Weddings are life-changing events that herald the beginning of a new life with your partner. For many people, bringing family and friends together to share in this joyous occasion is a must—and that includes having their beloved dog connected to the festivities. Whether or not your pup is able to be present, there are several ways your furry friend can be a part of this special day.

How to Honor Your Pet in Your Wedding

1. Add Them to the Wedding Party

Traditionally, brides and grooms have a maid of honor and a best man, respectively. These roles are usually reserved for close friends or relatives of the couple.

However, if your dog holds a special place in your heart, you can make them the “dog” of honor or the best “dog” and include them in the wedding party. Having your furry friend by your side during the ceremony will make your day feel even more special. 

2. Hire a Pet Sitter for the Ceremony

If you want your dog to make an appearance at the wedding but prefer they don’t actively participate, hire a pet sitter to bring your pup to the wedding venue for a short time.

They can be present long enough to visit with you and your guests, be in a few photos, and get showered with attention and treats. The pet sitter will take care of your animal so that you and your new spouse can tend to your other obligations during the festivities.

3. Make a Cardboard Cutout

A fun way to include your pup in your wedding is to create a cardboard cutout of them. This option works best for pets who may be too excited to be around large groups of people. With a cutout, you can still include them in pictures, and it will be a fun talking point with your guests.

4. Incorporate Them Into Your Stationery

Instead of waiting until the big day to include your pet in an activity, consider getting a jump-start on things by incorporating them in your wedding invitations and save-the-date notices. Get creative with how you add them to your stationery. For instance, you can include illustrations of them, have a professional photo session featuring them celebrating the engagement, or have their likeness made into stamps for the envelopes. 

Celebrate your special day with your loved ones at Makoy Center in Hilliard, OH. This 30,000-square-foot event venue is the perfect place to host your dream wedding and reception. They offer beautiful ballrooms that can fit between 60 to 400 guests as well as garden space for an outdoor wedding, all of which have led to them being voted Best of Weddings on The Knot® for seven straight years. This full-service facility comes with private entrances, free parking, theatrical event lighting, on-site catering, and much more to make the event one you will never forget. To book your date now, call (614) 777-1211 or visit them online to learn more about their services.