For many couples, a wedding day would not feel complete without one very important guest: the dog.

After all, dogs are family. They are there for the everyday moments, the big life changes, the quiet evenings, the muddy walks, the sofa cuddles and everything in between. So when it comes to celebrating one of the biggest days of your life, it makes perfect sense that many couples want their four-legged friend there too.

At Kilminorth, we absolutely love seeing dogs at weddings. There is something so joyful about it. A dog walking down the aisle, sitting proudly beside guests, appearing in photographs, stealing a little bit of attention, or simply being part of the day in their own wonderfully chaotic way. It brings personality, warmth and a little extra happiness to the celebration. Kilminorth has always been a dog-friendly place. Dogs are welcomed with open arms, not just tolerated. So it feels only natural that they are often part of weddings here too. Our countryside setting lends itself beautifully to dog-friendly celebrations. With space, gardens, cottages and outdoor areas, dogs can be included in a way that feels relaxed rather than stressful. For couples who cannot imagine saying “I do” without their dog nearby, Kilminorth offers a setting where that feels possible.

Of course, every dog and every wedding is different. Some dogs are calm, patient and perfectly happy to sit through a ceremony. Others are excitable, noisy, easily distracted or far more interested in snacks than vows. But that is all part of the charm. We have seen dogs take on all kinds of wedding roles. Ring bearer, flower dog, guest of honour, photo companion, emotional support, chief tail-wagger, or simply beloved family member. Some wear bow ties or floral collars. Some walk down the aisle. Some appear for photographs and then head off for a rest. Some are involved all day. There is no right or wrong way to include your dog. It is about what works for you, your wedding and your dog’s personality.

For many couples, having their dog at the wedding is not about creating a perfect moment. It is about creating a meaningful one. Dogs have a way of making things feel real. They break the ice, make people smile and often become one of the most memorable parts of the day. A dog at a wedding brings a lovely sense of home to the celebration. Weddings can be emotonal, busy and full of anticipation. Having your dog nearby can be grounding, especially in those quieter moments before the ceremony. A wagging tail and familiar face can do wonders for calming nerves.

They also make for the best photographs. Whether it is a posed portrait with the couple, a candid moment on the grass, a dog trying to get involved in the dress, or a guest sneaking them a cuddle, dogs add so much character to wedding galleries. At Kilminorth, the surrounding grounds offer plenty of beautiful photo opportunities. Dogs can be part of those moments naturally, whether walking through the grounds, sitting with the couple or joining in with group shots. The result is always personal and full of warmth.

The cottages also make dog-friendly weddings easier. If you or your guests are staying on-site, it gives your dog a comfortable base. They can be part of the day when it suits them, then have somewhere familiar to rest when things become too busy. That is something worth thinking about when planning a wedding with a dog. As much as we love including them, their comfort matters too. Weddings are exciting for humans, but they can be a lot for dogs. Music, crowds, food, children, new smells and lots of attention can be overwhelming.

A little planning makes all the difference. Having a trusted person in charge of your dog for the day is always a good idea. Someone who knows them well, can take them for walks, give them water, keep them calm and quietly take them away if they need a break. It also helps to decide which parts of the day your dog will be involved in. They do not have to be present for everything. They might join for the ceremony and photos, then head back to the cottage. Or they might arrive later for relaxed outdoor moments. The best plan is the one that keeps everyone happy, including the dog.

We also love how much guests enjoy seeing dogs at weddings. They naturally bring people together. Guests stop to say hello, children are delighted, and there is always someone ready for a cuddle. Dogs have a way of softening the atmosphere and making everything feel a little more relaxed. That fits perfectly with the kind of weddings we love at Kilminorth. Personal, welcoming, full of character and centred around what matters most to the couple.

A wedding should feel like you. If your dog is a huge part of your life, then including them can make the day feel even more special. Whether they walk down the aisle, join the photos, wear a little bow tie, or simply make a brief appearance before heading off for a nap, dogs bring something truly wonderful to a wedding day.

They bring joy, laughter, and love in its purest, waggiest form.

And here at Kilminorth, four-legged guests are always welcome.