How to Incorporate Custom Pet Art Into a Wedding (Without It Feeling Cheesy)
Pets are part of the family. The wagging tail when you walk in the door, the snuggles after a long day, the quiet companionship as you plan your biggest moments.
For many couples, their furry (or feathered!) friend holds just as much heart-space as their human guest list. So, what better way to honor that love than by weaving their pet into the wedding in a beautiful, tasteful way?
Custom pet portraits are no longer just reserved for Christmas gifts or gallery walls—they’re becoming one of the most beloved personal touches in luxury weddings. And the best part? They don’t have to feel kitschy. In fact, when done with intention and style, they can elevate the entire design.
Whether you’re a stationer, planner, or designer looking to surprise your couple—or a bride or groom hoping to include a four-legged friend—here’s how to do it with soul and sophistication.
The Signature Crest (with a Fluffy Twist)
Let’s start with the classic. A custom wedding crest already brings elegance and personalization to a suite—but add the couple’s golden retriever or tuxedo cat into the crest design, and suddenly it becomes theirs in a whole new way.
Think: nestled beside florals, perched at the base of the monogram, or tucked into the banner. It’s subtle. Charming. And guaranteed to get the guests whispering, “Oh my gosh, is that Bailey?!”
For planners: It’s a beautiful surprise to commission for your couple and reveal during the invitation reveal or styled shoot.
For stationers: It’s a moment to shine and offer high-touch customization that goes beyond ink and paper.
Signature Cocktail Signage (That’s Actually Adorable)
You’ve seen it: the signature cocktail sign featuring the couple’s pup with a drink pun. But here’s the thing—when done tastefully, it’s an absolute hit.
Instead of a stock image or quick caricature, incorporate a hand-illustrated portrait of the pet with custom calligraphy and the cocktail name. It can match the suite aesthetic (think: watercolor brushwork, soft neutral tones, and elegant type) while still bringing a little wink to the bar.
Bonus: Guests love this detail. It becomes one of the most-photographed elements of the reception, and couples often frame it later for their home.
Table Numbers & Escort Cards That Tell a Story
If the couple has more than one pet—or wants to feature their beloved bestie creatively—consider this: illustrated pet portraits as table identifiers.
Each table could be named after a nickname or trait ("Table Sir Barkalot"), with a matching portrait of the pet in different poses. Or, go minimalist and add a tiny illustrated paw print to each escort card corner. It’s storytelling with personality.
For stationers: this is your chance to tie every paper touchpoint together with consistent, thoughtful artwork.
For planners and designers: it’s a way to elevate a playful detail and keep it cohesive.
Ceremony Programs & Memorials with Meaning
Sometimes, the pet can’t be there physically. Maybe they passed recently. Maybe it’s a destination wedding. But their presence is still felt.
A custom portrait on the back of the ceremony program—alongside a sweet note or quote—is a heartfelt way to honor their place in the couple’s life. Or a memorial table with a framed illustration, florals, and a candle? Pure magic. It’s quiet. Respectful. And deeply moving.
This is where planners shine—curating a moment that feels intentional, not performative. And where artists (like me) come in to create something worthy of that memory.
Thank You Notes & Keepsake Gifts
After the wedding, a custom pet portrait can show up again—this time as part of a thank-you suite or framed favor for the couple. It can be paired with their crest, used on envelopes or custom stamps, or gifted as a fine art print for their new home.
It becomes not just a wedding detail, but a lifelong keepsake.
As a designer / stationer, this is a wonderful opportunity to offer an “after the aisle” heirloom gift that continues the love story beyond the big day.
Including pets in wedding design is a way to say, “This day is about our story. And our story includes them.”
When done thoughtfully, custom pet art becomes one of the most talked-about and treasured elements of the day. It’s not (just) about being cute. It’s about being true. And when something is true—it’s always timeless.