Welcoming Your Four-Legged Friend on Your Wedding Day
Photo courtesy of [v] imagery + design
Pet-Friendly Weddings at Hayvn at Hay River…
At Hayvn at Hay River, we know that family comes in all forms — and for many couples, that includes a beloved four-legged companion. If having your dog by your side is part of your vision for the day, you’ll be happy to know that Hayvn is a pet-friendly venue. Our relaxed, scenic setting makes it easy, natural, and stress-free to include your pet (or pets) in your celebration.
Whether you’re imagining your pup walking down the aisle, greeting guests during cocktail hour, or simply being part of your portraits, we welcome well-behaved pets and make it simple to involve them in your wedding day.
Why Couples Love Including Their Pets at Hayvn
Pets bring personality, warmth, and a genuine sense of home to a wedding. They play a meaningful role in your life, so including them in your wedding day feels natural. With wide-open fields, fresh air, flexible indoor/outdoor spaces, and safe areas to explore, Hayvn creates an ideal environment for couples who want their pets close by.
Couples choose to bring their pets because:
The outdoor setting is calming and comfortable for dogs.
Pets can participate in the ceremony, photos, and select portions of the day.
The natural backdrop creates beautiful, organic portraits with pets.
Guests love the unexpected joy pets add to the day.
We’re always happy to help you include these special companions.
How Our Pet-Friendly Policy Works
To make your day smooth and enjoyable, here’s how pet participation works at Hayvn:
Well-behaved pets may be unleashed during the ceremony if this makes their role easier or more natural.
Pets may also be unleashed for portraits in designated areas around the property.
Pets are welcome to stay for the full day, as long as they remain calm, safe, and under proper supervision.
A dedicated handler is required. This person should not be the couple or anyone with major wedding responsibilities. Their job is to manage walks, water, breaks, transitions, and any unexpected needs.
Bring any supplies your pet may need: water bowls, waste bags, treats, a leash, and comfort items.
These guidelines keep everyone — including your pet — comfortable throughout the celebration.
Tips to Make the Day Even Smoother
A bit of planning goes a long way in helping your pet feel relaxed and involved:
Choose the Right Handler
Since a handler is required, choose someone your pet trusts and who can focus solely on their comfort and safety throughout the day.
Bring Familiar Items
A favorite toy, blanket, or treat can make the experience more relaxing for your dog.
Build Pet Moments Into Your Timeline
Your handler can help guide your pet to and from the ceremony, photo sessions, and quieter areas between events.
Create a Photo Plan
Share your pet plans with your photographer so they can prepare locations and timing that work best.
Expect Happy Chaos
One of the joys of including pets is the unexpected. Embrace it — those candid moments often become some of the best memories.
Best Pet-Friendly Photo Spots at Hayvn
Hayvn offers several beautiful locations for photos with your pet:
Open countryside fields
The willow-lined east boundary as it matures
Barn exterior and rustic wood backdrop
Sunset views in the west field
Parlor entrance or loft balcony for more intimate portraits
Each spot provides natural light and comfortable space for pets to relax.
Why We Love Being a Pet-Friendly Venue
Pets bring out genuine emotion, laughter, and warmth — all things that make a wedding day feel personal and real. Allowing well-behaved pets throughout the day reflects the atmosphere we want couples to experience at Hayvn: welcoming, relaxed, and connected to the people (and animals) who matter most.
We’ve seen pets take on roles from ring bearers to greeters to quiet observers resting under the head table. These moments become unforgettable parts of the story.
Bringing Your Pet? Let’s Plan Together
If you’re considering including your pet in your wedding day, we’re happy to walk through details, timing, and any logistical needs with you. Every celebration is unique, and we’ll help you shape a plan that keeps your pet comfortable and ensures your day runs smoothly.
Reach out to learn more or to schedule your tour at Hayvn at Hay River.
Photo courtesy of [v] imagery + design