If your dog is part of your family, you might picture your wedding day with them right by your side! Here are some of my favorite dog friendly SoCal wedding venues ready for your pup. ❤️

Mission Trails Regional Park (San Diego)

One of my favorite hidden gems for adventurous couples and elopements. Mission Trails offers sweeping views, peaceful trails, and beautiful golden hour light. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and it’s perfect for couples who want a relaxed vibe with their pup by their side. I love how this venue already has a staging area, so seats for your guests or choosing a ceremony spot is very effortless.

Balboa Park (San Diego)

Balboa Park is a versatile, dog friendly location, whether you’re doing an intimate ceremony or large celebration. There’s plenty of space, lots of shade, and endless photo ops with your pup. There are also several different ceremony – and reception – spaces to choose from. Given that, this venue is especially flexible for different budget and guest counts.

The Dana on Mission Bay (San Diego)

With waterfront views and relaxed resort energy, The Dana is a dreamy choice for dog lovers. They welcome pets during your ceremony and photo time, and the on-site lawn spaces make it easy to include your pup without added logistics.

BRICK (San Diego – Liberty Station)

This modern, industrial venue is a favorite for couples who want something nontraditional – and it’s surprisingly very dog friendly. If you’re looking for a blank slate canvas, this could be perfect for you and your pup(s)! There’s nearby outdoor space for walking your pup before and after the ceremony, and the open indoor area is perfect for portraits.

Idyllwild Weddings & Events (Idyllwild)

If you’re dreaming of a forest wedding, Idyllwild is a magical escape that allows dogs. Their mayor is literally a dog, so the town is pro-dog for sure. Think towering trees, cool mountain air, and a cozy, woodsy vibe that’s perfect for an intimate day with your pup(s).

The Ecology Center (San Juan Capistrano)

This eco-conscious farm venue is full of rustic charm and very relaxed vibes. They welcome pets during the ceremony and portraits, and the laid-back setting makes it ideal for a thoughtful, slow-paced dog friendly wedding in SoCal.

Leo Carrillo Ranch (Carlsbad)

Historic and full of character, this desert-style venue is pet friendly with advance notice. If you love charm, warm tones, and a little bit of the unexpected (like peacocks hanging out), this is a great spot to include your dog.

Malibu Solstice Vineyards (Malibu)

With panoramic ocean views and sophisticated styling, this is a stunning venue for couples planning a more upscale dog friendly SoCal wedding. Dogs are allowed for ceremonies and photo sessions, which are naturally amazing with the stunning views. Another perk of this location: you can stay on-site!

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe (North County SD)

This elegant inn blends Spanish architecture with blooming gardens and open lawns. They are very dog friendly and used to accommodating pups, making it a refined yet relaxed option for couples who want their wedding to feel timeless.

Tips for a Smooth Dog Friendly SoCal Wedding

✨ Assign a Dog Chaperone

Have a trusted person dedicated to your dog – someone who knows their temperament, can help manage their schedule (they have a big day too!), and knows where to take them when it’s time to leave. When including my dogs in my wedding, I picked close friends who the dogs trust to take them home during cocktail hour.

✨ Dress Them Comfortably

Go simple with a floral collar, neutral bandana, or soft leash in your wedding palette. Make sure they’re comfy and can move freely for their big walk down the aisle.

✨ Bring Water, Treats & Breaks

Plan moments in the day for your pup to hydrate, rest in the shade, or stretch their legs. Bring a portable bowl, some calming treats, and a cozy mat or bed they can chill on between photos.

✨ Know When They’ll Head Home

Most dog friendly venues in Southern California require pets to leave after the ceremony. Make sure your handler has transportation and a plan for a cozy, quiet place for them to relax after their big debut.

✨ Plan Their Entrance

Some couples choose to have their dog sit by them the entire ceremony, but you of course can do whatever feels right! Maybe the dogs want to run to you after vows or walk you down the aisle but then go sit with someone else. It’s up to you!

Planning a Dog Friendly SoCal Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that includes your dog – and celebrates your love story exactly as it is – you’re in the right place. I help couples plan timelines, scout pup-friendly photo spots, and create a calm, joy-filled space where everyone (pups included) can feel relaxed and fully present.

Ready to plan your dog friendly SoCal wedding? I’d love to capture it all. 🐾 Contact me here!