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FUR-EVER LOVE: HOW ANIMALS ARE STEALING THE SPOTLIGHT

At Abernethy Center, we’ve witnessed hundreds of love stories unfold across our beautiful gardens, ballroom, and chapel, and lately, many of those stories have included furry, feathered, or even hoofed guests of honor. Couples are finding more creative and heartfelt ways to make their weddings uniquely their own, and for many, that means including their beloved pets or incorporating animal-inspired touches. As we look toward the 2026 wedding season, this adorable and deeply meaningful trend continues to blossom across Oregon and beyond.


PHOTO CREDIT: INFALLIBLE PROOFS CO.
PHOTO CREDIT: INFALLIBLE PROOFS CO.

LOVE, LOYALTY, AND A LITTLE BIT OF FUR


For many couples, pets are family. Including them in your wedding, whether as a ring bearer, flower “dog,” or simply by featuring them in portraits, brings an authentic touch that nothing else can match. There’s something magical about a pup’s wagging tail as you walk down the aisle or a cat’s calm presence as you get ready with your bridal party. These moments are raw, joyful, and completely unforgettable.

Even for couples whose pets can’t attend, there are plenty of creative ways to honor them. Some design signature cocktails named after their pets, display charming illustrations on signage or menus, or include their likeness on wedding favors. Others lean into the beauty of nature by incorporating symbolic gestures, like a butterfly release during the ceremony or gentle alpaca visits during cocktail hour, always ensuring the experience is safe and comfortable for the animals involved.






HOW THE TREND FITS 2026 WEDDING STYLE


According to leading 2026 wedding trend forecasts, next year’s celebrations will center on authenticity, meaning, and sensory experiences. Couples are moving away from perfection and embracing heartfelt, story-driven moments that reflect who they truly are. Including animals, from beloved pets to graceful horses, fits beautifully within this trend, bringing warmth and personality to every celebration.

Couples are weaving their pets into décor, vows, and even attire, with touches like custom pet portraits or paw-print details that make guests smile. Western-inspired elements are also gaining momentum for 2026, blending rustic textures, soft neutrals, and the timeless elegance of horses to create celebrations that feel both authentic and unforgettable. For some couples, an equine presence in their photos or grand entrance adds a timeless, cinematic quality that feels both authentic and breathtaking.






A MORE MINDFUL CELEBRATION


Another major 2026 wedding trend is a focus on sustainability and intentional design. Couples are embracing eco-friendly florals, reusable décor, and locally sourced menus, and that same care extends to how they include animals. We encourage couples to consider their pet’s comfort and wellbeing when planning: having a trusted handler, providing quiet spaces, and limiting their involvement to certain moments of the day are thoughtful ways to ensure everyone enjoys the celebration.


For couples looking for professional pet care, our preferred vendor Wags & Garland offers exceptional wedding-day pet sitting across the Pacific Northwest. Their team ensures your furry friend is safe, happy, and part of your celebration, from walks and photo assistance to aisle appearances, so you can relax and enjoy every moment. Choosing ethical, welfare-conscious providers like Wags & Garland helps create a celebration centered on connection, comfort, and joy for everyone involved.






PICTURE-PERFECT MEMORIES


Visually, pets add warmth and personality to every photo. Imagine golden-hour portraits in our Abernethy Gardens, where your dog lounges by your feet as the sun filters through the trees, or a sweet moment on the chapel steps with your cat curled up in your lap. These images tell a story that’s unmistakably yours, one filled with love, laughter, and life.


As weddings continue to evolve, expect to see even more creative ways couples include their pets in 2026. We’re already seeing trends like “paw-signed” marriage certificates, coordinated pet attire, and custom pet-friendly dessert tables. Whether your celebration is a micro-wedding in Oregon’s natural beauty or a grand ballroom affair, animals add a sense of heart and authenticity that guests remember long after the day ends.


A CELEBRATION OF LOVE IN EVERY FORM


At its core, a wedding is about love, and that love often extends beyond two people. Including animals in your wedding, whether they walk down the aisle or simply inspire a few details, adds warmth and soul to your celebration. The 2026 wedding season will be all about individuality, authenticity, and meaningful experiences, and there’s no better way to express that than by sharing your day with the animals who make your world complete.


If you’re dreaming of a Portland-area wedding where love, nature, and heartfelt connection meet, Abernethy Center offers the perfect setting, filled with life, laughter, and a touch of animal magic.


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