Top tips for having your horse at your wedding

For lots of us, being able to have our horse at our wedding is a dream come true!

Before tying the knot with your noble steed in attendance, however, there’s plenty to consider. So, explore our top tips for having your horse at your wedding, and make it the most magical day of your life…

Choose a horse-friendly venue

It may seem obvious, but it’s essential to double-check that your wedding venue of choice is horse-friendly and offers suitable space for your horse. Plus, more importantly, you should ensure there are resources available for your horse (like somewhere quiet to graze, for example), so they’ll be comfortable at your chosen wedding venue. 

Visit the venue with your horse before the big day (if possible)

One of the best ways to reassure yourself that your horse will be happy spending time at your chosen venue, is to take them there before your wedding. That way, you’re helping your horse feel comfortable in those surroundings, ahead of a busy day packed with potential ‘spooking triggers’ (e.g. flowing wedding dress, confetti, loud noises, etc.).  

Check the weather beforehand

Another aspect to consider when choosing the perfect horse-friendly venue for your wedding is to have an idea of the weather conditions you should expect on the day. Each venue will have their own rules and regulations when welcoming horses during certain weather conditions – like heavy rain, snow, high winds, etc. So, it’s worth remembering that there’s a chance your horse won’t be able to attend your wedding if weather conditions cause the venue to become unsafe for them.

Decide what role your horse will play on the day

Do you envisage yourself riding your horse down the aisle, towards your almost-husband or wife? Are you hoping your horse will be forever present in the memories of your special day, by including them in the wedding photoshoot? Or did you want your family pony to deliver your wedding rings during the ceremony?

Deciding exactly how you want your horse to be included in your wedding, as far in advance as possible, is crucial! The ways you intend your horse to be part of your big day will determine the training you’ll need to complete beforehand, as well as who you’ll need to help. 

Prepare your horse ahead of your wedding day 

Depending on the ways in which you want your horse to be included in your wedding, you’ll have to prepare them for what to expect on the day. For instance, you might want to:

• Train your horse to stay calm while their rider wears a long, flowing dress.
• Set up a ‘trial run’, e.g. make sure your horse doesn’t spook when confetti is thrown nearby or cameras flash around them.
• Help your horse get used to being surrounded by large groups of people wanting to give them lots of attention.
• Just in case the venue ends up being busier than expected, support your horse to feel confident around loud noises.
• Test out different types of mane and tail plaits (perhaps to match the bride’s chosen hairstyle?).  

Designate someone as horse carer for the day

Something you won’t want to worry about, amidst the bustle of your wedding day, is bathing your horse in your suit, or cleaning up after them in your wedding dress! So, ask someone who has plenty of equestrian experience to take care of your horse before, during, and after your wedding, to help the day run as smoothly as possible. 

Make sure your horse avoids potentially harmful food and other hazards 

The person who cares for your horse on your wedding day must be reminded of any risks that should be taken into account. For example, keeping potentially toxic items out of your horse’s reach (like floral bouquets containing poisonous plants) and being mindful of decorations that could cause your horse to spook.

Did your horse get involved in your wedding day? Are you a wedding professional (e.g. photographer) who frequently works with horses at weddings? If so, please get in touch to share your story and advice with our followers via Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok!