Don’t Leave Your Fur Babies Out of Your Big Day - Austin Wedding Planners

f you're a pet parent, you already know — your furry friends are part of your family. So when it comes to planning one of the most important days of your life, why not include them in your celebration? Whether your venue isn’t pet-friendly, your pup gets nervous around crowds, or your cat simply prefers lounging at home, you still have options for including your fur babies in your big day. At Ashley Nicole Affair, we’ve seen it all — from pets walking down the aisle to adorable cardboard cutouts that party right alongside the guests. Here are some of our favorite ways to honor your pets at your wedding!

🐾 Walk Them Down the Aisle

If your venue allows pets and your furry companion is comfortable around people, having them be part of your ceremony is a beautiful and heartfelt gesture. They can:

• Walk down the aisle with a flower collar or cute tuxedo

• Be the “ring bearer” or “flower pup”

• Sit up front with your family members and witness your vows

We’ve even coordinated “first looks” with pets, and the photos? Absolutely unforgettable.

🐶 Cardboard Cutouts for the Reception

If your pet can’t physically be at the wedding — no problem! Life-size cardboard cutouts of your dog, cat (or even hedgehog — yes, we’ve done that!) can make a playful and personal appearance at your reception.

You can place them:

• On the dance floor so it feels like they’re celebrating with you

• Near the bar with a custom “signature cocktail” sign named after them

• By the photo booth so guests can snap selfies with your fur baby

Trust us — your guests will LOVE it, and it makes for such fun conversation starters.

🐾 Incorporate Them Into Your Decor & Details

There are so many sweet ways to feature your pet throughout the wedding experience:

• Custom cocktail napkins or drink stirrers with their face or name

• Signature drinks named after them (“The Barkarita” or “Whisker Sour,” anyone?)

• Wedding favors with pet-themed packaging

• A custom cake topper that includes your pets

• Guest welcome signs that say “Welcome to our paw-ty!”

🐕 Hire a Pet Attendant

Yes — this is a real thing! There are professional services that will bring your pet to your wedding, handle them throughout the day, and make sure they’re safe, calm, and photo-ready. That way, you get all the joy of having them there without worrying about logistics.

Final Thoughts

At Ashley Nicole Affair, we believe weddings should reflect your full love story — and that includes your pets. Whether they’re wagging their tail down the aisle or popping up as a cardboard cutout on the dance floor, there’s a way to include them that fits your style, your venue, and your pet’s personality.

Need help bringing your pet-inclusive vision to life? Let’s plan it together.🐾💍

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Blog by Ashley Nicole Affair – Austin, TX & Destination Wedding PlannersFollow us on Instagram @ashleynicoleaffair for more ideas and behind-the-scenes cuteness!