What does a dog-friendly wedding celebrant do?
A dog-friendly celebrant is more than someone who simply allows dogs at a wedding ceremony. They're willing to work with you to incorporate your dog into the ceremony and understand that things don't always go exactly according to plan when a four-legged member of the wedding party is involved!
Your celebrant can help you consider:
- How and when your dog will enter the ceremony
- Whether your dog will stay with you throughout the ceremony
- How your dog can be incorporated into your vows or ceremony wording
- Whether your dog will have a specific role, such as ring bearer or flower dog
- What happens if your dog becomes distracted or overwhelmed
- Who will be responsible for your dog during the ceremony
- How your celebrant can keep the ceremony moving if your dog decides to do their own thing!
The best part? A good dog-friendly celebrant won't expect your dog to behave perfectly. They understand that having your dog involved is about creating special memories – not putting on a flawless performance.
Fun ways to include your dog in your ceremony
There are plenty of ways to include your dog and give your dog a special role without making the ceremony complicated.
Your dog could:
- Walk down the aisle with a member of the wedding party
- Be your ring bearer
- Act as your "flower dog"
- Stand beside you during the ceremony
- Wear a special collar, bow tie or bandana
- Be included in your vows or ceremony story
- Join you for the signing of the marriage certificate
- Make a special appearance for photographs
- Walk back down the aisle with you after the ceremony
And remember – your dog doesn't necessarily need to perform a specific role. Simply having them present can be incredibly meaningful.
Questions to ask your wedding celebrant
Before booking your celebrant, it's worth asking a few questions about including your dog.
Are you comfortable with dogs being part of the ceremony?
This is the most obvious question, but it's worth asking. You want someone who genuinely enjoys having dogs involved rather than someone who is simply willing to tolerate them.
Have you worked with dogs at weddings before?
Experience isn't essential, but a celebrant who has worked with dogs before will generally have a good understanding of how unpredictable they can be!
Can you help us incorporate our dog into the ceremony?
A good celebrant may have ideas you haven't considered.
What happens if our dog becomes distracted?
Dogs may bark, wander, greet guests or decide that the middle of your vows is the perfect time for a toilet break. Your celebrant should be comfortable adapting.
Do you recommend having someone responsible for our dog?
For many couples, a dedicated dog chaperone is a great way to ensure the dog is cared for while everyone else enjoys the ceremony.
Finding the right dog-friendly celebrant
Every couple has a different idea of what their perfect wedding ceremony looks like, and the same applies to including your dog.
Some couples want their dog to have a starring role, while others simply want them present for a few special moments. When you're choosing a celebrant, look for someone who is willing to listen to your ideas and help you create a ceremony that feels authentic to you.
You'll find dog-friendly wedding celebrants from across Australia in the Pawfect Weddings directory.
Planning the rest of your dog-friendly wedding?
Once you've found your celebrant, you may also need:
Find venues across Australia that welcome couples who want their dogs involved in their wedding day.
A professional dog chaperone can look after your dog before, during and after the ceremony, allowing you and your guests to enjoy the day.
Find photographers who understand how to capture those special moments between couples and their dogs.
Continue planning your dog-friendly wedding
Helpful guides for couples:
Especially For You - Wedding Ceremonies by Taryn