Animals are becoming a much bigger part of wedding days. Whether they are part of the family or booked especially for the occasion, they often provide the moments guests are still talking about long after the celebrations have ended
It is a trend we have loved seeing grow. Animals bring a sense of fun and familiarity to a wedding day, and they often lead to the photos couples look back on most fondly. Getting it right does take a little planning, so we have put together some of the ideas we have seen work well, along with what to think about before you book.
Why Couples Are Including Animals In Their Day
For many couples, it comes down to personality. A pet is often part of the family, and celebrating such an important day without them can feel like something is missing. Having them there makes the day feel more like your own, in the same way as any other unique wedding touch, and it tells your guests a little more about who you are as a couple.
Animals are also wonderful for photography. They rarely pose on cue, which tends to create the relaxed, natural moments couples look back on most. An animal wandering into a family portrait or stealing the attention during a group shot can easily become a favourite photo from the day.
They also give guests something to gather around during quieter parts of the day, such as when the two of you are away having photos taken. Animals make a natural icebreaker for guests who do not know each other well, and younger guests in particular tend to love them.
Dogs At Weddings
Dogs are the most familiar animals at weddings, and there are plenty of ways to give them a role on the day.
A dog can make a lovely ring bearer, although it is best to attach the rings securely to a pouch or harness rather than a collar, and to keep a spare set with the best man or maid of honour just in case. Dogs can also walk down the aisle with a bridesmaid or family member, or wait at the front with you during your ceremony if they are calm enough to settle.
Dressing your dog for the occasion is another simple touch. A floral collar, bow tie or bandana in your wedding colours works well, as long as it is comfortable and easy to remove.
If other guests are bringing their dogs too, water bowls and a shaded spot away from the music will help everyone settle. Dog treats can even double as wedding favours for your four-legged guests.
For more on photos, dog sitters and keeping your dog happy throughout the day, take a look at our tips for including your dog in your wedding.
Photography by Lee Brown https://lsbp.co.uk/
Welcoming Alpacas To Your Wedding
Couples at Hyde Bank Farm have welcomed alpacas to their celebrations before, and they are fast becoming an increasingly requested addition to a wedding day. They are usually booked for a set window, often during the drinks reception, rather than for the whole day.
Their calm, curious nature suits a busy setting, and they are very photogenic. Couples often have them greet guests on arrival, join group photos or wear flower garlands that match the colour scheme.
Most alpaca hire companies send experienced handlers with their animals, so you will not need to look after them yourselves. It is still worth asking what is included, how long they will stay and how much space they need.
Including A Donkey In Your Celebrations
One of our couples has chosen to include a donkey at their upcoming wedding, where it will carry beers across to guests between the ceremony and the reception. Donkeys bring a gentle, rustic charm that suits outdoor celebrations and countryside weddings, and their steady, friendly nature makes them easy for guests to approach. They are also the kind of detail people remember and talk about long after the day.
They can carry flowers, signage or a welcome basket, or simply join you for a few photos. As with alpacas, donkeys are best booked with an experienced handler for a set part of the day, and it is worth checking how they cope with crowds and noise before you commit.
Animals With A Personal Story
Not every animal at a wedding needs to be booked. Some of the most memorable appearances come from animals with a real connection to the couple or their guests, whether that is a family pony, a much-loved pet or even a guest arriving with their own sheep.
These moments often mean more than a novelty hire because they reflect who you are and the people around you. If someone close to you has an animal they would love to bring along, talk it through with your venue early so you can find a way to make it work.
What To Think About Before You Book
Animals can add a great deal to your day, but a little preparation makes sure the experience is a good one for everyone involved, including the animals themselves.
- Check with your venue first
Every venue has its own rules about which animals are welcome, where they can go and for how long. Some may require insurance or prefer particular suppliers, so add this to your wedding venue checklist before you book.
- Put the animal’s welfare first
Noise, crowds and long days can be tiring for any animal. Keeping their involvement to a set part of the day is usually kinder than having them there from start to finish, and good suppliers will be happy to explain how they care for their animals.
- Think about your guests
Allergies and phobias are more common than you might expect, so mention any animals on your invitations or wedding website. It also makes sense to keep animals away from food and drink service.
- Plan around the weather
Wet grass, mud and hot days all affect where animals can comfortably be. Think about what each wedding season looks like and agree a backup plan with your supplier in case conditions change.
- Make someone responsible
Every animal should have a named handler for the day, whether that is a professional or a trusted friend. That way, you can enjoy your celebrations without wondering who is keeping an eye on them.
Plan Your Wedding At Hyde Bank Farm
With the right planning, animals can bring a personal and memorable touch to your wedding day, whether that is your dog walking down the aisle, alpacas greeting your guests or a donkey delivering drinks.
At Hyde Bank Farm, our countryside setting in Cheshire offers a relaxed backdrop for celebrations that reflect who you are. As an independent, family-run venue, we take the time to get to know each couple and their plans.
If you are thinking about including animals in your day, our team will be happy to talk through what is possible and how it could work alongside everything else you have planned.
The best way to get a feel for the space is to see it in person. Arrange a visit to explore the venue and chat through your ideas with our team, or download a brochure to find out more about our weddings and prices.