Celebrating Love and Loyalty in South Carolina’s Lowcountry

The South Carolina Lowcountry, with its mossdraped oaks, historic plantations, and sun-kissed beaches, has long been a dream destination for couples tying the knot. In recent years, a heartwarming trend has emerged: the inclusion of beloved canine companions in wedding celebrations. From walking down the aisle to starring in photo sessions, dogs are taking center stage in lowcountry nuptials.

A Flourishing Wedding Destination

South Carolina hosted 34,542 weddings in 2023, with the lowcountry region, comprised of Charleston, Hilton Head, and Bluffton, being a significant contributor. Charleston alone sees over 4,500 weddings annually, thanks to its blend of historic charm and natural beauty.

Notable venues include:

Boone Hall Plantation: Famous for its oaklined avenue and appearances in films like The Notebook, it’s a top choice for romantic ceremonies.

Montage Palmetto Bluff: This Bluffton resort hosted Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin’s wedding, offering luxury amidst nature.

Middleton Place: A National Historic Landmark with America’s oldest landscaped gardens providing a picturesque backdrop for vows.

Furry Friends Join the Festivities

A growing number of couples are choosing to include their dogs in their wedding celebrations. A survey revealed that 94% of dog owners planning a wedding intend to involve their pets in some capacity.

Popular roles for dogs in weddings include:

Ring Bearers: Carrying rings down the aisle.

Best Dog or Dog of Honor: Standing beside the couple during the ceremony.

Flower Pups: Adorned with floral collars, walking ahead of the bride.

Photo Participants: Featuring prominently in wedding portraits.

To accommodate these roles, many couples are seeking pet-friendly venues. In fact, 83% of pet parents expressed a preference for venues with pet accommodations.

Professional Pet Chaperones: A Growing Industry

The inclusion of dogs in weddings has given rise to specialized services. Professionals like Dog Tired Pet Services offer a full range of wedding services for four-legged clients, including pet taxis to and from the venue (as long as the venue is dog-friendly), boarding and spa packages, and even pick-up and drop-off from hotels, Airbnbs, and more. They’ll get your pup dressed in their wedding best, keep them cool and happy throughout the event, and yes—they’re not above doing a silly dance behind the photographer to make sure those ears are up and that smile is perfect.

Dressing the Part

Canine wedding attire has also become a trend. From bow ties and tuxedos to floral collars and dresses, dogs are often styled to match the wedding theme. Approximately 49% of dogs at weddings are dressed up, with many couples investing in grooming and outfits to ensure their pets look their best.

Creating Lasting Memories

Including dogs in weddings not only adds a personal touch but also creates memorable moments. Photographers like our very own staff photographer, Jacqueline Clark of Southern Vintage Photography, capture candid shots of pets interacting with guests, participating in ceremonies, and even sharing in the couple’s first dance. These images become cherished keepsakes, celebrating the bond between couples and their furry companions. Southern Vintage Photography is one of the most popular wedding photographers in the Lowcountry and they thoroughly enjoy capturing the moments when pets are involved in weddings too.

The Lowcountry’s enchanting landscapes and historic venues provide the perfect setting for weddings that celebrate both human and canine love. As more couples choose to include their dogs on their special day, the region continues to adapt, offering pet-friendly options and services to accommodate this heartwarming trend. In South Carolina’s Lowcountry, weddings are truly going to the dogs—in the most delightful way. ■