Furry Friends and Hooved Guests: A Heartfelt Look at Animals in Wedding Ceremonies
Weddings are about love, commitment, and—more often than not—the people (and pets) who’ve been part of the journey. As couples move away from cookie-cutter traditions and lean into more personal, meaningful touches, we’re seeing a beautiful rise in including animals in wedding ceremonies. From loyal Labradors to regal horses and even cheeky little donkeys, four-legged wedding guests are showing up at the altar in the most charming ways.
Dogs in Wedding Ceremonies: Not Just Guests, but Family
It’s no surprise that dogs are becoming wedding ceremony staples. For many, a pup is more than a pet—they're a best friend, a constant companion, even a calming presence amid wedding planning chaos. Seeing a dog in a floral collar or tuxedo harness trotting down the aisle, tails wagging, is an emotional moment in itself. Some serve as ring bearer dogs, others escort the flower girl, but most just steal the show without even trying.
There’s something grounding about having a dog present at such a formal event. They remind us to breathe, to laugh, and to soak in the moment. It’s not about perfection; it’s about love—and few beings love us more unconditionally than our dogs.
Photographed by: Morgan Marie Photography
Horses at Weddings: Drama, Elegance, and Timeless Romance
Then there are horses—icons of romance, strength, and natural elegance. The image of a bride arriving on horseback evokes fairy tale magic, but there’s more to it than visual impact. For couples who’ve grown up riding or who have strong equestrian roots, including horses in wedding ceremonies feels not only natural, but symbolic.
There’s a quiet power in sharing vows while a favorite gelding stands nearby, braided and bedecked in garlands. Horses bring a kind of stillness to the day that balances the whirlwind of celebration. They don’t rush. They don’t fuss. They just are—and in that way, they hold space for something sacred.
Photographed by: The Hardcastles Photography
Donkeys at Weddings: The Unexpected Scene Stealers
And then, of course, there are donkeys. More specifically, miniature donkeys at weddings—who have carved out a niche in rustic, farm, and outdoor wedding venues. They're not just adorable—they're crowd-pleasers with undeniable personality. Whether they’re carrying flowers, escorting a bridesmaid, or showing up at cocktail hour with baskets of beer, wedding donkeys bring levity and charm that few other elements can match.
There’s something disarming about a donkey in a flower crown. They don’t take themselves too seriously, and maybe that’s the point. Amid the pressure to make every detail “perfect,” a donkey reminds everyone that joy is messy, sincere, and a little unexpected.
Photographed by: Brenda C Photography
Why Including Pets in Your Wedding Makes It Personal
What makes the presence of animals at weddings so powerful isn’t just the novelty—it’s the authenticity. These aren’t just decorative touches; they’re deeply personal inclusions that reflect a couple’s life together. Maybe it’s the golden retriever adopted in college, the mare ridden since childhood, or the rescued donkey that won everyone’s heart.
As long as their welfare and comfort are kept front and center, animals can play beautiful, meaningful roles in weddings. Not because it’s trendy, but because it feels right.
And honestly? Watching a dog nap during vows or a donkey bray mid-speech might just be the kind of unforgettable moment that makes a wedding truly yours.
Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue Before Booking
Planning your dream wedding starts with choosing the right location. Your venue sets the tone for your entire day — from the atmosphere to the flow of events and even your photos. If you're currently searching for the perfect wedding venue in Kentucky, asking the right questions early can save you time, stress, and money.
At Highland Stables, a popular barn wedding venue in Bowling Green, we've helped countless couples turn their wedding vision into reality. To help you make the best decision for your big day, we’re sharing the top 5 questions every couple should ask a wedding venue before booking.
1. Is my wedding date available, and how far in advance should I book?
Before falling in love with a venue, confirm availability. Top venues — especially for spring and fall weddings — book quickly. We recommend reaching out at least 12-18 months in advance if you have a specific date in mind.
2. What is included in the wedding venue rental fee?
Don’t assume — ask exactly what’s covered. Some venues include tables, chairs, décor, and setup, while others are more bare-bones. At Highland Stables, our wedding packages are flexible and include many of the essentials you need to simplify planning.
3. What happens if it rains or the weather changes?
If your dream includes an outdoor wedding ceremony, it’s crucial to have a solid backup plan. Ask whether the venue offers indoor alternatives or weatherproof setups. Highland Stables offers both stunning indoor and outdoor spaces — giving you peace of mind no matter what Mother Nature has in store. Take a look at our photos to see how our spaces can be beautifully adapted for any weather.
4. Can we bring in our own wedding vendors?
Some venues require you to use a preferred vendor list, while others offer full freedom. If you have a favorite wedding caterer, florist, or photographer, make sure the venue allows outside vendors — or check that their recommended partners align with your style and budget.
5. What are the venue access times on the day of the wedding?
Ask when your team can arrive for setup and when cleanup needs to be complete. Understanding the wedding day timeline helps with coordination and avoids last-minute surprises. At Highland Stables, we work with each couple to create a seamless schedule that suits their celebration.
Ready to Tour a Stunning Wedding Venue in South Central Kentucky?
Asking these questions will help you feel confident and informed as you plan one of the most important days of your life. If you’re looking for a rustic yet elegant wedding venue near Bowling Green, KY, Highland Stables offers charm, flexibility, and personalized service to bring your vision to life.
Schedule a tour today and discover why couples fall in love with saying “I do” at Highland Stables.
Big Love, Small Guest List: The Sweet & Simple Way to Wed
Weddings are all about love, connection, and creating memories that last a lifetime. But let’s be honest—bigger isn’t always better. That’s why micro weddings are quickly becoming one of the most beloved trends in the wedding world. At Highland Stables, we believe that small celebrations can still be stunning, meaningful, and unforgettable. That’s why we’ve created our Sweet and Simple – Micro Wedding Package, designed especially for couples who want an intimate yet elevated experience.
What’s a Micro Wedding?
A micro wedding is a scaled-down celebration, typically with 25–50 guests, focused on quality time with the people who matter most. Smaller doesn’t mean lesser—in fact, micro weddings allow for a more personal, curated day where you can truly savor every moment.
Why Choose a Micro Wedding?
Intimacy: With fewer guests, you can focus on meaningful interactions and create a cozy, warm atmosphere.
Less Stress: Fewer moving parts mean easier planning and more time to enjoy your day.
Budget-Friendly: You can have a high-quality experience without breaking the bank.
Creative Freedom: More flexibility to personalize your celebration with thoughtful details.
The Sweet and Simple Experience
Our Sweet and Simple – Micro Wedding Package starts at $2,500 and is perfect for couples who want to host a beautiful, memorable day with their closest friends and family. You'll have exclusive access to our scenic venue for 5 hours, with thoughtful amenities designed to make the experience both smooth and special.
Optional add-ons—like styling assistance, décor access, and coordination services—are available to help you personalize the celebration even further.
Note: Additional rental hours are not available with this package.
Photographed By Nicole Lenia Kiser
Say “I Do” to Sweet & Simple
Whether you're planning a more intimate first wedding, renewing your vows, or simply embracing the charm of a smaller gathering, Highland Stables offers the perfect backdrop for your special day. Our micro wedding package is designed to make the experience beautiful, stress-free, and filled with heart.
Ready to plan your dream micro wedding?
Contact us today to learn more about the Sweet and Simple Package and schedule a tour of Highland Stables.