wedding ideas

Creative and Unique Guest Book Ideas for your Wedding Reception

Consider ditching the traditional guest book for a totally lit one, no more snooze fest for the guests or a book you will never read again! Check out these creative wedding guest book ideas that are fire!

Surfs up for beach wedding couples looking for creative and unique guest book ideas to surprise their guests! Photo Credit: BluePhoto Photography.

One trend that has everyone dripping with thirst are the twists on the classic wedding guest book ideas. Nobody wants their book to be like everyone else’s. And you cannot bypass this tradition. We all want wedding memories, otherwise why the selfies, the photographer, videographer and all that comes with it? These well wishes are something to do at a reception, and it needs to be done in style. So check out these TD guest book ideas and get or DIY yours!

Related: Fabulous Wedding Centerpieces That Will Take Your Breath Away: Our Top Picks

What Size Guest Book Should I Get?

Estimate that the book should fit about 60% to 70% of your total guest count. This number could go down to 50%, if you invited many couples. Don’t go overboard as it’s better for guests to be searching for the empty spot than to have too much room to add their well-wishes.

Guest Book Ideas So Pretty and Original You May Use As Home Decor

Usually the wedding guest book ended up gathering dust somewhere in the house never to be seen again. Therefore, the trend of having a signature book that could be used as a statement piece in your home makes more sense. First, because it will make you smile every time you see it just for remembering those beautiful memories. Second, its cost is an investment in your home decor! Pick something really original that you will cherish for a long time to come. Am i right?

Rocking 3-D wedding guest book idea to adorn your home.

Now, this is a fab guest book alternative to have this memory turn into a conversation piece. Have the guests sign an Adirondack that will later adorn your backyard.

Have your guests sign an Adirondack or a plain lawn chair. That way your guestbook won’t end up hidden away in storage.

Related: Wedding Table Number Ideas and Alternatives You Will Love

Adorable signature board you may use as home decor via Etsy.

Polaroid Wedding Guest Book Ideas: Selfies and more Selfies

We love the look of Polaroids, old and new. Vintage-themed receptions call for a Polaroid selfie guest book. Your guests’ photos will be instantly printed – after a few shakes – and they can write on the back their wishes for the newlyweds. But not every guest will want their picture taken, so it might be best to have an alternative way of signing the guest book. We also like the idea of having an attendant take the pictures – assign the task to a member or two out of your bridal squad.

Make a banner of the Polaroids and hang them all on some board.

Add instructions for your guests, something like “You Smile, We Snap, You Sign, We Cherish.” Another alternative is to look into more products that produce instant film, like printers that hook up to smart phones. That way they can take a picture on their phone and pick which one they’d like to print over bluetooth, and finally attach it where ever you’re asking them to.

This is a fab idea to be able to remember who was who at your wedding!

The Shadow Box Guest Book: One of our Favorites

Shadow box guest books are so versatile, they fit any wedding theme, From rustic to boho to glam all the way up to Magic Kingdom cute! You can give your guest a fu way to interact with your wedding day and, later on, you can hang them on your wall!

Disney wedding guest book alternative with the cutest box and castle ever via Etsy.

Winery weddings can leverage the theme and include quite an original guest book idea. Corks in a shadow box!

Unique Guest Book Ideas to Surprise Your Guests

There are lots and lots of creative ideas to help your guests give their well-wishes to the happy couple! Forget the dull and boring signature books and go for one of these gnarly and unique guest book ideas instead. Provide small sheets of note paper and ribbon, Jenga blocks, wine corks or any other surface can can imagine for guests to sign.

Go ultra vintage. Grab a few records and gold sharpies. They can be framed afterwards to decorate your walls. Photography: Sarelle photos.

DIY Jenga guestbook wedding idea! You will need: the Jenga wooden pieces, a few thin point black sharpies, a large clear bowl and a table. Voilá!

Love this DIY Jenga guestbook wedding idea.

Fingerprint Guest Book Ideas: A Very Popular Option

Ask your guests to leave their fingerprint or their signature or both!

Unique wedding guest book ideas. Colorful thumbprints everywhere!

