Local experts answer your questions SUSTAINABLE STYLE Q For our summer wedding we’re looking to be as sustainable as possible; what could we offer our guests that is eco-friendly, and fitting for the time of year. Bridal Box is an eco-friendly, sustainable wedding brand passionate about celebrating love while protecting the planet. We offer beautifully crafted seeded invitations that bloom into wildflowers and handmade paper invitations made from recycled cotton – perfect for couples who care about the details and the difference they make. For every paper invitation order, trees are planted to give back to the earth, helping your big day leave a lasting legacy of love and renewal – because we believe every beautiful beginning should also be a responsible one. Sarah & Michele, Bridal Box25 hello@bridalbox25.com | www.bridalbox25.com KEEPING THEM HAPPY Q We would like our pet pooches to celebrate our big day with us, but I’m worried how they will be for our August wedding, what do we need to do to ensure they’re well and safe? Your wedding day is a celebration of your love and for many couples that includes the unconditional love shared with their dog. An August wedding with the heat and excitement can pose risks for any dog, no matter how young or old. Here are some tips on how to ensure your dog is safe, happy, and ready to be a part of your big day... Prioritise your dog’s comfort in the heat Summer weddings can mean high temperatures and dogs are far more sensitive to heat than humans. Overheating is a real risk on a summer’s day, especially for brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Frenchies, but any breed of dog can overheat on a warm summer’s day. Tips to keep your dog cool on your wedding day: •Choose shaded areas for any part of the celebration that your dog will be involved in, especially during outdoor ceremonies or photo sessions. I carry a portable umbrella to use as a parasol and create shade for the dogs where there isn’t any. •Hydration is key, make sure there is fresh, cool water available. Portable water bottles and bowls are a must. Check with the venue staff where you can access fresh water and make sure there are water bowls available in the areas your dog will be accessing. •Cooling accessories like bandanas, vests, or mats can be bought at most pet shops, these can help regulate your dog’s body temperature. They can also be used in the car to keep your dog cool when transporting them to/from the venue. •Avoid walking your dog on hot surfaces like tarmac or paving stones, these can burn paws quickly. Always check with the ‘five-second rule’, if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. •If possible, limit your dog’s time outdoors, especially between 11am and 3pm. Try and plan their involvement in the celebrations during the cooler times of the day. •Have someone dedicated to caring for your dog, this will make sure that your dog is drinking regularly taking comfort breaks and kept in the shade as much as possible. •On any wedding day try and limit your dog’s involvement to the absolute minimum and allow them time to relax in a cool and quiet area of the venue. •Making sure there is a familiar blanket, bed and toy will help your dog to decompress from the excitement of the celebrations and have cool water available in their chill-out area. •If you are accessorising your dog on a hot summer’s day, choose something lightweight. Have a dress rehearsal at home; let your dog wear their outfit or collar accessory around the house in the days before the wedding to ensure they are happy and comfortable wearing it. Some dogs really don’t enjoy dressing up and a simple bowtie or floral collar can be just as sweet and your dog will thank you for it. •As tempting as it might be to keep your dog at your side all day, the reception is rarely a fun space for dogs. Plan for them to return home after their main role in the ceremony and photos is complete – and before the food arrives! Try and keep their routine as close to normal as possible. With thoughtful planning and an experienced handler to care for your dog, you can have the wedding day of your dreams and create precious memories with your beloved dog by your side. Nettie Brown, All Paws Weddings info@allpawsweddings | https://allpawsweddings.co.uk HOT TOPIC HOT TOPIC 51
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