If you've ever apologised because your dog jumped into a photo, sat on your lap during a Zoom call or stole the spotlight at a family gathering... don't worry.

I already know who's really in charge!

As a marriage celebrant, one of my favourite things is seeing couples include their pets in their wedding day. Whether it's a loyal Labrador, a cheeky Cavoodle, a gentle Golden Retriever or even the family horse on a country property, these moments are often the ones guests remember long after the wedding is over.

After all, they're not "just pets." They're part of your family, so why wouldn't they be part of one of the biggest days of your life?



There Are So Many Ways to Include Your Pet

One of the best things about modern weddings is that there are no rules.

Over the years I've seen pets included in all sorts of wonderful ways.

Your furry family member could:

• Walk down the aisle before you arrive.
• Be escorted by a bridesmaid, groomsman or one of your children.
• Join you for your vows before heading off for a well-earned rest.
• Feature in your family photographs.
• Wear a floral collar or bow tie to match your wedding colours.
• Be announced with their very own entrance song (which is always guaranteed to make your guests smile!).
• Be your honorary "Best Dog" or "Dog of Honour."
• Welcome guests before the ceremony begins.

The possibilities are endless, and the best part is that every wedding becomes just a little more personal.

The Cutest Ring Bearer - With One Important Rule

One of the most common questions I get asked is:

"Can our dog be the ring bearer?"

My answer is always...

Absolutely!

But with one important suggestion.

Please don't attach your actual wedding rings to your pet's collar.

No matter how well trained your dog is, they're still a dog. All it takes is one unexpected squirrel, one excited zoomie around the garden or one enthusiastic greeting of a guest and suddenly your wedding rings are somewhere nobody expected!

Instead, use replica rings or simply have your pet walk proudly with a decorative ring pillow or small keepsake attached to their collar or harness.

Keep the real rings safely in the hands (or pockets!) of your nominated ring bearer until it's time for the exchange.

Trust me... it removes a lot of unnecessary stress while still giving you all the adorable photographs.

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

Including your pet is wonderful, but a little preparation will help everything run smoothly.

I always recommend having a trusted friend, family member or professional pet chaperone whose only job is to look after your furry friend.

That person can make sure they're watered, walked, settled before the ceremony and ready for their big moment.

They can also whisk them away afterwards if your pet has had enough excitement for one day.

Just like little children, pets don't always stick to the script... and honestly, that's often part of the fun!

Some of My Favourite Wedding Moments

Some of my favourite ceremony memories involve four-legged wedding guests.

The dog who proudly walked down the aisle as though they owned the venue.

The puppy who decided the best place to sit during the vows was right between the couple.

The tail that wagged so enthusiastically it nearly knocked over the signing table.

The excited greeting that had everyone laughing before the ceremony had even begun.

These are the moments that can't be rehearsed, and they're often the stories couples tell for years afterwards.

Your Wedding, Your Family

Your wedding should reflect the people—and pets—you love most.

If that means your dog proudly walking down the aisle, posing for photos in a floral collar or making a surprise appearance during your ceremony, then I say go for it.

As your celebrant, I'll happily welcome them into the ceremony (and probably sneak in a cuddle if they'll let me).

Because weddings are about celebrating your story.

And for many couples, that story simply wouldn't be complete without a wagging tail.

Planning a Pet-Friendly Wedding in North East Victoria?

If you're looking for a marriage celebrant who genuinely loves including pets in wedding ceremonies, I'd love to help create a ceremony that's relaxed, personal and completely unique to your family—whether it has two legs or four.

Because every member of the family deserves to be part of the celebration.

Cheryl's Venue Tip

Before choosing your venue, ask whether pets are welcome not only for the ceremony but also for photographs afterwards. Many winery venues and country properties across North East Victoria are wonderfully pet-friendly, while others have restrictions because of livestock, wildlife or food service areas. Knowing this early in your planning means you can include your best mate without any last-minute surprises.