Related: 37 Stunning Balloon Decoration Ideas for Weddings (and a Few DIYs)

¿Classic Wedding Tree Guestbook or a Canvas?

Follow our directions to decide on the size of these wedding guest book alternatives. Having empty leaves, balloons or spaces won’t look that good and you do want to feature these little masterpieces on your walls, don’t you?

Wedding guest book canvas with colorful balloons. Love the matching color of the heart and the birds for this wedding tree guestbook.

Wedding guest book canvas with colorful balloons via Etsy. Love the matching color of the heart and the birds for this wedding tree guestbook.

Ultra Affordable DIY: The Wedding Puzzle Guest Book

Why not add some fun and games to the reception with a wedding puzzle guest book? You can make one out of a photo of the couple or just out of your favorite jigsaw puzzle. A great and pretty cheap idea!

Woohoo! Let’s put the guest book puzzle together after the wedding!

On this day and age traditional guestbooks are antiquated. Why spend money on something that is likely going to sit on a shelf and get dusty? Have your guests sign something you will display or use constantly. Your guests will be delighted to see that you chose something totally different and original for them to add their well-wishes!

RELATED WEDDING INSPO IDEAS

Discover More Stunning Wedding Ideas

Photo Credits: glamourandgraceblog, theoverwhelmedbride, weddinginclude, deerpearlflowers, ohbestdayever.

by Havi G.

Wedding Table Number Ideas and Alternatives You Will Love

These wedding table number ideas and alternatives will come in handy when it’s time to decide how to get your guests to their seats in style. Forget the traditional or boring numbers and go for memorable and unique. Just like you!

Interesting idea. It doesn’t have to be numbers. What works is a single bold icon or message.

Make a statement at your reception with this fabulous roundup of wedding table number ideas.

These cute little markers really come in handy, not only to guide your guests to their seats but for the waiters when they have to serve special meals to your guests, such as vegetarian or gluten free. So, do not skip over them if you are planning on hosting a sit-down dinner!

Besides, some of these wedding table number ideas are so simple that not copying them would be a crime.

We are also sharing the steps on how to DIY some of these alternative wedding table number ideas.

Related reading: 30+ Wedding Table IdeasL What To Put On Wedding Reception Tables (Wow Your Guests!)

Wedding Table Number Alternative Ideas To DIY in Minutes

1Love watercolors. They are perfect for boho style, summery beach weddings Why not add a touch of color to your wedding table numbers? The watercolors depicted here are printables on a card holder. You may also insert them in the middle of your centerpieces.

Table numbers with modern calligraphy and blush watercolor backsplash displayed in card holders at The Madison Club.

2Hear ye! Hear ye! Romantic couples here is a DIY for your wedding table numbers. Grab a cardboard shape, a stick, glue, and chalkboard paint and you are ready to go.

DIY wedding table number ideas.

3These wedding table number ideas could be the inspiration for the entire wedding theme, amiright? A very simple DIY. Table number holders and a deck of cards will do the trick.

Wedding table number alternative ideas you can DIY in minutes.

Related: 37 Stunning Balloon Decoration Ideas for Weddings (and a Few DIYs)

4How good are you at calligraphy? It really doesn’t matter because you can purchase gold decals to add the number to these rocks. Or you can draw them yourself with a gold gel pen.

Wedding table number idea for a Utah wedding. Photo: Leo Patrone Photography.

5A classic. There’s nothing wrong with tried and true wedding table number ideas. The modern touch: place it on top of the table runner.

Modern table number at a New Hampshire wedding. Photo: Rodeo & Co Photography.

6Looking for wedding table number ideas to add some modern flair to the boring ones you have? Wrap them with some twine or jute for a relaxed rustic look.

Adorable and fun table numbers idea.

7This is an easy DIY for a darling table number holder. Tie three wine corks with a ribbon and glue some bling to it. Insert the card with the number in between the corks. Voila!

Corks, ribbons and bling for a simple table number holder.

Original and Unique Wedding Table Number Ideas

8Beach weddings can get really creative with their table numbers. Mason jars filled with sand, seashells and a card table number held by a cork or wood sliver. Or enjoy your seaside wedding with adorable table numbers in a bottle.

