I was recently researching places for my husband and I to go away for the weekend with our two dogs. I searched high and low for reasonably priced accommodation that was 'pet-friendly.'
I got close to booking one place and when confirming their dog friendly policy, the lady on the other end of the phone politely told me that indeed the accommodation was dog-friendly, but to them, that meant your dog was chained up outside the cottage each night and not allowed inside.
Naturally I kept searching until I found a 'real' pet friendly retreat where the dogs were in fact allowed indoors with us. This made me think about wedding venues, and the problems that brides often encounter when trying to find a gorgeous venue that's actually pet-friendly.
I've heard of some hotels that have rooms for pets to go to chill out, kind of like a green room for pre-wedding pet fun.
Here I've devised a list of questions to ascertain whether or not a venue is REALLY, pet-friendly and if it's right for your wedding:
1. Are the pets allowed inside the rooms? (Seems like common sense but you never know!)
2. Are there any areas where pets can't go? You don't want to end up getting married at a pet-friendly venue that has their ceremony venue area strictly off limits for four-legged guests.
3. Are meals also prepared for pets on the premises? I've heard of many stories where couples will have special meals made for their pets so they can enjoy them at the reception. This also takes away having to arrange for someone to feed your dog separately.
4. How many pets can we have with us during our stay? Some venues allow only one dog per room, which can be a problem if you've got two hounds. Also inquire about size limits. There are venues that only allow for small dogs to stay.
Above all, do your research and read referrals and testimonials to see what sort of experience others have had. Your wedding day is one of the most important days in your life. You want to make it as special and as stress-free as possible.
Photograph: Lost and Found Photography