5 Reasons Why You SHOULD Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

Relationships are a journey and getting a pet together is often viewed as a destination you arrive at along the way. To some, it is just as important as having children, buying a house, and getting married. Pets play an integral role in enhancing and nurturing relationships, contributing a unique dimension of companionship and connection.

The care and attention required for a pet create opportunities for couples to collaborate, communicate, and build a sense of teamwork. Furthermore, pets offer unwavering emotional support, reducing stress and providing comfort during challenging times. Their presence fosters moments of joy and laughter, injecting positivity into the relationship.

Photographer: Chris Freer

Venue: Inn on the Lake

Have you ever thought about incorporating this all-encompassing love into one of the most significant days of your relationship?

The Lake District is the most dog-friendly region in the UK; it often happens that you can count more dogs walking along the street than humans. If having your furry family member as part of your wedding is essential to you, then the Lake District is the perfect destination for your wedding.

Here are some reasons why you absolutely should include your dog in your wedding:

1. Symbol of Unity

As a couple, you often bond over your shared love for your dog and the responsibilities that you tackle together to ensure that they are cared for and happy. A wedding is essentially the coming together of two lives, having your shared dog present reinforces this sentiment. Allowing your furry family member to join you at your wedding is a beautiful symbol of unity, signifying the merging of ALL loved ones, both human and canine.

Photographer: Adam Grills

Venue: Lodore Falls & Spa

2. Stress Relief

Weddings can be stressful, but having your dog by your side can help you to feel comforted and alleviate tension. In every-day life, our dogs serve to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness – so, who is more qualified than them to help us feel relaxed and confident on our wedding day? A moment with your dog before your wedding can help you to feel calm and remind you of the unconditional love and joy that awaits you on the other side of those vows!

Photographer: Jason Chambers

Venue: Inn on the Lake

3. Photograph Opportunities

Dogs are natural charmers; they will add an endearing and heart-warming touch to your wedding photos. Unfortunately, we all know that our dogs can’t be with us forever. They dedicate their whole lives to us whilst we only have that responsibility for a small portion of our own. These photos will be treasured for years to come and will serve as a reminder of the bond that was created with your spouse by your shared love for your pet.

Photographer: Chris Freer

Venue: Inn on the Lake

4. Role of Honour

There are various roles that people bestow upon their furry family members at weddings, such as: ring bearer, ‘dog of honour’, ‘flower dog’, ‘best dog’. Including this in your wedding allows a comedic aspect, generating laughter which ensures that your wedding starts with a warm, happy, wholesome vibe. Imagine the flurry of delight among your guests as they see your dog padding up the aisle in their fitted suit or dress!

Photographer: Chris Freer

Venue: Inn on the Lake

5. Personal Touch

Weddings should be personal and tailored to the bride and groom. So, if your dog is a big part of your life then you absolutely should allow them to attend! It is YOUR day, and it should be perfect for you. Other animal lovers attending the wedding will adore the heart-warming gesture. By including your dog in your wedding, you’re creating an inclusive atmosphere that acknowledges the importance of your pet and welcomes them into this significant moment.

Photographer: Jason Chambers

Venue: Inn on the Lake

Incorporating your beloved dog into your wedding day is more than just a trendy choice; it’s a heartfelt decision that can infuse your special day with deeper meaning. As you embark on this journey of love and togetherness, your furry companion can stand as a symbol of unity, a testament to the shared responsibilities and joys that have shaped your relationship.

Dog-friendly wedding venues in the Lake District

We have two wedding venues available which are dog friendly and can cater to both intimate and larger ceremonies.

If you’re looking for an iconic lakeshore destination, the Inn on the Lake is set amidst fifteen acres of landscaped grounds which sweep down to the shores of Ullswater. The venue has stunning suites and the outdoor Lakeside Gazebo, meaning your wedding will be perfect in all seasons.

Photographer: Jason Chambers

Venue: Inn on the Lake

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a venue with a luxurious spa, the Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa is the ideal location for you. Similarly, there is the option of the Garden Gazebo as well as our beautiful indoor suites. This venue offers idyllic photo opportunities with natural scenery of Cat Bells Fell and Lake Derwentwater.

Photographer: Chris Freer

Venue: Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa

Please note, although both hotel venues are dog-friendly and we love welcoming pooches, dogs are not permitted in the indoor wedding reception rooms. This includes the Lake View Restaurant at Inn on the Lake and Derwent Suite at Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa. If it happens to rain, they are permitted inside for the ceremony only. However, this has never proved to be an issue in the past with the help of great dog minding services available close by: our wedding teams both recommend Thea’s Lakeland Walks for an affordable and professional service.

Our wedding venues offer stunning scenery which helps you to immerse yourself in the beauty of your special day. Don’t just take our word for it, see for yourself!