Love this for a beach wedding. Mason jars filled with sand, seashells and a card table number held by a cork or wood sliver.

Beach wedding table numbers.

9This piece could be a photo table number, a centerpiece and a great conversation starter at the same time. Your guests will be able to find their tables and break the ice with these original wedding table number ideas.

Romantic and nostalgic wedding table number ideas.

Read more: How to seat guests at your wedding for a lively celebration

10Add a little glam to your table number cards with silk ribbons and a brooch. Want them ready made? Get them on Etsy.

Table number cards from Etsy.

11Colorful weddings deserve distinctive table numbers.

Flag table numbers. Photo: Ruth Eileen Photography.

12Clothespin table number holders are a cute, affordable and original idea. You can stick them on a potted plant and you can clasp a number, a photo or any name you would like to give your wedding tables. You can get them on Etsy.

Clothespin table number holders for outdoor weddings and you can even shove them in the sand.

13Transform your salt and pepper shakers into table number holders by adding a round wire. Make sure to fill them up with buttons or shells so they don’t fall down from the card’s weight.

Transform your salt and pepper shakers into table number holders. Fill them up with buttons or shells so they don’t fall from the number’s weight.

Related: 38 TD Glass, Lucite and Acrylic Wedding Decor and Details

14I love the bent fork! Replace the reserved sign with a number marker and you’ll have one of the most original table numbers out there.

Oak Tree Manor, Houston. Photo: Alyse French Photography.

15If you are feeling crafty and have wooden slabs and enough nails handy, create your very own and personalized table numbers.

Modern stainless steel table numbers.

Connecting Personal Passions with Wedding Table Numbers

16Maybe Charlie gets too restless around people but you still want to include him in your wedding. Maybe you are an animal lover. Paws down, these pet wedding table number ideas make for an excellent alternative!

Pet wedding table number ideas to include your furkid in your reception decor.

17Horseshoe and chalkboard. Another very original way to incorporate your passions into your wedding table numbers. Elegant rusticity.

Horseshoe table number.

18Book lovers can transform their table numbers into a fantastic conversation piece with this fab idea.

The first chapter of your lives together is about to begin. Why not reflect it on your wedding table numbers?

19Artistic couples can express their passion for the arts by painting the number markers on burlap. You can frame them and place them together with the centerpiece at each table. Talk about personalized decor! 😉

Painted burlap table numbers for the artistic couple.

20Is gardening your passion? Show off your green thumb with a succulent centerpiece and table number all in one.

Creative ways to use potted plants in your wedding decor.

21If you met at a cafe and would like to recreate the same atmosphere, get inspired by their wedding table number ideas.

If you met at a cafe and would like to recreate that atmosphere, get inspired by these wedding table number ideas.

22Vintage stamped spoons will be a delicate addition to your wedding table.

Hammered spoon table numbers.

23Show off your style with a unique sailboat table number.

Upgrade your style with a unique sailboat table number.

Keep on browsing more table number ideas!

Discover More Stunning Wedding Ideas

Photo Credits: Deer Pearl Flowers, The Crafted Blog, Karas Vineyard Wedding Shop, wedding chicks, Remodelista, SheSaid, kunstkammer, livvy hukins, nostalgiarentals, perfect wedding, sweeteyecandycreations.

by Havi G.

Wedding DIYs, Wedding Inspiration, Wedding Themes

Christmas Wedding Ideas with Just the Right Touch of Holiday Cheer

We’ve rounded up some incredible Christmas wedding ideas for those couples planning their nuptials at this time of the year. Check them out! 👍

Christmas wedding ideas with urban style. Add some red berries to your wedding bouquet. Photo: Sarah Sidwell Photography, Nashville, Tennessee Photographer.

Get inspired by these stunning Christmas wedding ideas. Unique, delicate and fabulous winter wedding decor that will have your guests basking in the magic glow of the season in no time.

Maybe you are in love with Christmas, maybe Christmas has a special meaning to you, but the last thing you want is for your wedding to look like Santa’s workshop. These Christmas wedding ideas will subtly turn your ceremony into a delicate winter affair with just the right dose of holiday cheer.

