At Fishermen’s Inn, we understand that dogs are more than just your pets; they’re your family, which is why we are always so excited when a pup (or two!) makes an appearance at your wedding ceremony. For so many couples, it wouldn’t feel complete without their dog walking alongside them on one of the most meaningful days of their lives.
Including your dog in your wedding can be incredibly sweet, and with the right planning, it can be seamless too. If you’re dreaming of including your four-legged family member, here’s what we’ve seen work beautifully.
One of the most important decisions is choosing who will be responsible for your pup throughout the day.
We’ve seen couples hire professional pet attendants like Paw Wedding Services (a trusted vendor on our preferred list!) who specialize in event-day pet care. They handle transportation, supervision, and coordination so couples can fully enjoy the moment.
Other couples choose a close friend or trusted family member. For example, when one of our wedding coordinator’s, Tara’s, brother was married, their dog Duchess was brought by a trusted friend who knew her well and could keep her calm and comfortable.
Choose someone who:
+ Knows your dog’s personality
+ Is comfortable managing them in a busy environment
+ Is not needed elsewhere during major moments
Some pups:
+ Join for first look photos only
+ Stay for immediate family portraits
+ Leave before the ceremony begins
Others:
+ Walk down the aisle
+ Stay through the ceremony
+ Exit right afterward
Because wedding days are full of guests, music, and movement, some dogs can become overstimulated. Having a flexible plan helps ensure they’re part of the day without becoming overwhelmed.
At Fishermen’s Inn, dogs are welcome outdoors for ceremonies and photos. They would need to depart before the transition upstairs, as pets are not permitted on the second floor where food is served.
Most couples arrange for their dog to return home once their “appearance” is complete.
Professional pet services often:
+ Transport pets home
+ Provide water and rest breaks
+ Ensure they’re comfortable in a familiar space
If a friend or family member is handling your pup, they may simply bring them home after photos or the ceremony. The goal is always to let your dog participate in the meaningful moments, then return to a calm, comfortable environment.
Is your dog:
+ Calm in crowds?
+ Comfortable with loud music?
+ Okay with being the center of attention?
If not, keeping their role limited to photos may be the best option.
Have a plan for:
+ Water access
+ Shade (especially in warmer months)
+ Bathroom breaks
+ Waste bags
+ A quiet holding area if needed
Let your:
+ Photographer
+ Officiant
know your plan in advance so they can cue timing and positioning. This is especially helpful if your dog is walking down the aisle or participating in a first look.
Not every pup thrives in a crowd, and that’s okay. If having your dog physically present isn’t the right fit, there are so many meaningful ways to include them in your day:
+ Signature cocktails named after them
+ Custom drink stirrers with their face
+ Cake toppers or figurines
+ Embroidered patches inside your attire
+ Photo charms wrapped around bouquets
+ A framed portrait at your welcome table
+ Napkins or bar signage featuring your pup
We’ve seen couples incorporate their pets in ways that feel personal, playful, and completely true to their story, even when the dog is happily relaxing at home.
Including your dog in your wedding can be incredibly meaningful and, with a little preparation, completely manageable.
Whether your pup walks down the aisle or simply joins for portraits, the most important thing is creating a day that reflects your story.
Venue | Fishermen’s Inn
Photographer | Composed and Exposed Photography
Florist | Wild Orchid
