Black Dog Weddings Predicts: 2026 Wedding Trends We’re Loving
Every year in the wedding industry brings something new, and 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting! Couples are leaning into intentionality, personalization, and meaningful experiences, and yes, we’re seeing wedding dogs becoming an even bigger part of the celebration (and we are so totally here for it).
I love a good list so here are the trends that we predict will take over the 2026 wedding season and of course - paws are included.
1. Small Wedding Parties (Or No Wedding Party at All!)
We’re seeing a major shift toward smaller wedding parties, and honestly? I love it. Some couples are choosing one or two VIPs, while others are opting out of a wedding party altogether. The Black Dog Weddings favourite version: the couple’s dog is the wedding pawty. This trend creates a more intimate, relaxed experience and gives your pup a starring role without the pressure of coordinating numerous people (which sometimes can feel like herding cats).
2. Fewer Guests, Bigger Experiences
Guest counts are going down, but experiences are going waaay up. Couples want weddings that feel like “them,” and that means curated food moments, signature cocktails, and menus built around comfort favourites. We’re seeing couples choose nostalgic dishes, family recipes, or fun food stations that feel personal and meaningful. A smaller crowd means more time with the people you love and more space to let your dog join in without overwhelm. A win all around!
3. Tussie-Mussie Bouquets (With a Modern Twist)
I recently completed an evening flower design course with Elaine Martin at Cambridge School of Flowers and collectively we were discussing 2026 wedding floral trends - and I was mesmerized by the “Tussie-Mussie” and realized I had already seen it pop up with some of our 2025 weddings.“Tussie-mussie” may sound like a funny phrase, but trust us - they’re gorgeous!!! Traditionally, a tussie-mussie refers to a small, hand-tied bouquet filled with fragrant florals. For 2026, we’re seeing tiny, highly curated bouquets made of premium, visually impactful blooms.
Bonus perk: if your bridesmaid is walking your pup down the aisle, a smaller bouquet makes for much easier handling while keeping your dog at a beautiful heel for a pawfect aisle walk.
4. Dog Boutonnières Over Floral Collars
A trend we’re thrilled to see gaining momentum: dog boutonnières.
These are small, charming floral accents that attach directly to your dog’s collar rather than full floral arrangements. They’re perfect for pups who aren’t used to dressing up - understated, lightweight, and incredibly cute. This trend lets dogs match the wedding aesthetic without discomfort or fuss.
Piper putting her best paw forward on her pawrent’s wedding day at Timber Barn in St.Jacobs, she’s modeling a really lovely wedding dog boutonniere with a matching white harness.
5. The Pup’s Stamp of Approval
This trend has been popular in the UK and Australia for years, and now Canadian couples are embracing it too - dogs adding their actual paw print to marriage licenses or certificates. It’s such a sweet way to include your pup in the moment that starts your married life. Want to try it? Look up mess-free ink pads on Amazon and practice your pup’s “shake a paw” before the big day!
At the end of the day, the biggest trend of all is that couples are making wedding days their own. Tradition is no longer a rulebook - it’s an inspiration point. Weddings are becoming deeply personal, elevated, joyful experiences that reflect who you are, what you love, and who you’re inviting into your next chapter (paws included).
As always, Black Dog Weddings is here to help your pup’s role feel seamless, safe, and joy-filled - no matter what new trends the wedding world dreams up next.
Give your pups some belly rubs from me.
Cheers, Ash
