Like many things around the world, every family is different. As a result, having animals at weddings is nothing out of the ordinary. Animals play a huge role in many of our lives, and many people love to include them on their day.
Some pets and favourite animals just attend the wedding, while others enjoy having their parts as part of the actual bridal party. So from kangaroos to cows, and cats to birds, let’s discuss some ways to include animals during your wedding!
1: Dogs at Your Wedding
Your wedding day marks the start of your life with another person. However, as dog lovers, have already committed to a life long love obsession with your dog. So it’s only natural that you’d both want your beloved to participate in your big day. But some people wonder how they can include their furbaby in their wedding day celebrations.
For more, see our blog about dogs in weddings!
2: Horses at Weddings
If you’re horse lovers, there’s nothing more magical or unexpected as making an entrance on horseback. Horse-themed weddings have always been popular in Australia, due to the fact that horses can make gorgeous additions to wedding photos as well as incredible, unique touches to the wedding.
Further, horses have special symbolism in many cultures across the world. While some brides only want to include horses in their photos, others incorporate horses in their wedding as part of their theme or as whimsical transport to the wedding.
For more, see our blog on horses in weddings!
3: Doves and Birds at a Wedding
Birds at weddings have always been a much-loved tradition. They are an elegant addition to any day and it’s easy to see why people love having doves, pigeons and all sorts of birds there to celebrate their big day. But don’t feel like you’re restricted to doves and pigeons. If you have a special pet in your life, or you are getting married in a tropical setting, there are many options available to you!
Native Australian birds, especially, would make a lovely addition to your day. Why not celebrate with a gorgeous cockatoo or a quirky emu. The sky is the limit – literally!
4: Cats at Your Wedding
Cats are, of course, one of the most popular pets. And they are a beloved member of the family. So it’s no surprise that people want to incorporate their best friend in their special day. While cats might be a little more difficult to herd than a dog, that doesn’t mean they can’t be part of your day.
You can carry your cat with you, perhaps even as a substitute for your bouquet. Some brides even adopt cats for their bridesmaids to carry and keep forever after the wedding! And, if your cat is willing, you can even dress them up for the day with a gorgeous ribbon or tiny tuxedo!
5: Butterflies for Weddings
Like doves and pigeons, butterflies are another traditional favourite to help celebrate your wedding. As symbols of transformation, butterflies add a touch of colour and whimsy to a wedding. Many couples like to release a group of butterflies at the end of the ceremony, to wrap up their nuptials in style!
Butterflies also make great photo opportunities. Who wouldn’t love to get a shot of a beautiful butterfly perched on their bouquet?
6: Exotic or Native Animals at Weddings
Having a destination wedding, or have some exotic pets? Including them in your wedding, where safe for you, your pet or animal, and guests. There is nothing more exciting on the day than having a surprise guest at your wedding, and it makes for great memories! From koalas to emu to even elephants, it is a wonderful chance to have your beloved friend at your wedding.
7: Cows and Farm Animals at Weddings
A farm setting is the perfect opportunity to bring some fun animal into your wedding. Whether you are a farming couple or whether you just love a gorgeous barn setting, including iconic animals in your day is the perfect touch. And who wouldn’t want a cute lamb or beautiful cow or horse photobombing their wedding?
Horses, cows, chickens, ducks and even a handsome rooster can help make your wedding day perfect. Some brides even have goats or llamas to grace their big day!
Dressing for the Day
There are some great ways to get your pets into the theme of the day, if they are comfortable with it! It is important that you only do what your pet is comfortable with. Some brides like to dress their pet in a small flower garland. Others replace collars with a cute tie or bow for the event.
It is best to consider your pet’s personality to see where they can join in the wedding. Even the calmest pets can get uncomfortable when there are lots of people around.
Looking After Animals at Your Wedding
Animals also have different requirements to people at weddings. And at a big event, there are so many things to do, it is easy to become distracted and not pick up on your pet’s or animal’s cues, like normal.
As a result, many brides have a designated guest or hire someone to look after their animals on the day. This dedicated babysitter is responsible for food, water, shade, clean up and even transporting them home. Because of this highly dedicated task, many couples prefer to hire someone, rather than a family member or friend missing the fun.
Animal Friendly Venues
It is incredibly important – yet often overlooked – to check with the venue about their animal policy. Ensure that your wedding and reception venues – if necessary – are pet friendly. For those using parks or other public areas, always check with the local council first.
You can also choose a venue that has a connection to animals, or have some pre-wedding photos done with your pet, if you can’t have them as part of the actual day.
Planning your wedding? Check out True Bride’s wedding directory today to find the perfect venue for your wedding!
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