Incorporating Your Dog into Your New England Wedding: 6 Heartwarming Ideas

Photo courtesy of Gina Brocker Photography

New England weddings are known for their charm, scenic beauty, and rich traditions. Whether you're saying your vows in a cozy Vermont barn, on the rugged Maine coastline, or in a historic Massachusetts farm estate, your wedding day is bound to be filled with special moments. And for dog lovers, what better way to make those memories even more meaningful than by including your loyal companion in the celebration?

Here are seven heartwarming ways to incorporate your dog into your New England wedding.

1. Dog as the Ring Bearer. One of the most adorable ways to include your dog in your New England wedding is by having them serve as the ring bearer. Imagine your pup walking down the aisle with a little cushion or basket carrying the rings. It's sure to be a crowd-pleaser and adds a fun, personal touch to your ceremony.
To ensure everything goes smoothly, you’ll want to do a few practice runs before the big day. You can either have your dog walk down the aisle on their own, or be led by a trusted friend or family member. You could also dress your dog in a cute little tuxedo or flower collar (see above!) that matches the wedding’s theme.

2. Dog-Friendly Wedding Photos. Including your dog in your wedding photos is an easy and heartwarming way to capture your love for each other and for your furry friend. New England’s stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for memorable shots with your pup. Whether you’re in the scenic White Mountains of New Hampshire, on the shores of Cape Cod, or among the charming autumn foliage of Connecticut, there are countless picturesque locations to include your dog in.

Before the wedding day, arrange a time with your photographer to take some special "family" photos. Some couples even incorporate their dog in their engagement shoot to tell the full story of their relationship. A dog-friendly photographer will know how to capture the right moments without stressing out your pet.

3. Create a Special “Dog of Honor” Role. Why not make your dog feel like the VIP they truly are by giving them an official role in the ceremony? A "Dog of Honor" or "Best Dog" could be a cute alternative to the traditional bridal party roles. If your dog is particularly well-behaved, they could stand by your side during the ceremony or even be featured in the pre-ceremony processional.

You can also involve your dog in other parts of the day, such as leading you down the aisle or being the center of attention during the first family photo. Don’t forget to provide them with a special collar or outfit that makes them feel like a true part of the wedding party.

4. Dog-Themed Wedding Favors. Even if your dog can’t attend the wedding in person, you can still incorporate their spirit through thoughtful wedding favors. New England couples are known for their personalized touches, so why not give your guests a token to remember your dog by?

Ideas include custom dog bone-shaped cookies, dog-themed mini candles, or even personalized dog bandanas with your wedding date on them. If you're having a barn wedding in Rhode Island or a beach wedding in Maine, a donation to a local animal shelter in your guests’ names can also be a great way to honor your dog and support a good cause.

5. Dog-Inspired Wedding Cake Topper. Wedding cake toppers are a fun and creative way to reflect your personalities and interests. A dog-themed topper is a whimsical way to honor your furry friend and can easily be customized to match your wedding's theme. Whether you opt for a cute figurine of your dog or a more stylized version that captures their likeness, a dog-inspired cake topper adds a personal touch that guests will love.

Some couples even choose to have a “pet portrait” cake topper or have a baker create a cake that looks like their pet. If you're a fan of rustic charm, consider a topper that features your dog in a natural setting, such as sitting in front of a barn or a leafy autumn backdrop.

6. Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Invitations. For couples who want to feature their dog early in the wedding process, consider incorporating your pet into your wedding invitations or save-the-date cards. Use a professional photo of your dog, or perhaps even an illustration of them in a wedding theme. A cute shot of your dog with the wedding rings, a bouquet, or a bowtie could be the perfect preview for your wedding day.

Another way to feature your dog on the invitations is to add a personal story about how they became a part of your lives. This is especially meaningful if your dog has been with you throughout your entire relationship, and it adds a sentimental touch to the invite.

New England offers the perfect setting for a wedding filled with natural beauty, charm, and tradition. By including your dog in the celebration, you create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether they’re serving as the ring bearer, starring in your wedding photos, or simply being a part of the festivities, there are countless ways to honor your beloved pet on your big day.

As you plan your New England wedding, remember to prioritize your dog’s comfort and well-being. With a little planning and creativity, your dog can be an unforgettable part of your wedding celebration.
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Special thanks for all the locally owned wedding and event venues across the country who inspire us daily:
Triple T Farm
The Barn at Poplar Springs Farm
Legacy Farms TN
Sunnyside Farm
The Bella Sera