Tuesday 27 May 2025
Your wedding day is all about celebrating love—and that includes unconditional love from your furry friends. For many couples, the thought of saying "I do" without their beloved pets by their side just doesn’t feel right. At Growwild, a pet-friendly wedding venue in the Southern Highlands, we understand that your four-legged family members are a part of the celebration. From dressing them in dapper bowties to making them ring bearers, there are countless ways to include your pets in your wedding. Here’s how to do it seamlessly while keeping them safe and comfortable.
1. Make Them Part of the Ceremony
One of the most heartwarming ways to include your pet in your wedding is by giving them a starring role in the ceremony. Whether it’s walking down the aisle with a floral collar or carrying the rings, this can add a personal and memorable touch to your day.
Ideas for Including Pets in the Ceremony:
- Ring Bearer: Attach a secure ring pouch to your pet’s collar and have them walk down the aisle with a trusted handler.
- Flower Pup: Dress your dog in a floral collar or a bandana that matches your wedding colours.
- Aisle Escort: Have your pet accompany a bridesmaid or groomsman down the aisle for an extra dose of charm.
At Growwild, the garden paths and open spaces provide a safe and picturesque setting for pets to play their part in the ceremony. Make sure to designate a friend or family member to keep them on a leash before and after their big moment.
2. Picture-Perfect Moments with Your Pet
Your wedding photos are memories you’ll cherish forever, so why not include your furry friend in a few of them? Pets can add warmth and personality to your photos, whether it’s a candid shot of them nuzzling your dress or a posed family photo.
Tips for Pet-Friendly Wedding Photos:
- Coordinate with Your Photographer: Let your photographer know in advance that your pet will be involved so they can plan the shots.
- Dress Them Up: Bowties for dogs or flower crowns for cats can add a touch of personality and elegance.
- Include Props: A sign reading “My Humans are Getting Married” or “Dog of Honour” can make for an adorable and Instagram-worthy shot.
Growwild’s stunning garden backdrops and natural lighting make it the perfect spot for capturing those special moments with your pet.
3. Pet-Friendly Venue Guidelines at Growwild
While Growwild welcomes pets, a bit of planning can help ensure everything goes smoothly. It’s important to adhere to some basic guidelines to keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout the day.
Key Guidelines for Bringing Pets to Growwild:
- Leashes Required: For safety, pets should be kept on a leash during the ceremony.
- Dedicated Pet Sitter: Designate a friend or hire a pet handler to supervise your furry friend and handle any unexpected situations.
- Pet-Friendly Zones: Limit your pet’s access to certain areas, like the dining space, to avoid any mishaps.
- Pet Comfort Kits: Bring essentials like water bowls, treats, waste bags, and a favourite blanket to keep them calm.
With plenty of open space and pet-friendly pathways, Growwild makes it easy for your furry guest to feel right at home.
4. Practical Tips for Keeping Pets Comfortable
Weddings can be overwhelming for pets, with all the unfamiliar faces, sounds, and activities. Preparing ahead can help your furry friend stay calm and happy throughout the celebration.
Comfort Tips for Pets:
- Pre-Wedding Visit: Bring your pet to the venue before the wedding day to help them get familiar with the surroundings.
- Hydration and Shade: Provide a shaded spot with water to keep them cool, especially for summer weddings.
- Calm Zone: Set up a quiet space where your pet can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. A soft bed and a few toys can make a big difference.
Considering the spacious gardens and shaded areas at Growwild, there are plenty of places for pets to relax between photos and festivities.
5. Furry Friend Wedding Favours
If you’re a pet-loving couple, extend the love to your guests by including pet-themed wedding favours. This is a thoughtful way to celebrate your bond with your own pet while also delighting your animal-loving guests.
Pet-Friendly Favour Ideas:
- Personalised Dog Treats: Custom biscuits shaped like bones with a tag that says, “Thanks for celebrating with us!”
- Adopt a Pet Station: Consider a donation to a local animal shelter in honour of your wedding day.
- Pet Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with fun props for guests to snap pictures with images of your pet.
Small touches like these make the day feel even more special and reflect your shared love for animals.
6. When to Leave Your Pet at Home
As much as we love our pets, sometimes the most loving choice is to leave them at home. If your pet is particularly anxious, dislikes crowds, or the weather is too hot, it might be kinder to have them stay in a safe, familiar environment.
Consider Leaving Your Pet at Home If:
- They get anxious around large groups of people.
- They aren’t comfortable in new environments.
- The wedding will involve fireworks or loud music.
If you do choose to leave them at home, consider a pet sitter and ask your photographer to capture a few pre-wedding shots with them to include in your wedding album.
Conclusion
Including your pet in your wedding day can make an already magical day even more special. With a bit of planning, some thoughtful touches, and the pet-friendly policies at Growwild, your furry friend can be right there beside you as you say, “I do.”
Book Your Tour Today
Ready to plan your pet-friendly wedding at Growwild? Contact us to schedule a tour and start making memories with your favourite four-legged friend.
Final Thought
From ring bearers to wedding photos, your pet is family—let’s make them part of your celebration.