Can I bring our dog to my wedding ceremony?
I’m the pup man to Wanda, the most ridiculous spaniel that ever lived. So I understand why couples want to find a dog friendly wedding venue for their wedding. They’re a huge part of the family and you can’t imagine them not being there on your important day! Central London is becoming more dog friendly and there’s many London wedding venues that allow dogs (and other pets) in. Here are my top five dog friendly wedding venues in London that I’ve enjoyed photographing at.
Dogs at Islington Town hall wedding ceremony
As a London wedding photographer I’ve been photographing weddings at Islington Town Hall for over a decade. However, they’ve only just started allowing dogs and pets to attend weddings here as of this year. In the past I’ve had couples keep their dog outside with a friend during the ceremony and include them in some couple photos. I’ve already photographed some sweet puppers watching their pawrents get married!
Dogs at Lea Rowing Club The Boathouse Bar
Lea Rowing Club in East London is a perfect dog friendly wedding venue. It’s by the river and right next to a huge park so you can take your dog out for some calming sniffs and a breather if needed. I photographed a wonderful Wes Anderson themed wedding here complete with the instafamous Maple who showed up in a matching floral collar piece to the bride.
Dog friendly wedding venue Studio Jones
Sometimes you want your dog as more than a guest. Sometimes you want them to play the important role of doggy ring bearer. That’s what this couple decided to do at the East London wedding venue Studio Jones. He was the bestest boy and most excited ring bearer!!!
Loft Studios wedding photographer
I love Loft Studios, I feel very fortunate every time I’ve been asked to photograph a wedding at Loft Studios. The team are so fantastic, the space always looks great even though the decor is different with every couple putting a unique stamp on it. This couple had their parents’ dogs with them all day, from the bridal prep suite through to the evening. They were two little chill pups, and for most of the day they slept in the bridal suite room. One of them came down to the party!
Tips for bringing your dog to your wedding
Having seen lots of wonderful dogs at weddings, here’s a few tips from my experience. Firstly, make sure it’s something your dog will be comfortable at. A wedding day is full of energy and noise. If you have a dog that is likely to get anxious or overstimulated, either make sure they have the chance to get away for a sniff walk, or limit the time they’re at the wedding.
On a related note, have one guest, friend or family member that the dog knows well and feels comfortable with who is in charge of your dog. You want someone to keep an eye on any toilet needs, so you don’t have to pay a cleaning charge from the venue! If your pup is being a ring bearer, make sure you tie it onto their collar TIGHT. As you can see from some photos, some dogs are super excitable and will likely run to their owner, you do NOT want a ring flying across the ceremony room!
So I hope that advice helps you plan your London wedding that your dog can attend, if you want to book a dog confident wedding photographer then look no further!
