emphasize the uniqueness of your day and we can vouch for their effect on the guest experience. Trust us - your guests WILL take the time to look at and admire your photos, so why not include your pups in them? After all, they're a very important member of the family - it would be rude not to. ;)
5. Signature Cocktails
Emma Loo Photography, Olive Paper
One of our favorite ways to feature pups is through a signature cocktail menu. Consider naming a drink or two after your pups for a personalized experience. Even if they can't be there for your big day, keep them close with a custom portrait on your drink menu. There's nothing cuter than a painting of your pup to greet guests at the bar.
6. Cardboard Cut Outs
Lydia Ruth Photography, ABC News Article
For a fun and entertaining photo prop, why not include custom cardboard cut outs of your pet? Your fur baby can still be part of the fun, even if they're with the dog sitter on your big day. We'd suggest incorporating them into your design, perhaps by framing the dance floor or photo booth. Guests will love posing and dancing with your pups all night long!
7. Cocktail Napkins
Olive Paper
The little details matter too - spotlight your pup on custom cocktail napkins so everyone can witness the cuteness. Napkins are a necessity anyway, so why not make them fun and personable? Customized details like this are truly the bread and butter of what makes a wedding unique, so we always encourage couples to incorporate personal touches where they can.
8. Biscuit Bar
Kristen Privette Photography, Olive Paper
In lieu of favors, consider offering a biscuit bar for guests to enjoy. A biscuit bar can feature just about anything you'd like - framed doggy photos, candles, and some dog treats for your guests to take home. This is the perfect way to incorporate your pups, by spreading the love to your guests' fur babies too.
9. Kustom Koozies
Demi Mabry Photography, The Carters Creative
A popular wedding favor and customized opportunity is the guest favorite: koozies. Include a portrait of your pup into the design for the perfect favor that guests will love. We'd recommend presenting them at the bar for a fun decor element that ties in with your design color palette.
10. Cake Details
The Carters Creative, Delish Cakery
If you're looking for an alternative to the traditional cake topper, consider a frosting feature of your fur baby! We'd suggest chatting with your bakery/cake vendor to discuss what options will work best for you before settling on one idea. If a frosting feature isn't your favorite, custom cake toppers are just as adorable (and reusable)!
If dogs could talk, I wonder what they'd say about all this...
Let us know your favorite idea in the comments - are you a dog or cat person? Or both?