How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

Dogs are part of the family – and we totally understand why you want to include them in your wedding day. Our wedding venue allows dogs outside, and inside for the ceremony and pictures only, and we encourage you to find ways to add your furry friends into your big day. 

Photos

If your dog doesn’t like big crowds, or the unpredictability of a ceremony is too much, having them come for pre-ceremony photos is a great option to capture cherished memories. This is a fun option and gives you a little moment of peace with your pup during a sometimes hectic day. 

Ceremony

Make your dog the star of the show and include them in your ceremony. Our wedding venue allows dogs for the ceremony, and you can include them however you see fit. Some people have their dog walk with them down the aisle, act as a ring bearer, or sit up front as a bridal party member. Any of the options are destined for cute photos!

Decor

This option goes for dogs and beyond, to pets of all kinds. Using your dog, cat, lizard, or rabbit in decor is such a fun way to add personalization to your reception. 

• Your pet as a signature drink – for example, Blue’s Blueberry Mule! You can make a sign with a picture of them and set it on the bar. 
• A picture or illustration of your pet on a cocktail napkin
• A figurine of your pet to put on your cake
• A welcome sign featuring a picture or illustration of your pet
• Packs of dog treats for your guests to take home to their pups

Get creative and have fun with this piece of decor. 

Hire a professional

There are a few great vendors in the Madison area who will pick up your dog and bring them to your ceremony if you don’t want to pass that task on to a family or friend. Madison Dogma or Dog Dream Day will work with you to transport your pup to and from your ceremony, and take care of them during the whole process. 

Barnwood’s month-of coordinators can help find ways to incorporate your pet, and then execute it on the big day. Reach out if you’d like to add a coordinator for your wedding!