Christmas Wedding Colors: Forget the Red, Green and White

Unless you want your reception tables to look all white, red and green, these winter wedding colors will definitely wow your guests.

If you are after that coveted Christmas wedding season glam, go for colors and textures that are rich and luxurious. Add dark moody and jeweled tones to your napkins and candles. The latest trend is all about tall tapered ultra dark blue or black candles.

Switch the traditional white for Pantone’s Almost Mauve, it will look incredible on your tablecloths. If you want something more conventional try some shades of gray, natural linen, or antique white. They will make for subtle supporting colors to a white wonderland table decor.

Is this the North Pole? Christmas wedding ideas to welcome your guests.

Christmas Wedding Ideas: Venue Decor

An extensive array of candlelights and lanterns will create a romantic yet festive atmosphere. Even tealights placed in mason jars sing songs of a quaint but bucolic look. Nevertheless, be sure to check with the venue first. Opt for battery-powered substitutes if they have a “no open flame” policy. Plus the shimmering lighting, a glitter explosion can give your winter wedding decor that extra fancy look.

Adorn baubles and tinsel on garlands and trees for a twinkling effect. Just don’t go overboard. Sweep a staircase or a fireplace with greenery garlands to highlight your venue’s features.

For outdoor weddings, take advantage of the crisp colors of the winter landscape and welcome your guests in style.

Festive Christmas wedding ideas: string lights are your budget-friendly friends.

A vintage dream come true and almost out of a fairytale. Vintage wedding reception decor, vintage chair and oversized gold frame with greenery garland. Photo: Jo Bradbury.

Mix floral and non-floral elements to create your winter wedding bouquet.

Winter Florals for Christmas Weddings

Floral fragrances and beautiful colors aren’t just for summer weddings. An opulent winter wedding floral arrangement can be warm and add grandeur to this truly magical event. Moody colors are “in” and they are perfect for Christmas weddings.

Dark red roses will help you achieve a classic and timeless look. And for a crisp wintry feel, white roses or baby’s breath will do. Use them on floral arrangements or on your bridal bouquet.

But the traditional red and white palette shouldn’t be a constraint; berry hues or Pantone’s Ultra Violet can be equally magical. White flowers with deep moody accents can bring magic to your winter nuptials.

Try some mistletoe above the altar for your symbolic Christmas wedding kiss.

Make your Photo Booth from a frame with a floral arrangement. Inexpensive and spells Holiday time.

Moody forest weddings are all the rage right now. Style your table with an evergreen runner, crystal glasses and tall dark tapered candles.

Winter Wedding Ideas to Style your Reception Tables

Make your reception tables glow with gilded mirrors and gold hurricane vases. For a natural texture wintery feel, try garlands of greenery with blue shades of evergreens and eucalyptus as table runners.

Try decorating your place cards with single sprigs of fir and pinecones. Also, wintery branches and berries can be used to complement the table-settings at your Christmas wedding.

For a low-key but festive shindig, tie ribbons and evergreen boughs to the bride and groom chairs, it will hold some seasonal appeal.

Add some blue to the sugar stirrers for coffee and dessert.

Christmas weddings don’t necessarily need to be celebrated on Xmas day. So, just steal some rad winter reception ideas.

Add some woodland touches to your Christmas wedding drinks.

Christmas Wedding Ideas Photo Gallery that Truly Inspire

A Few DIYs for Centerpieces with Holiday Cheer

To get the snowy atmosphere your Christmas wedding deserves, get a hold of some pinecones and branches. These natural elements look terrific especially when placed in faux snow candle glass containers. Spray-paint them with rose gold or silvery grey for a glam metallic look.

Imitate trees in winter to give your Christmas wedding just the right touch of holiday cheer. You can dip them in gold paint or silver glitter.

If you are going for a sophisticated rustic chic setting, incorporate a centerpiece that matches your Christmassy theme. Utilize gold or silver candleholders and complement them with dark green foliage.

