Pet-friendly weddings: Adelaide City Guide

A pet-friendly wedding can go from dream to disaster if not planned right. After all, an eager pup who wants to have a piece of the wedding cake or simply chase a stray seagull mid-ceremony can create some unwanted drama.

That’s why pulling off a beautiful pet-friendly wedding ceremony in Adelaide starts with a great plan and, first and foremost, a great destination!

Adelaide, often called the City of Churches, is known for its beautiful historic buildings. And while the city is a hidden cultural gem and surrounded by scenic wineries, finding a pet-friendly destination can get tricky!

But that doesn’t mean those dream destinations don’t exist.

We’ve looked all over Adelaide to find the best spots where your furry friends can join in. This guide will help you have the perfect pet-friendly wedding in Adelaide, making sure your pets can celebrate with you.

Make a Paw-Friendly List to Save Your Sanity

We know that planning a wedding is a lot of work. And it can be easy to overlook, or simply forget, a few tasks.

That’s why making a list to make your wedding pet-friendly is a challenge you need to tackle: from a pet-friendly wedding destination to your pup’s outfit, to finding the perfect pet wedding sitter for your big day! This list will reassure you that everything’s been taken care of, because you’ll have enough on your mind already!

PS: It can be helpful to run through your pup’s routine and needs for your wedding day: from arriving at the venue to walking you down the aisle or carrying the rings, to taking food and  bathroom breaks.

Thinking this through ahead of time will help you list down which services and items you need. as on the day it can be easy to overlook these things. Run through your pet’s schedule with whoever will be caring for your pet on the big day as they might not be so familiar with their routine. That way, you can relax and enjoy yourself, knowing your pet is in great hands.

The Search for Pet-Friendly Wedding Venues in Adelaide

Whether you wish to tie the knot in a rural garden venue with wet weather provisions or prefer an intimate elopement, Adelaide has something for you. 

Our top picks for paw and in this case, even hoof-friendly destinations, include The Templewood House. Its dreamy meadows immersed in lush green gardens are magical, and the high paddock with 360-degree views makes for a beautiful backdrop!

Another hidden gem that offers rustic gardens for a ceremony amongst the trees, is Inglewood Inn. Once you’ve selected a pet-friendly wedding venue in Adelaide, be sure to run through our checklist of queries with your venue and/or event manager. They might even have recommendations for recommendations for pet sitters and photographers.

Plan Your Pet’s Logistics Carefully

Whether your venue is in the scenic Barossa Valley or the picturesque Adelaide Hills, you’ll need to ensure you arrive and leave without any delays.

That’s where pet wedding attendants in Adelaide offering services can help. For example, Silly Wagz and I Do Paws offer convenient solutions for pet sitting and pet transportation. Leaving it to the experience pros means you’re not going to have to worry about frantic calls from a relative wondering where you left the dog treats while you’re getting your makeup done.

Just be sure to think about the timing of your pet’s arrival: would they be more at ease arriving before the crowd to acclimatise, or would they prefer making a dramatic entrance later? 

Assess whether they should stay by your side during the entire ceremony or if they’d be happier showing up just for the photo session. Organising their day around their comfort, rather than merely your schedule, ensures they enjoy the celebration as much as you do.

Incorporate Pet-Friendly Decor and Favors

It’s one thing to be there, but it’s even better to be part of the décor!

Celebrate your pet’s role in your special day, consider incorporating pet-themed decor or wedding favours. This could be as simple as using paw print motifs in your stationery or offering guests custom-made treats to take home for their pets.

Such thoughtful touches not only make your wedding unique but also highlight the importance of your pets in your life.

Ensure Their Comfort and Happiness

Whether your venue is a charming McLaren Vale winery or an inner-city event space, consider the environment that will make your pet happiest.

Some pets may appreciate a quiet spot away from the noise for occasional breaks, while others might enjoy mingling with guests throughout the event. Adapting the day’s activities to fit your pet’s personality and comfort level is crucial. 

Hiring a pet wedding attendant in Adelaide can ensure your pet is happy and well-taken care of.  For example, if your pet is not used to large crowds or loud music, arranging for them to be part of the ceremony but then resting quietly away from the reception may be best. This way, they can enjoy the celebration without becoming overwhelmed or anxious.

Open Communication is Critical

Transparency is key when planning a pet-involved wedding, so be clear about your expectations and plans with everyone involved in the process. From the photographer who will capture your pup in action to your guests, especially ones who may have pet allergies.

Include a note in your invitations or on your wedding website about your pet’s attendance. This notice allows guests to prepare accordingly, particularly people with allergies or children who may be afraid of dogs.

This small step ensures everyone’s comfort and enjoyment on your big day.

Paw-sitive Affirmations and Promises

Now for the fun, or should we say, ‘pun’ part! When it’s time to say your vows, throw in a few fun lines to cement your fur baby’s importance in your lives . Like, ‘I promise to always let you have the second-biggest share of the bed, after Milo of course.’  

This doesn’t just add a heartfelt and humorous touch; it also reflects the love you have for your pet!

Prepare for the Unexpected

Accidents happen! But there’s always disaster management.  

Even with the best planning, pets can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan in case your pet decides they’re not up for the spotlight on your wedding day. Again, a great pet wedding chaperone can prevent a lot of last-minute oopsies.

If your pup needs a quiet, comfortable place to retreat to or someone to take them home, they can step in while you continue to celebrate your day, knowing well that your pup is safe and happy.  

Remember, when planning your pet-friendly wedding in Adelaide, your pet’s well-being should come first, even if it means tweaking your plans a little.