Your Furry Best Friend in Your Ceremony: 3 Must-Know Tips
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, unity, and everything that makes your relationship unique—including your beloved pet. Whether it’s your loyal dog, a charming cat, or even a feathery companion, more and more couples are choosing to involve their furry (or fluffy!) family members in their wedding ceremony.
As a Brisbane wedding celebrant and pet-lover myself, I’ve seen the joy, laughter, and heart-warming moments pets bring to a wedding day. But while including your pet is a beautiful gesture, it also calls for some thoughtful planning. Whether you're saying "I do" in Brisbane or creating magic on the Gold Coast, here are the top three things to consider when incorporating your pet into your ceremony.
1. Choose the Right Role for Your Pet
Before anything else, decide how your pet will be part of your special day. Will they walk down the aisle as a ring bearer? Sit beside you during your vows? Or perhaps just make a short appearance in your wedding photos?
If your pet is calm and well-behaved around crowds, they might thrive being part of the full ceremony. However, if they’re easily spooked or not used to loud environments, it may be kinder to include them in the pre-ceremony moments only—like portraits or the first look. Your wedding celebrant can guide you through how to weave your pet beautifully and safely into your ceremony script.
2. Appoint a Dedicated Pet Handler
As romantic as the idea of having your dog carry the rings is, someone needs to be on standby with treats, water, and a leash. Assign a trusted friend, family member or professional pet minder to look after your fur-baby throughout the day.
This person will ensure your pet arrives on time, is well cared for, and doesn’t wander off just as you're about to exchange vows. A professional handler, especially at a Gold Coast wedding ceremony where beaches or open gardens may be involved, can help things run smoothly and stress-free.
3. Consider the Venue’s Pet Policy
This is one detail couples sometimes overlook in the excitement. Not all Brisbane or Gold Coast wedding venues allow animals onsite, so double-check the rules well before the big day. Even pet-friendly venues may have restrictions on where your furry friend can go.
When planning your ceremony with a Brisbane or Gold Coast wedding celebrant, mention your pet early on so they can work with your venue and help adapt the ceremony flow accordingly. Celebrants who specialise in personal, relaxed ceremonies can even craft pet-inclusive vows or rituals that reflect the bond you share with your companion.
Final Thought …
Whether they’re walking you down the aisle in a tuxedo or snoozing on your train as you say “I do”, your pet can bring warmth, humour, and meaning to your wedding day. With a little planning, your wedding celebrant will ensure your ceremony feels like you—fur, paws, and all.
If you're dreaming of a personalised, heartfelt ceremony in Brisbane or on the Gold Coast (and yes, one that includes your pet!), I’d love to be your celebrant. Let’s create something truly unforgettable.