Making Paw-some Memories: Photographing Our Furry Four-Legged Family Members on Your Wedding Day
Photographing Love in The Cotswolds, Worcestershire, Herefordshire & Beyond
As a dedicated luxury wedding photographer based very close to The Cotswolds (in Worcestershire), I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless love stories across The Cotswolds, Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Beyond.
I’m a very proud dog mum to my two incredible labradors (Bella and Nancy) who bring so much love and joy into mine and my daughter’s lives. I understand the love and bond that we share with our four-legged friends and how our companions truly are the best and incredibly special members of our family.
In this blog post, I'll share the reasons why including your dog(s) in your wedding is a heartwarming idea and I’ll also provide suggestions on how to make it a seamless part of your special day.
Unconditional Love:
This one is a no-brainer - Your dog is more than just a pet; they are a beloved family member. Including them in your wedding ensures that your furry friend is present to witness and celebrate the most important day of your life and be part of your story and memories forever.
Symbol of Togetherness and Family:
Your dog is part of your family and they are a part of the bond that you and your partner share as a couple. Including your dog in your wedding signifies the unity of your two families – the one you're creating and the one you already have with your pet. It's a beautiful representation of love and connection between you all.
Creating Precious Memories:
Your wedding day is a memorable occasion you'll cherish for a lifetime. Including your dog in the celebration creates memories that you'll treasure forever. From heartwarming moments during the ceremony to playful antics in your photos, your furry friend's presence will fill your wedding album and memories of your day with joy.
Stress Relief:
Wedding days can feel overwhelming at times, having your dog around can provide comfort, support, cuddles and stress relief. Their presence can calm nerves and bring a smile to your face.
Unique Photo Opportunities:
Including your dog in your wedding photos creates personal, unique and heartwarming moments and memories. From your dog walking down the aisle with a bridesmaid or chaperone to the expressions of love and curiosity on their face, family photos, reception moments and more these images will be some of the most treasured in your collection.
Taking a moment with an anxious dog at Cider Mill Barns - Warwickshire
How Do I Safely Include My Dog(s) As Part of Our Wedding Day?
Safety First:
Always consider your dog's temperament. If your dog is easily stressed or not comfortable with lots of noise or crowds, it might be better to have them present for a specific part of the day and then find a safe, quiet spot for them. I have worked with anxious dogs (including my own fox red lab who developed anxiety). I’m empathetic, calm and maintain any requested boundaries. Ensure dangerous foods like chocolate and grapes are out of sight and reach. (Check florals too).
Hide wheels of cheese from those cheese tax loving critters!
Dog-Friendly Venues:
The Cotswolds and surrounding areas boasts numerous venues that are dog-friendly and I can help you find the perfect place to accommodate your furry friend, ensuring a seamless integration into your special day. If you are hosting your own day in a marquee or yurt the search becomes easier.
Hiring or Assigning a Designated Doggy Attendant:
Hiring professional help can take away a lot of the stress and burden from your wedding day and also provide your beautiful furry friend with an escape, some quiet down time, exercise and refreshments. If you aren’t hiring professional help assign a trusted friend or family member to be the dog's caretaker on the big day. Ensure they have everything they need such as water, treats, toys, lead, their bed and poop bags.
Professional Assistance:
As a Worcestershire wedding photographer with a profound love for dogs, I understand the nuances of capturing special moments with your beloved pet. I can help ensure that your dog is comfortable and relaxed, resulting in stunning images that tell the complete story of your day.
Short Legs Dog Care are a professional dog loving car service based in The Cotswolds
Doggy Wedding Cake:
Consider having a dog-friendly cake or treats for your pup, so they can indulge in the celebration too.
I’ve also photographed a wedding at Hellens Manor in Herefordshire where the bride and groom provided take home treats for guest’s cats and dogs which was so sweet.
Other Ways to Include Your Dog:
Wedding cake toppers are a really fun way to include your dog! Photos of them, sharing your story and memories together. Wedding related gifts (I have seen a gorgeous portrait shared with the bride and groom of their boy presented during the speeches). And I have seen sad occasions where a couple’s dog is no longer with them and having a photograph of them by the cake or on a memory table is a lovely way to include them.
Beautiful wedding attire - why not have a coordinating floral wreath or bowtie for your furry friend
Dogs at Weddings is an enchanting and heartwarming concept, celebrating family and love in its purest form.
Your love story, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Cotswolds or wherever you choose to get married, deserves to be told with all the hearts that matter, human and canine alike.
If you're considering including your dog in your wedding, I'd be delighted to be a part of this magical journey capturing your story and memories for you.
Please get in touch to discuss how I can make your day memorable by capturing the love, bond, connection and beauty of it all.
Hayley x
Are you having an engagement session? Or would you like family photos with your dog(s) - please get in touch as dogs are very welcome for these sessions too!