The pet pandemic era has shaped this years’ favourite wedding trend as couples are increasingly looking to give their furry friends a starring role in their special day. As searches for ‘pets at weddings’ are up 200% since 2020, award-winning Tunbridge Wells’ based venue dubs it the ‘biggest trend this year’.
A total of 3.2 million households in the UK have acquired a pet since the start of the pandemic, according to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association, so it’s no wonder so many brides and grooms are choosing to include their four-legged friends in all the fun.
The recent data from Google comes as no surprise to Salomons Estate who has seen a sharp increase in the number of enquiries from brides looking to book pet friendly ceremonies.
“For some, it’s non-negotiable. Many of the brides we speak to book with us on the basis that dogs can be present for the ceremony, photos, and drinks reception” said commercial sales manager Courtney Smith.
From delightful miniature outfits to adorable photography, the wedding venue who took first place in the ‘Best Events Team’ category at the Kent Wedding Awards [KWA] 2021/22 have seen loved-up pet owners go as far as making their fury friend a ring bearer, flower girl and groomsman!
Amongst the biggest wedding trend of 2022, the venue also lists grazing tables and outdoor pizza ovens as popular options amongst their guests along with the return of big weddings as they make a come comeback after the pandemic.