We're getting married - Part 1 - We've organised the dogs and nothing else

So, if you know me and Martin you'll know we aren't the most organised human beings, when it comes to our own lives. We've been together for 15 years this year, and been engaged for 8 of those years. We've had 2 kids, bought a house, gained 3 dogs and had a variety of different small animals come and go in that time.

We booked Wennington Hall in February 2025, and have literally got no further (bar a pinterest folder) other than the all important discussion on what was happening with the dogs...

So for a little context, we have 3 border collies:

Luna - 6 years old, very sociable with every human and happy to settle in busy settings like cafes and pubs. Doesn't like beeping sounds, loud noises and isn't a fan of clapping or shouting.

Shelby - 9 years old, loves all humans, will sleep in dark places as she likes her own company. She doesn't appreciate shouting or clapping.

Eidur - Nearly 11 years old, loves all adults but hates kids with a passion (bar our own and one other friend of Charlotte's), is super well behaved and can perform lots of tricks. Gets a bit grumpy and snappy when he gets over tired.

From left to right: Luna, Shelby and Eidur posing for yet another photograph!

Now I'm telling you all this as it's actually really important. You need to consider your dog's limitations if they're going to the wedding, if they're happy you'll be happy. For example, Luna and Shelby probably won't want to be in the ceremony for long, they won't be happy if people start clapping and cheering (it well end with them barking and probably having a pop at each other), whereas Eidur will just sit and beg for attention from anyone that looks at him.

This is precisely why I will have a chaperone on hand, I don't want to be anticipating when the girls are going to have a breakdown, and who will be taking them out of the room when they inevitably start bickering (typical siblings!).

After the ceremony, the girls will happily socialise, this is where Eidur will be the issue. We have kids attending the wedding and Eidur is a grumpy old man and cannot be near them. He will need closely managing and will definitely need a break like any old man does!

The plan:

• Eidur will definitely be with me the night before where there will only be my kids to worry about, the girls may well be with Martin or my Dad.

• Chaperone will take over before the ceremony, mainly for Eidur to avoid any kids

• Ceremony (I'm keeping their roles secret for now, you'll have to read the next few blogs to see what I've decided to do)

• Drinks reception will probably mean they come with us two for some photos, then photos with the kids. They will then most likely go off for a rest.

• After the wedding breakfast they will most likely go for a walk round the grounds, be fed and then rest in the bedroom for a while. They will be worn out with all the craziness. Most likely from 9/10pm they will be crated and left to it like they would at home.

I've had to take in to account all 3 dogs differing personalities during the planning process, it hasn't been easy but I do feel more relaxed knowing my chaperone will keep an eye out for them. I'm also fortunate that I have several guests that adore them and know their annoying quirks!

As I get closer to the big day (Feb 2027 eek) I will post blogs about how I will prepare them, any training that I do (i can't stress enough how important a solid sit is), how I approach booking suppliers around the dogs being involved, a check list on what we will need on the day and anything else I think is relevant.

Here's to actually booking some suppliers by the next blog post...