Incorporating your fur baby into your day can be SO fun! I mean, your pets are family, too! But what is the best way to plan? As a professional wedding photographer (and dog lover), I have some tips to help.
One of my most important tips for including a dog in your wedding day is to have a person designated to be your dog’s “handler” or “buddy.” This could be a friend or family member, or someone you hire to come help. They can walk your dog, make sure they have water and treats and are taken care of when they are not participating in photos or fun. This person could also be in charge of bringing them and taking them home early from the wedding day.
Consider what items you can bring to help make the day easier. What will make your pet the happiest on the day–a favorite blanket or toy? And what items could help get them to look at the photographer–some treats? a squeaky toy?
Some couples bring their dogs to the wedding day only for a short time to be included in some photos and other couples plan for their dog to be in their wedding ceremony as the flower girl or ring bearer. It is most common for a couple to plan for their dog to be part of their engagement session or for the couple to plan for their dog to be in about 10 minutes worth of photos and then go home, but it is totally up to you!
Another important factor is your dog’s personality. Does your dog have a lot of energy? Can they sometimes be aggressive? Or get anxious around a new place or around lots of people? If so, your wedding day might not be the best place for them. If they are stressed out it could stress you out too–and neither of you deserve that! But, you can include them in the decor as a cake topper, in printed photos along with your family photo display, or you could name your signature cocktail after them.
If incorporating your dog into your wedding day is too difficult, you may decide to include your dog in your engagement photos. I still recommend bringing a friend to help with your dog during the shoot. Although we will want to get some great photos with them, we will also want to get some photos of just you and your fiancé. During this time it really helps to have someone taking care of your pet so that you don’t have to worry.
Lastly, always check with your venue or photo location to make sure they allow dogs and find out if they have any rules regarding pets.
If you have any questions about bringing your dog along on your engagement shoot or wedding day, please ask me! I’m happy to help. Contact me today.
