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At CJ's Off the Square, well-behaved dogs are welcome for wedding photos and ceremonies in our romantic garden setting just outside Nashville.
For many couples, a dog is part of the family. If you cannot imagine your wedding day without your pup by your side, you are not alone.
At CJ’s Off the Square, well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you for photos and your wedding ceremony. Our romantic garden setting in historic downtown Franklin is a beautiful place to include your dog in one of the most meaningful moments of your life.
Whether your dog walks down the aisle, joins you for portraits, or simply makes a quick appearance before the ceremony, there are many ways to make them part of your day without adding extra stress.
To help keep both your guests and your pet safe and comfortable, we ask all couples to follow a few simple guidelines.
Dogs are welcome for getting ready photos, portraits, first look photos, and the ceremony itself.
Because receptions can be loud and overwhelming, dogs are not allowed to stay for cocktail hour or the reception. Music, crowds, food, and alcohol can create a stressful environment for pets. We want your dog to be part of the special moments without becoming uncomfortable later in the evening.
After the ceremony, your dog should head home, return to a kennel, or leave with a sitter.
For the safety of your pet, your guests, and our vendor team, all dogs must remain on a leash at all times while on property. They cannot be left unattended at any time, even if they are in a secured in a crate.
If you plan to include your dog in your wedding day, you will need a dedicated person responsible for them throughout the event.
This person should bring your dog to the venue, stay with them during photos and the ceremony, and take them home afterward. We recommend choosing someone outside of your immediate family or wedding party so they can focus on your dog if needed.
Many couples choose to hire a professional wedding pet attendant or sitter for the day.
If you would like to include your dog in your wedding, please let your planner know ahead of time so we can help you create a smooth timeline and plan for logistics.
We also reserve the right to require a dog be removed from the property if they become stressed, aggressive, or disruptive.
Service animals are always welcome at CJ’s Off the Square.
A few simple ideas can help make the day easier:
Many couples find that a short appearance gives them the best of both worlds. Their dog is included in the most important moments, but they can still relax and enjoy the reception afterward.
No. Dogs are not allowed to stay for cocktail hour or the reception. We recommend having a friend, family member, or pet sitter take your dog home after the ceremony.
Yes. Dogs must remain on a leash at all times while on property.
Yes. We require a dedicated dog handler who is responsible for your pet throughout the day.
Absolutely. Many couples include their dog in getting ready photos, first look photos, ceremony photos, and family portraits.
Yes. Service animals are always welcome.
No. Dogs may not be left unattended anywhere on the property, even if they are secured in a crate.
CJ’s Off the Square is a romantic garden wedding venue just outside of Nashville. Couples love that they can include their dog in the ceremony while still enjoying an elegant, low-stress wedding day.
