When it comes to planning your wedding, one of the most important decisions to be made is whom to include in the wedding party. Determining which family and friends should actually stand at the altar with you and which should participate as guests can be difficult. You obviously want to include loyal loved ones who have been there for you when you needed them. If your pet fits this description, perhaps you should consider including him or her in your big day. You can incorporate any of the furry members of your family; however, dogs are the most popular pets to include in the ceremony.
Including your pet in the wedding party
Some ceremony sites such as churches and hotels do not permit animals; be sure to get approval ahead of time. You also need to notify your officiant, other members of the wedding party and wedding planner. Discuss with your photographer your pet's presence if you plan on including him or her in photos. Also, consult your florist if you would like him or her to create your pet's accessories.
Assign someone the task of taking care of your pet for the day to ensure they too enjoy themselves. Be sure your pet is taken to do its business before the ceremony in order to prevent any accidents. Your pet's caregiver will also need to arrange for the animal to be picked up before the ceremony and taken home prior to the reception.
Your pet's role in the ceremony
Recognizing your animal's temperament and behavior is crucial. Be sure your pet has a good personality for the part, because if he or she is too hyper and excited or nervous around large crowds, it is not a good idea. Also, have a backup plan in case your pet does not cooperate.
Ring bearer, keeper of the vows, flower girl, bridesmaid, groomsman and honored guest are some of the ways your pet can be included. Although typically children serve as ring bearers and flower girls in a wedding, pets can also fit the part. By gently tying a box or pillow around the neck of your pet, he or she can be transformed into a ring bearer. To prevent any possible mishaps, you may not want to trust your pet with the official rings; fake ones will do.
Placing scrolls containing the vows into a decorated collar can allow your pet to act as the keeper of the vows, while carrying flowers in her mouth can demonstrate the role of flower girl. Depending on how your pet is incorporated into the ceremony, you will need to decide whether he or she will walk down the aisle alone, with a member of the wedding party, leashed or unleashed. If the pet will be accompanying children, be sure they have been around each other before the wedding so that the children aren't frightened and the pet is comfortable as well. You may want to bring the pet to the rehearsal to familiarize him or her with the location. This will help you identify any distractions that may catch your pet's attention. You wouldn't want your pet darting after a squirrel or rabbit during your beautiful outdoor wedding.
Your pet's appearance
Bathing and grooming your pet before your special day will ensure he or she looks and smells wonderful. This may also rid your pet of dander and help make guests with allergies more comfortable.
Pet costumes and accessories are available for purchase at various pet stores and boutiques, as well as online. Tuxedos, gowns, veils, top hats and bow-tie collar covers are among the many apparel options. If you think these items are too extreme, you could simply decorate your pet's collar and leash with flowers and ribbon.