Here’s another centerpiece you can craft in minutes. Get some mercury glass votives from the thrift store. When used delicately enough, votive candleholders and metallic vases, along with a touch of glitter, can become a breathtakingly shimmery setup.

Adorable DIY pinecone and candle centerpieces for Christmas weddings.

An instant hit of a centerpiece: A bit of faux frost will sit well with your table florals.

These Christmas wedding ideas are super budget-friendly. Surround your candles with cinnamon sticks and your reception will even smell like Christmas.

Gold chargers, green glasses, and red floral will give you the Christmas atmosphere you are looking for. Moriah Elisabeth Photography.

DIY Gallery with Christmas Wedding Ideas

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Christmas Wedding Ideas for your wedding Party

Concoct a couple of leafy crowns for your flower girls. They will look adorable! Get inspired in jewel-tone colors such as emerald green, sapphire blue or ruby red for your bridesmaids dresses.

Mix floral and non-floral elements to create the bouquets. The groomsmen can sport some cute Rudolph socks – only visible for the photo-op! 🙂

Dark red florals and sequined bridesmaids dresses by Sorella Vita.

Snow machine send off for a Christmas wedding at the Biltmore in Atlanta, GA. Photography: Rick + Anna.

Winter Wedding Food Ideas that Scream Holiday Cheer

No wedding is complete without warm food, peppermint and chocolate, winter and Christmas go really well together. Put together a cocoa bar station. Sprinkle it with colored or white rock candy to stir the hot beverages with. It will be a delight for the senses.

Needless to say, some hearty meals and sweet chocolate cakes with cherries or mint will hit the spot. And don’t forget to give away some refreshing peppermint bark favors!

Romantic Christmas wedding sign, “Baby it’s cold outside.”

Cannot get more tempting that this Mounds layer cake for the Holiday season.

We hope these Christmas wedding ideas help you make your joyous occasion even more unique and special. And if you are just planning to spend this time with friends and family, feel free to steal some of these winter wedding ideas for your table.

Happy Holidays! And remember to check out these amazing and budget-friendly ideas for a winter wedding!

Discover More Stunning Wedding Ideas

Photo Credits: Domino, Deer Pearl Flowers, mywedding, greenweddingshoes, Brit Morin, HappyWedd, The First Year, Syan Ying, Hi Miss Puff, The cottage Market, Confessions of a Cookbook Queen, something turquoise, Heidi, simplelittledetails, Just imagine

by Havi G.

Wedding Planning

Why you Should Consider Hiring a Day-Of Wedding Coordinator

If your budget is tight or you are a DIY couple, day-of wedding coordinator services are a must. Find out what they are, what they do and how much they cost.

A day-of coordinator is of great assistance to the bride and wedding party.

Enter the day-of wedding coordinator, a sweet trend to help couples on a budget and brides who really want to get involved in their wedding planning, fully enjoy their D-day.

What is a Day-Of Wedding Coordinator?

Plain and simple, a day-of wedding coordinator is a planner hired to help with management and support on the big day.

Although called “day-of,” they don’t just show up on your wedding day and work magic. They meet with you in advance should really be called, month-of coordinators.

A day-of wedding coordinator becomes the director of the event. She coordinates the flow, the timing of your hired vendors, and makes sure your wedding is as you have envisioned it.

Unlike full-service wedding planners, day-of wedding coordinators aren’t in charge of the whole planning process. Instead, they work together with the couple to ensure the smooth running of things through the rehearsal dinner and the day of the nuptials.

Some planners specialize in these types of services but full-blown wedding planners may also offer a day-of coordinator package. So, if you are in love with a wedding planner’s work but your budget is too tight to hire him to organize your whole wedding, ask if he offers day-of services. 😉

Relax and enjoy your first dance with the peace of mind that a day-of wedding coordinator can give you.

Difference between the Venue Coordinator and the Day-Of Planner

While the venue coordinator will usually assist you during the reception on the venue’s behalf, the day-of planner will be by your side the whole day. The day-of coordinator will run the rehearsal, setup and cleanup, deal with your guests and help you with your decor.

Some venue coordinators may go the extra mile. When in doubt, ask and be specific.

