Birds are deeply sensitive, intelligent companions—and for many couples, they’re just as much a part of the family as any dog or cat. But weddings can be overwhelming for feathered pets, especially with unfamiliar spaces, crowds and noise.
If your bird can’t be part of your celebration in person, there are still so many thoughtful ways to include them in spirit. Here are some of our favourite ideas.
1. Commission a custom illustration of your bird
A beautifully drawn portrait of your feathered friend is a touching and timeless way to include them throughout the day.
You can:
• Use the artwork on your wedding invitations or save the dates
• Include it in ceremony programs, menus or signage
• Frame it and place it near your welcome table or guestbook
It becomes a visual part of the celebration—and something you can keep forever.
2. Create a pet-inspired signature drink or menu item
A playful and light-hearted way to honour your bird is to incorporate their name or personality into your food or drink offerings.
Some couples choose to:
• Name a signature cocktail or mocktail after their bird
• Include a sign with a fun fact or story about their pet
• Add a feather icon or design element to their bar signage
It’s a conversation starter and a lovely nod to your companion.
3. Mention them in your vows or ceremony program
You can still acknowledge your bird in the more meaningful moments of the day—even if they’re not there.
Ways to do this include:
• Mentioning them in your vows as part of your shared life
• Including a note in the ceremony program or welcome speech
• Adding a short thank-you message or memory
It’s subtle, but incredibly meaningful—especially for couples who’ve shared many quiet mornings or life chapters with their bird.
4. Include feathers or bird-inspired details in your attire or styling
Small symbolic touches are a beautiful way to carry your bird with you throughout the day.
Ideas include:
• A preserved feather tucked into your bouquet or boutonnière
• A feather-print lining in your jacket or dress
• A charm, patch, or embroidery inside your gown or veil
These are low-profile tributes that carry deep personal meaning.
5. Include them in your thank-you cards and post-wedding memories
You can keep your bird in focus even after the wedding is over.
Some couples choose to:
• Add a tiny sketch of their bird on thank-you cards
• Sign cards from themselves and their feathered friend
• Share a post-wedding photo with their bird beside a wedding keepsake
• Include their photo in a printed wedding album or keepsake box
It’s a beautiful way to close the celebration with a personal touch.
Final thoughts
You don’t need to bring your bird to your wedding to honour the bond you share. In fact, choosing not to include them in person—out of love, caution, or practicality—can be one of the kindest decisions you make.
Symbolic gestures, personal tributes, and design details can ensure they’re still part of your story, in a way that’s safe, meaningful and completely unique to you.
Whether it’s a signature drink, a feather in your bouquet, or a portrait on your stationery—they’ll be there, in all the ways that matter most.