The Best Dog-Friendly Wedding Venues in Virginia

If your dog is part of your family, then of course they should be part of your wedding day! Luckily, Virginia has plenty of dog-friendly wedding venues where your pup can join the celebration. In this guide, you’ll find some of the best pet-friendly venues in Virginia and helpful tips to make sure your furry friend is included in a stress-free way.

A few notes — most venues will allow you to bring dogs into outdoor spaces for portraits or even the ceremony. But a few (including the ones listed below) have additional amenities such as pet-friendly rooms, fenced dog runs or kennels to make it even easier to include your furry best friends.

Dog-Friendly Wedding Venues in Virginia

1. Sylvanside Farm (Purcellville, VA)

A historic horse farm with stunning rustic barns, open fields, and plenty of space for your pup to roam, Sylvanside Farm is a fantastic pet-friendly venue for an elegant yet relaxed wedding. They also offer heated and air-conditioned kennels, which, according to their website “offer a safe and comfortable place for your canine companions to relax when they’re not part of the action.” One of their cottages is pet-friendly.

2. The Indigo House (Afton, VA)

This intimate and eco-friendly venue is perfect for couples looking for a sustainable and dog-friendly wedding venue with beautiful mountain views. They pride themselves on being dog friendly (dogs stay for free) and have entire section on their website titled “for the dogs.”

3. Briar Patch Bed and Breakfast (Middleburg, VA)

A charming countryside venue with cozy accommodations, Briar Patch Bed and Breakfast welcomes couples who want to include their dogs in their special day. Their onsite rooms are dog friendly with a small additional fee.

4. Montfair Resort Farm (Crozet, VA)

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Montfair Resort Farm offers a scenic and dog-friendly environment with lakeside views and charming cottages. Some of their cottages are dog friendly as well.

5. Bellenger Farm (Purcellville, VA)

With its beautiful gardens, open meadows, 18th century farmhouse and a welcoming atmosphere, Bellenger Farm is a picturesque and pet-friendly choice for a Virginia wedding.

6. Prospect Hill Inn & Restaurant (Louisa, VA)

A historic manor house offering elegant outdoor ceremonies and receptions, Prospect Hill is a great option for couples who want a dog-friendly wedding with Southern charm. The bed and breakfast welcomes pets.

7. Rixey Manor (Rixeyville, VA)

A luxury wedding venue that prides itself on being pet-friendly, Rixey Manor allows dogs to be part of both indoor and outdoor wedding celebrations.

8. New Branch Farms (Smithfield, VA)

This beautiful, rustic venue provides a perfect setting for dog-friendly weddings, complete with scenic views and open spaces for your pup to enjoy. They even have a mini dog park for your fur-family!

9. The Market at Grelen (Somerset, VA)

With expansive orchards, gardens, and mountain views, The Market at Grelen is a breathtaking dog-friendly venue where your pup can be part of the celebration as long as they remain on-leash.

10. The Clifton Inn

The Clifton offers a stunning blend of historic charm and modern luxury, with beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces that are perfect for couples looking to include their pup in their celebration. With pet-friendly accommodations, this venue makes it easy for your dog to be part of the entire wedding weekend.

How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

1. Have Your Dog With You While Getting Ready

Your pup can provide comfort and companionship as you prepare for your big day. Make sure to bring their favorite toy, bed, and treats to keep them relaxed in the getting-ready space. If your venue doesn’t allow dogs inside then consider booking a pet friendly airbnb, VRBO or hotel so they can hang out with you while you are getting dressed.

2. Include Your Dog in Portraits

Your wedding portraits wouldn’t be complete without your four-legged friend! Whether they’re wearing a floral collar, a bowtie, or just being their adorable selves, having your dog in your photos will make them even more special. Consider bringing along a handler who can take your dog for breaks between shots.

3. Have Your Dog in the Ceremony

Many couples choose to have their dog walk down the aisle as a ring bearer or flower pup. If your dog is comfortable with crowds, this can be a heartwarming moment. Be sure to designate a trusted friend or pet sitter to handle them during the ceremony.

Tips for a Successful Dog-Inclusive Wedding

1. Make Sure Your Dog is Nice and Tired Beforehand

A tired dog is a happy dog! A long walk or play session before the ceremony can help burn off excess energy, keeping your pup calm and well-behaved throughout the day.

2. Bring High-Value Treats

Having your dog’s favorite treats on hand will help keep them engaged and cooperative during photos and key moments of the wedding.

3. Only Include Your Dog in Low-Stress Parts of the Day

Not every part of your wedding day is ideal for your pup. It’s best to include them in calm, structured moments like getting ready, portraits, and the ceremony rather than overwhelming them with the reception’s excitement.

4. Book Dog-Friendly Accommodations

If you’re staying overnight, be sure to book pet-friendly accommodations. Look for hotels, Airbnbs, or rental homes that explicitly allow dogs. Reading reviews and calling ahead to confirm pet policies can help avoid last-minute surprises.

5. Consider a Wedding Day Pet Sitter

A professional pet sitter can handle your dog’s needs throughout the day, allowing you to enjoy your wedding without worrying about bathroom breaks or stress management. If you’re having a destination wedding consider hiring someone off of Rover for the day.

6. Hire a Dog Handler for Portraits

Having a designated person to manage your dog during photos ensures they’re included in some shots without being in every single picture. A handler can also help keep them calm and out of the way when needed. This can either be a trusted friend or hired help from a site such as Rover.

Final Thoughts

Including your pup in your wedding day is a wonderful way to make your celebration even more meaningful. By choosing a dog-friendly wedding venue in Virginia and following these tips, you can create a stress-free experience for both you and your pup. Whether they’re walking down the aisle, posing for portraits, or simply offering moral support, your furry friend will be a cherished part of your special day!