A day-of coordinator will create your day-of timeline mapping all of the arrival times, setup times and more, than need to happen for a flawless event.

Your day-of wedding coordinator will be in charge of giving the final head count to your caterers.

Why Hire a Day-Of Wedding Coordinator?

Of course, come D-day, you would need someone to guide your guests, coordinate with vendors, and make sure everything runs smoothly. From floor plans to cake placement to lighting levels, someone needs to set the mood and determine what’s appropriate.

You may be trying to save a few bucks by having your bestie take care of all this. But remember, she may not be an event planner, she’s also a guests, and you are not paying her…

Hiring a day-of wedding coordinator will give you the piece of mind that you will need. Place everything in the hands of a skilled professional. It’s your wedding day. Live a little!!

Coordination of rehearsal, ceremony, cocktail hour and reception are some of the tasks the day-of coordinator will tackle for you.

Day-Of Wedding Planner Services: What They can do for You

Besides consulting with you well in advance of your D-day, visiting the venue, and conducting the wedding rehearsal the day before, day-of planners will be the go-to person so your day goes as amazingly as you always dreamt it would be.

Day-of wedding planners are skilled and effective at vendor coordination and turning your vision into a reality.

If you are planning your own wedding, hire a day of coordinator.

Day-of wedding coordination services will make your big day the reality you’ve worked so hard for.

Before the Wedding Day

They will meet with you and consult to understand your vision and what you expect to happen on your wedding day. One or two venue walk-throughs will be performed, depending on the hired package. The day-of planner will also create your wedding-day timeline and manage your wedding rehearsal.

They may even suggest vendors and share planning tools to help out with the organization of your big day.

Day-of wedding coordinators will do a site visit with you and understand what you want your wedding day to look and feel like. Then, they will run the show.

With prices that start at the low 800’s and the peace of mind these professionals provide, this is a must for all DIY couples. Libelle Photography.

On the Wedding Day

On your big day, your day-of wedding coordinator won’t only run emergency deliveries or directing photo schedules, but also fend off obnoxious guests wanting to see the bride as she is getting ready!

From helping you get ready for the ceremony, guiding the bridal party through the processional and recessional to the cocktail hour, dinner and dance, these experienced planners work their magic.

Being in charge of details like giving the final head count to the caterers, a day-of coordinator is of great assistance to the couple and their wedding party. A day-of wedding coordinator will sign for deliveries, send necessary info to vendors, amongst other details. They really take away the stress and work at a very reasonable cost.

With day-of wedding coordinators, it eventually becomes an “all in a day’s work” affair. Like checking for menus, napkin folds, and placement of favors, they ensure every detail looks flawless. For gift collection and inventory, you would need a point of contact to keep things moving and that’s where the planner comes in.

The day-of wedding coordinator becomes your go-to person in case of any itch, concerns, or unexpected, last-minute hiccups till you drive into the sunset with your partner. Someone in charge of the “dirty work” as you enjoy your day.

Love is when you only have eyes for the other person.

Enjoy your styled photoshoot session knowing that somebody is taking care of the details. Lian Rokman 2018 wedding dress collection.

Wedding Inspiration for your Day-Of Planner

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How Far in Advance should You Hire a Day-Of Coordinator?

Day-of wedding coordinators are actually hired well in advance of your wedding day. Depending on the planner and the services offered, you may even have to book your day-of wedding coordinator four or five months ahead of D-day.

At the very least you should allow four to six weeks for your coordinator to get acquainted with you, understand your vision, do a walk-through of the venue, meet with your vendors and prepare your wedding timeline.

Some day-of coordinators can jump in at any point of your wedding planning process and ensure that you have a flawless wedding day.

Let your family and friends enjoy the day as guests and not wedding coordinators.

Enjoy your day and look stunning in an off the shoulder number by Studio Levana.

Day-of Wedding Coordinator Cost

Depending on the size, geographical location, and complexity of the wedding, a day-of package could start at $700 or $900 onwards. Not bad for giving yourself peace of mind on your wedding day, right? 😉

Destination wedding planners may also offer day-of coordinator services. Just ask.

