Ever since launching Dog Furiendly, there’s been one tale I’ve been itching to tell – the story of my dog friendly wedding! Picture this: it’s 2015, and I’m tying the knot at the stunningly dog friendly Rosedew Farm. From my own experience, I’ve gathered a trove of tips on orchestrating the perfect dog friendly wedding.
The Journey Begins…
Our adventure kicked off with an epic road trip across the USA, where James proposed in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at Disney California. Saying “yes” was a no-brainer, and the wedding planning began in earnest. Our fur baby, Charlie, our adorable Jackhuahua, was at the forefront of our minds. There was no way we could celebrate without him.
Returning to the brisk Welsh weather, our excitement to reunite with Charlie was palpable. On seeing us, Charlie’s mixed emotions of annoyance and joy were evident, but he was soon over the moon when we asked him to be our ring bearer – a request he happily accepted with a wag of his tail and a nibble on some American dog treats.
Planning Our Dog Friendly Wedding with Charlie
Crafting a dog friendly wedding on a budget proved more challenging than expected. Despite facing a slew of rejections, our determination never wavered. We wanted Charlie there for the whole shebang, not just the reception. Our persistence paid off when we shortlisted venues open to hosting our furry guest, including the enchanting Craig Y Nos Castle It was crucial that Charlie approved of the venue too.
After much searching, we discovered our dream spot: Rosedew Farm in Llantwit Major. This dog friendly barn, with its ample fields and cosy accommodation, was perfect for us and for Charlie, who quickly made himself at home.
Extra Considerations for a Dog Friendly Wedding
The big question loomed: how would Charlie make his grand entrance down the aisle? We initially thought he could do it solo, but with the BBC filming and Charlie’s penchant for the limelight, we decided to enlist a special friend’s help. Amy, a fellow dog enthusiast and my confidante, was the ideal choice to escort Charlie, ensuring he felt loved and supported throughout.
Charlie, donning a bespoke yellow bowtie to match the groomsmen, proudly carried the rings attached to a ribbon. We went all out to ensure his comfort, providing an abundance of treats, his own tipi bed filled with familiar comforts, and plenty of playtime off-leash.
Having Charlie by my side was non-negotiable. He’s more than just a pet; he’s my little boy, my fur baby, and effectively, my best man. His presence at our wedding was a dream come true, and I wholeheartedly encourage others to consider making their weddings dog friendly.
Advice planning a Dog Furiendly Wedding
Tips for Planning Your Dog Friendly Wedding
- Venue Selection: Choose a venue that’s as welcoming to your four-legged friend as it is to your two-legged guests. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite dog friendly wedding venues to help you out.
- Assign a Dog-Sitter: While you’ll want to spend as much time as possible with your pooch, you’ll be occupied with various responsibilities. Delegate this task to a trusted individual, like one of your bridesmaids or groomsmen.
- Photographer: Ensure your photographer or videographer is comfortable around dogs. We were fortunate to have Owen Mathias capture our day, and we also recommend pet photographer Tom Harper for his exceptional skill in highlighting our furry friends in photos.
- Catering for Your Pooch: Adequate dog food and fresh water are a must. Stock up on dog friendly treats and perhaps order a special doggy cupcake. Consider creating a unique doggy wedding breakfast to make them feel extra special.
- Provide a Quiet Space: Weddings can be overwhelming for pets. Ensure there’s a serene area where your dog can relax. Also, arrange for short walks around the venue to give them a break from the festivities.
Share Your Dog Friendly Wedding
Your dog friendly wedding can transform into an unforgettable and inclusive festivity, celebrated by all. We’re eager to hear your tales of tying the knot alongside your furry friend! If you’ve experienced a dog friendly wedding, please share your journey with us. Across the UK, the beauty of dog friendly wedding venues in Cornwall and the picturesque charm of wedding venues in Scotland await to play host to your special day, ensuring your canine companion is right by your side. From the majestic highlands of Scotland to the serene beaches of Cornwall, there’s a perfect spot for every couple looking to include their beloved pet in their celebrations.
