🐾 Should You Include Your Dog in Your Wedding?

If your dog is part of your everyday life, they absolutely deserve a spot in one of your biggest moments—your wedding day.

As a wedding photographer (and dog lover!) here at Stella Kurek Photography, I’ve had the joy of photographing many beautiful weddings where dogs played a starring role. And trust me—those moments are unforgettable.

Why Include Your Dog in Your Wedding Photos?

Your dog isn’t just a pet—they’re part of your story. They’ve been with you through quiet Sunday mornings, long muddy walks, and maybe even the proposal. When you include them on your wedding day, you’re celebrating everything that makes your love story unique.

From my perspective as your photographer, dogs bring:

• Natural emotion – nothing staged, just pure connection

• Unscripted joy – wagging tails, licks, happy chaos

• Beautiful candid moments – you laughing together, your dog snoozing on your dress, and everything in between

These moments make your gallery feel real, warm, and so you.

📸 Tips for a Pawfect Wedding Day

Here are a few tried-and-true tips we’ll talk through during your photo planning:

• Choose a dog-friendly venue – especially if they’ll be there for the ceremony or portraits

• Assign a dog handler – someone to walk, feed, and love them while you enjoy your day

• Dress them simply – a floral collar, bow tie, or bandana photographs beautifully

• Pack essentials – treats, water, a leash, and their favourite comfort toy

• Plan dog portraits early – we’ll capture beautiful shots and then let them rest or go home

I’ll work with you ahead of time to plan the best way to include your pup—so it’s relaxed, stress-free, and full of joy.

Real Moments, Real Memories

Whether your dog is your flower pup, ring bearer, or just popping in for golden-hour portraits, their presence adds personality and love to your wedding photos. You’ll look back years from now and remember exactly how that moment felt—because your dog was there, too.

At Stella Kurek Photography, I specialise in telling real, emotional stories through timeless, relaxed photography. Including your dog? That’s just part of telling the full story.

Because every great love story should include muddy paws.