With day-of wedding planners by your side, you will be able to relax and enjoy your wedding day to the fullest. Are you thinking of hiring a day-of wedding coordinator now? Now, let’s cover the basics and a few eccentric ideas to organize the most legendary wedding after-party ever.

Let your wedding party and framily enjoy your big day as much as any other guest. A day-of wedding coordinator will take on all of the stress of managing D-day.

Wedding receptions are meant to be enjoyed to the fullest. DIY all you want but hire a day-of wedding coordinator.

Discover More Stunning Wedding Ideas

Photography Credits: utahbrideandgroom, girlyard, icasei, Praise Wedding, thelakecomoweddingplanner, TheLane, Inspiring Pretty, Brides, wedding butlers, himisspuff, Bridal Musings, Strictly Weddings, Huffpost, ArchZine FR

by Havi G.

Wedding Inspiration, Wedding Planning

How to Include Pets in your Wedding, Best Tips and Ideas Ever!

Do you know how to include pets in your wedding? We bring you a ton of fabulous advice and the cutest and most original ideas to have pets in weddings.

The maid of honor holding the bride's bouquet. Pups in weddings. Photo: kdrouetphotography UK.

The maid of honor holding the bride’s bouquet. Photo: kdrouetphotography UK.

Paws down, having pets in your wedding will make for a memorable experience. A new cool trend exploding in popularity among animal lovers. With your furry or feathery friend by your side as you tie the knot, your special day will carry that cuteness in a unique and fun way.

Of course, our pets being family and a huge part of our day-to-day life, it’s only natural to include them in your big day festivities. Check out these ideas and tips on how to include pets in your wedding.

What to Consider Before Including Pets in your Wedding

If you are having pets in your wedding, there are a few things you must consider.

First, what do you envision your pet doing at your wedding?

Are you going full doggo with your wedding plans, or you just need Buddy to look sharp in a tuxedo? An integral part or just a bystander? Will your cat pose for a styled photoshoot or will you have your beloved horse wear a flower crown? Of course, if your wedding venue does not allow pets, Bella may have to miss out on being the ring bearer.

Grooming!

You want your pal to look her best. Because all dogs are beautiful right? But if you combine them with a fresh ‘do and some pretty florals or bows, you’ve reached a whole new level of cuteness!

Beautifully groomed, this Bichon Frise is ready to walk down the aisle with the flower girls.

Professional groomer Julie Cohen of Atlanta, recommends at least one grooming session before the wedding and another one the day of.

Some breeds, like Schnauzers, Bichon Frise or Poodles should get started on a grooming schedule at least six weeks before the wedding.

Julie Cohen, groomer extraordinaire, gives us amazing advice to have our furry pals looking their best at weddings. Atlanta.

Know your pets’ temperament

It would help you in deciding the role you’d would want them to play come the big day. Can your pet endure hordes of strangers and loud music? Does Missy like being around people, or does she growl or hiss at strangers? Does Charlie get restless after a while of being petted?

If your pet is the latter, set aside a specific area for your dog—visible but not touchable by loving, petting guests. You may also restrict your pet’s appearance to a specific moment or to a casual or styled photoshoot.

This Yorkie is loving the attention! Pets in weddings. Photo: Ava Moore Photography.

This Yorkie is loving the attention! Photo: Ava Moore Photography.

He’s family after all, so why not have the first dance? Photo: your perfect wedding photographer UK.

Have a petsitter around

Or someone the pet is comfortable with. You can’t always say with pets; a stray squirrel or mouse may have them dashing off for the exits. Having a stand-by pet whisperer will help keep things under control while you are busy saying your vows.

The petsitter will also be in charge of feeding and walking your pet besides making sure she doesn’t dive into any chocolate!

Pet mishaps. Make sure they are well watched, a pet-sitter will come in handy.

Give folks a heads up about the presence of pets in your wedding.

Allergies are a troubling thing, so precautions must be taken. You wouldn’t want allergic guests feeling miserable or looking all sniffly on the photos!

A distinctive way to incorporate pets in your wedding, a cute flower crown that matches her eyes!

Let your wedding photographer know.

