If you’re a proud dog mom, cat dad, or fur baby parent, there’s no way you’re walking down the aisle without your beloved pet being part of the celebration, right? 🐾

In fact, for a lot of Atlanta couples, including your pet in your wedding photos isn’t just a cute idea, it’s a must-have memory. From walking down the aisle with your pup to those sweet first-look photos where your dog steals the spotlight, pets can add a whole new level of love and joy to your big day.

So how do you pull it off without the stress? I got you covered. Here’s a full guide on how to include your fur baby in your wedding photos and make sure they shine right alongside you on your big day.

1. Decide on Their Role in the Wedding

First things first, how involved do you want your pet to be? They can:

  • Walk down the aisle as a flower pup or ring bearer

  • Stand next to you during your vows

  • Be a part of your first look

  • Pop in for some fun bridal party shots

  • Simply be in the getting-ready or portrait moments before the ceremony

Some couples bring their pets to the entire wedding day, while others have them come just for photos before or after the ceremony.

Pro tip: Talk it over with your partner and your photographer early so you can plan around your venue rules and your pet’s personality.

2. Choose a Pet-Friendly Venue

Not every Atlanta venue allows pets, especially inside. So if your pet will be attending the ceremony or reception, look for pet-friendly wedding venues.

A few great pet-friendly venues in Georgia:

  • The Engine Room (Monroe)

  • Juliette Chapel (Dahlonega)

  • The Greystone Estate (Ball Ground)

  • Outdoor parks like Piedmont Park, if you’re doing an outdoor elopement.

If your venue doesn’t allow pets, you can still take photos nearby and have a handler bring your fur baby to the location for a short session.

3. Hire a Pet Handler or Have a Trusted Person Help

Your wedding day will be busy. And let’s be real handling a hyped-up pup in a tux while you’re wearing your dream wedding dress? Not ideal.

Hire a pet wedding attendant or ask a trusted friend or family member to:

  • Walk and care for your pet before and after photos

  • Keep them calm and happy

  • Bring them home or to a boarding facility after their wedding cameo

This keeps things smooth for everyone, especially your photographer.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice!

Leading up to the big day, practice basic commands like sit, stay, and walking nicely on a leash. If they’ll be carrying a ring box or wearing an outfit, let them wear it around the house first.

And if your pet tends to be shy around crowds, maybe stick to quiet pre-ceremony photos instead of including them in the main event.

5. Dress Them Up (Comfortably)

There are SO many adorable wedding outfits for pets—bow ties, floral collars, tiny tutus, full tuxedos. Just remember:

  • Keep outfits lightweight and comfy.

  • Avoid anything that restricts movement or causes overheating (especially in Atlanta heat!).

  • Make sure they’re used to wearing it before the big day.

Some Etsy shops and local Atlanta pet boutiques sell customized wedding collars and leashes that perfectly match your wedding colors.

6. Plan Your Photo Moments

Once you know when and where your fur baby will join you, work with your photographer to plan your shot list. Some ideas:

  • First look with your dog running up to you

  • Candid shots of your pet giving kisses during getting-ready photos

  • Walking down the aisle as the ring bearer

  • Portraits with the whole bridal party and your pup front and center

  • A sweet moment of your pet snuggling at your feet during your ceremony

  • Sunset photos with your fur baby as the family you’ve created

Pro tip: Bring treats and toys to grab their attention for the camera!

7. Have a Backup Plan (Because Pets Are Pets)

Listen, your dog might be camera-shy on the big day, or your cat may decide the outdoors isn’t their vibe. And that’s okay.

Have a backup plan in place, like taking their photos at home before the wedding or scheduling a post-wedding shoot with your pet where there’s no pressure or crowds.

8. Safety First!

Your wedding day will be filled with new sounds, scents, and lots of people. Be mindful of your pet’s comfort and safety:

  • Bring plenty of water, food, and waste bags.

  • Create a quiet space where your pet can chill if they’re overwhelmed.

  • Keep them on a leash (unless in a fully enclosed space).

  • Watch out for wedding food, flowers, or decor that could be harmful if chewed on.

9. Capture Their Personality

Don’t worry about getting that perfectly posed shot. The best photos capture your pet’s true personality.

  • A goofy grin

  • Tongue out running toward you

  • A head tilt when they hear your voice

  • Curled up in your lap during portraits

Those are the moments you’ll love forever.

10. Include Them in Your Details, Too!

Even if your pet can’t physically attend, there are still so many ways to include them:

  • Add their face to your cake topper

  • Include them on your wedding invitations or signage

  • Name your signature cocktail after them (“The Bailey-tini” anyone?)

  • Wear custom cufflinks or jewelry featuring their paw print

  • Have a photo of them at the guest book table or memorial display

It’s your day—celebrate your whole family, fur babies included.

Bonus: What About Cats, Bunnies & Other Pets?

Dogs may be the most common wedding guests, but we love ALL the fur babies. If your cat, rabbit, or even your bird is a part of your family, you can still include them in your wedding photos.

Schedule a special at-home photo session where they’re most comfortable. Those sweet shots of your cat lounging on your dress or bunny nibbling near your bouquet will be priceless.

Love Is Better with Fur Babies by Your Side

Your wedding day should reflect your love story—and if your pet is a big part of your story, don’t leave them out. Whether they’re walking you down the aisle or just popping in for a few portraits, your fur baby deserves a little spotlight, too.

Just plan ahead, put their comfort first, and trust your photographer to capture all the love and joy they bring.

Ready to create beautiful wedding day memories with your fur baby? Let’s make it happen. 📸🐾

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