Wedding planning comes with its joys and hassles, especially when it comes to choosing which guests you want to invite to your celebration.
One couple, Stephen and Donna Juquiana, had it easy: They simply wanted their pet dogs to be in their ceremony held on Tuesday, Oct. 8, in Amadeo, Cavite.
The 25-year-old bride from Imus, Cavite, posted on a Facebook group for dog lovers her adorable wedding entourage, which consisted of the couple’s four dogs: Cyrus, a white Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix; Beeji, a black Shih Tzu Poodle mix; Maxxy, a gray-and-white Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix; and Moana, a brown Poodle.
Three of them—Cyrus, Beeji and Maxxy—were decked in pink neckties, while Moana was in a pink blouse with a ribbon. The charming pictures were taken by Arvin Simbulan Photography.
Donna told INQUIRER.net that the garden wedding with her dogs was possible because her mom knew the owner of the venue, Montvida Garden and Events Place, who allowed them to bring their dogs. The four pooches were also able to experience an overnight hotel stay.
When it came to the dogs’ role in the ceremony, the couple was worry-free thanks to their guests, who were familiar with the dogs. “It wasn’t [a] hassle for us because we had a lot of help from our friends and family, from taking care of the dogs the night before the wedding to the actual wedding day,” she said.
The dogs were also able to relax in a shaded area with water bowls before making their appearance at the wedding.
As for the highlights of her wedding—besides marrying the love of her life, of course—Donna said, “The best part for me was knowing that my dogs were a part of my entourage. Also, seeing them waiting for us as we walked down the aisle after the ceremony.”
After the wedding, which included picture-taking, the dogs were taken to the hotel to get some much-deserved rest. Donna explained that they also did not want to stress their dogs with the loudspeakers during the reception.
For couples who want to include their pets on their big day, Donna advises not to hold back: “Do it. You would only get married once and I know how important your fur babies are to you, so I suggest go for it. Let them walk down the aisle. Make them a part of your special day.” /ra
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