How to Include Pets in your Charlotte Wedding
Planning a pet-friendly wedding? Discover how to include your furry friend — from walking down the aisle to starring in photos — at Redbird Ridge Estate, one of the most beautiful pet-friendly wedding venues for couples who can’t imagine saying “I do” without their pets.
Celebrate Love and Your Pet at Redbird Ridge Estate Wedding Venue
At Redbird Ridge Estate, couples are encouraged to celebrate every member of their family — including the four-legged ones. As one of the region’s most pet-friendly wedding venues, Redbird Ridge Estate has become a dream destination for engaged couples who want to include their dogs, cats, or even horses in their wedding celebration.
From outdoor ceremony meadows, Mountain View ceremony locations, to scenic walking paths and comfortable reception areas, every detail at Redbird Ridge Estate is designed to make pets feel welcome and safe — because your love story deserves to include every heartbeat that matters.
1. Walking Down the Aisle: Let Your Pet Lead the Way
Nothing melts hearts faster than a dog proudly trotting down the aisle in a floral collar or bow tie.
At Redbird Ridge Estate, there’s plenty of open space and a calm, natural setting — perfect for pets who might feel overwhelmed by crowds.
Tips for success:
Rehearse the walk at the estate before your big day so your pet gets familiar with the space.
Designate a handler: Redbird Ridge offers staff recommendations for professional pet attendants who can escort your dog or cat during the ceremony.
Dress smart: Keep accessories light and comfortable — think bow ties, harness flowers, or a bandana that matches your wedding palette.
With the rolling hills and peaceful atmosphere at Redbird Ridge Estate, your pet’s big walk will be as graceful as it is adorable.
2. A Ring Bearer with a Tail Wag
Want a memorable (and Instagram-worthy) moment? Make your furry companion your ring bearer!
Guests will never forget the moment your dog trots up the aisle, tail wagging, to deliver the rings.
At Redbird Ridge Estate, couples often use the scenic courtyard or garden path for this charming entrance. The open layout and soft grass make it comfortable for pets of any size.
Pro tip: Attach the rings to a secure, lightweight pouch on your pet’s collar — and always have a backup human handler just in case your “best pup” decides to wander toward the buffet!
3. Picture-Perfect: Pets in Wedding Photos
Even if your pet isn’t part of the ceremony itself, wedding photos at Redbird Ridge Estate offer endless opportunities for portraits with your furry friend.
The venue’s golden-hour lighting, stunning sunsets, and natural meadows make every photo magical — especially when your pet is in it.
Here’s how to make it easy:
Schedule a first look session with your pet before guests arrive.
Bring their favorite treats or toy to grab attention for photos.
Work with a pet-friendly photographer familiar with movement and spontaneity.
You’ll end up with photos that tell your full love story — paw prints included.
4. When Your Pet Can’t Attend in Person
If your venue or travel arrangements make attendance tricky, you can still honor your pet at Redbird Ridge Estate in meaningful ways:
Display framed photos of your pet on the welcome table or bar area.
Name your signature cocktail after them (like “The Baxter Bellini”).
Incorporate their likeness into custom signage, cake toppers, or favors.
These thoughtful touches help guests feel your pet’s presence even if they’re not there in person.
5. Stress-Free Planning at a Pet-Friendly Wedding Venue
The beauty of choosing Redbird Ridge Estate is that you don’t have to figure it all out alone. The estate’s pet-friendly policies, on-site coordination, and spacious outdoor settings make it easier for couples to safely and happily include pets in their day. The on-site lodging in the estate’s historic cabin that sleeps 12 is also pet friendly. With a spacious fenced back yard and miles of trails to walk, your pet will never want to leave!
Before the big event:
Confirm pet policies and setup options with the venue coordinator.
Pack a pet kit: water bowl, leash, wipes, treats, and waste bags.
Plan for breaks — the estate’s shaded gardens are perfect for quiet moments between events.
Your pet will be just as comfortable as your guests.
Key Questions & Concerns Couples Have
Before planning your pet’s big wedding debut, it helps to think through a few important details. Couples often ask these questions when preparing to include pets in their ceremony or celebration — insights supported by photographers and wedding experts like Amy Soper Photography, Petful, Get Ordained Online, Elizabeth Bliss Events, and WedShed.
Venue Policies & Permissions
Is the venue truly pet-friendly? Are animals allowed indoors, outdoors, or only in specific areas (like the ceremony lawn but not the reception hall)?
Do you need to pay a pet fee or show proof of insurance?
👉 At Redbird Ridge Estate, couples can host pets in outdoor spaces and coordinate details directly with staff to ensure comfort and compliance.
Pet Behavior & Temperament
Will your pet handle the excitement — crowds, noise, heat, or attention — without stress or anxiety?
Is it realistic for them to take on a major role such as walking down the aisle or serving as the ring bearer?
👉 Redbird Ridge Estate offers calm, open-air spaces perfect for pets who need room to breathe and stay relaxed.
Logistics & Handling
Who’s responsible for your pet during the wedding?
Consider assigning a handler to take care of breaks, water, and bathroom needs.
How will timing work — when they appear, where they’ll rest, and when they’ll leave the celebration?
👉 Many Redbird Ridge couples hire a professional pet attendant for the day or enlist a trusted family member to help.
Safety Concerns
Watch out for hazards like toxic plants, decorations, confetti, alcohol, or food scraps that pets might ingest.
Consider the weather — provide shade and hydration if it’s hot, or a cozy spot if it’s cool or rainy.
👉 The estate’s outdoor areas include shaded spots and pet-safe pathways for easy planning.
Photography
What’s the best time to capture photos with your pet — before the ceremony, during a first look, or after guests arrive?
What should your pet wear? Choose cute but comfortable accessories like floral collars or bow ties.
👉 Photographers love working at Redbird Ridge for its natural lighting and wide-open backdrops that make pet portraits stunning.
If Your Pet Can’t Attend
Include them symbolically through framed photos, custom signage, cake toppers, or even a donation to an animal rescue in their name.
👉 Redbird Ridge couples often design “signature cocktails” or decor inspired by their pets — a sweet and stylish tribute.
Decor, Theme & Personal Touches
Add your pet’s image to your invitations, menus, or wedding signage.
Name your signature cocktail after your furry friend (“The Luna Lemonade” or “Charlie’s Cosmo”).
👉 Your event coordinators can help you weave these details into your design plan.
Cost & Vendor Coordination
Let vendors (florist, caterer, photographer) know about your pet so they can plan accordingly.
Budget for extras like treats, water bowls, pet accessories, or sitter services.
👉 At Redbird Ridge Estate, staff can recommend trusted local vendors experienced with pet-friendly weddings.
Guest Concerns
Consider guests with allergies or fears of animals.
Let everyone know in advance that pets will be part of the day so they can plan accordingly.
👉 The venue layout at Redbird Ridge allows for designated “pet zones,” so guests can comfortably enjoy the day.
Love, Loyalty, and a Little Bit of Fur
At Redbird Ridge Estate, pets aren’t just allowed — they’re celebrated. This pet-friendly wedding venue was designed for couples who want to honor every part of their family and create memories that include the joy, laughter, and unconditional love of their furry best friends. In fact, take some time during your stay and visit the owners’ mini donkey, goats, bunnies, hens, cat and dog.
So, whether your pet walks down the aisle, carries your rings, or simply curls up for a photo at sunset, your wedding at Redbird Ridge Estate will be as heartfelt as it is unforgettable.
Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 24 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.
Contact Us to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!
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