Make your pets part of your wedding day photos...

ONE of the fastest growing wedding trends right now is the inclusion of precious pets, especially dogs who seem that bit more socially accepting of happy wedding crowds and being the centre of attention. Dogs have stood squarely by our side for thousands of years, so it shouldn’t come as any real surprise to discover they now feature as part of our wedding day plans.

Pets are a major part of home life and it’s an absolute folly to assume that dogs are not an important part of family life with their own unique personality and character traits that we all love. A dog’s inclusion as part of the wedding day depends on many factors. Firstly (and most importantly!) a dog most have a passive, easy going disposition. Some dogs can quite easily and obediently act as ring bearers in a packed church, while other dogs would be far more interested in heading for the hotel kitchen!

Secondly, it’s all a question of common sense really and if you want to include a pet on your wedding day, then don’t be dissuaded by anyone. Just remember to be practical and sensible about it as the last thing you want is an over energetic Labrador running around the churchyard bashing off people’s fine clothes.

Damage limitation is the secret here and the best way to include a pet in wedding days is during the photo shoot. Have someone trustworthy bring the dog to a photographer’s study or wedding venue. Have them wear novelty bow ties or witty signs around their neck for the photos. These pics will forever draw a smile and it’s well worth the effort.

Dogs are natural-born characters and they are guaranteed to steal the limelight wherever they go. And don’t be put off either by the inevitable eye rolling that some people make when you tell them you’re going to include your dog in the wedding pics. They’ll soon realise who the real star of the day is.