He may bring along a pet photographer to capture your pet in action!

well trained furry friends will steal the show at your wedding ceremony.

Care for your four-legged friends’ safety too

Identify potential outfit hazards before the nuptials. Groom and prepare your dog for that big day. Don’t let him run around the yard. You wouldn’t want a muddy mutt bearing the ring! Have them cleaned and, if you’ve so chosen, properly dressed for the occasion.

White collars with flowers and bows and matching leash for your best pups. Via LA Dog Store and Collar Habit on Etsy.

8 Adorable Ways to Include Pets in your Wedding

Can’t imagine your big day without your best friend? Let’s face it – incorporating your dog in your wedding will make the happiest day of your life even happier. So here are a few adorable ways to include pets in your wedding.

A pair of cuffs and he is ready for the occasion! Magnific casual shot by Jihan Abdalla Photography, Los Angeles.

1If you are going to dress and accessorize your pets, let it be comfortable and harm-free for the pet. Choose a color that doesn’t just contrast against the fur color – white on a Bichon would get lost – but also matches the wedding theme. If your pet would shake off that beautiful hat or remove the bandana, fur painting could be an original option.

Adorable ways to include pets in your wedding. Pick from a styled photoshoot, riding your horse or a sweet flower crown.

2It might sound cliché, but nothing draws more gasps of admiration from guests like a trained dog walking down the aisle as the ring bearer or flower girl. With nail polish on your quadruple’s pedicure, to tiaras on her head, your pet will look outstanding as it paws through your special day.

If your dog is properly trained, feel free to have her pose on a special chair. Amiright? Cutest pets in weddings.

3Let’s not forget the possible delights of silky veils, bowties, lace, and taffeta! Moreover, if your pet isn’t the “flower carrying” type, get collars of floral blossoms and greenery to serve the same purpose.

More and more pet owners are finding adorable ways to include pets at weddings. Photo: wedding-retoucing.

4If you know your best friend would prefer to stay at home, have him accompany you by having your pet’s photo on napkins, portraits, or even table number cards.

Another way to incorporate your pet in your wedding table numbers.

5A canine theme may require that you delight guests with doggie-themed wedding favors. From creative party favors to pet-themed decor, having pets in your wedding is an awesome way of cementing your affection for your furry or feathery companions.

Bandana “Cat of Honor” wedding collar via Etsy.

6Do a snazzy photo shoot with your pets, and engrave the occasion forever with creatively styled pictures. Prepare your photographer to capture the best moments with both planned and freestyle shots with framily and pets.

Best dog at wedding! Ultra snazzy pup-tux. Photography: Wedding Retouching.

7The outdoors are perfect when having pets in your wedding reception — as they can run and romp in the surroundings. Remember that the best moments are usually unplanned.

Those eyes and that face! If your dog can keep a flower crown on, try this out!

8Other more uncommon pets, like bunnies, tea-cup pigs and horses can be made part of your celebration too! Add them to your save-the-date photo or spiff them up with wreaths, crowns and glorious bows.

Ring bearer dog harness with pillow and matching leash. Pick the accent ribbon color. Via Etsy $59.95.

More Ideas for Pets in Weddings: Check out this Gallery!

Let these pictures inspire you with the cutest ideas to have pets in your wedding celebration! Now, check out these original and stylish wedding ideas for your big day. 🙂

Know the temperament of your pet. He may get tired soon and want to rest with mommy.

Discover More Stunning Wedding Ideas

Photo Credits: Julie Cohen Atlanta, TwoGoneCoastal, onewed, the Knot, Colin Cowie Weddings, Petra, Bridal Guide Magazine, fabyoubliss, Hi Miss Puff, pawnation, Elizabeth Anne Designs

by Havi G.

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What to Consider Before Including Pets in your Wedding

First, what do you envision your pet doing at your wedding?

Grooming!

Know your pets’ temperament

Have a petsitter around

Give folks a heads up about the presence of pets in your wedding.

Let your wedding photographer know.

Care for your four-legged friends’ safety too

8 Adorable Ways to Include Pets in your Wedding

More Ideas for Pets in Weddings: Check out this Gallery!

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