“All his life he tried to be a good person. Many times, however, he failed. For after all, he was only human. He wasn’t a dog“.

Charles M. Schulz.

_{^{Dogs at weddings.}}

Dogs at weddings is something I’m seeing more and more of. Also is it me or are there more dogs about generally than a few years ago? All my friends and other people I know seem to have got a dog recently! And over the past few months I’ve noticed more and more enquiries about my wedding photography asking if I’m OK with dogs. It got me thinking that maybe I should write a blog about it, not about whether I’m OK with dogs, which I am! Because that would be a pretty short blog – but the whole dogs at wedding thing.  

I’ve read stories where a bride to be has said they want their dogs at their wedding more than some of the guests! Many previous couples have said the presence of dogs has helped to introduce a more relaxed and less formal atmosphere.

_{^{Are dogs allowed at weddings?}}

First of all there’s no law that says dogs are not allowed at weddings. I’d imagine wedding venues will be a bit more accommodating than churches but it will come down to the individual vicar, priest or registrar conducting your ceremony. Reception venues may have hygiene rules about dogs in eating areas so make sure you ask your wedding coordinator for areas of the premises that are open to dogs.

_{^{Is it a good idea to let our dog come to the wedding? Some things to consider:}}

1. How is your dog with crowds? Are they likely to jump up on people? Getting muddy paw prints on the new Mother in Law’s dress may not be the best way to start married life!
2. What about your mixing time? This is your wedding day, a chance to meet up with friends and family you may not have seen for a while, is your cute bundle of fur going to get in the way of you mingling?
3. Think generally of your dog’s behaviour. One person’s “energetic pooch” is another person’s “crazy wild dog running around everywhere causing havoc”!
4. Check to see if any of your suppliers or officiants have a fear or allergy to dogs.
5. You can hire specialist dog handlers who will look after the dog, feed, take for walks and generally keep them entertained.  

_{^{What ways can I get let our dog be involved in the wedding?}}

There’re loads of ways you can incorporate your dog or a dog theme into your wedding:

• You could have a dog design or illustration of your own dog on your save the date, invites, RSVP and other wedding stationery.
• Maybe have a dog themed table plan, place cards or favour wrapping.
• How about a dog themed wedding cake or cake topper?
• You could have your dog be the ring bearer.
• I saw a great idea about letting your dog wear a GoPro camera!

There’s some more great ideas here on how to involve dogs on your wedding day.

_{^{Hey if we book you as our wedding photographer can we bring our dog along on our pre wed practice shoot like the other couples on here?}}

No problem!

If you’re looking for a dog friendly wedding photographer contact me here.